CrossFit workouts come in many forms, but one type stands out for its unique significance and purpose: Hero WODs. These workouts, named after fallen military, law enforcement, and first responder heroes, hold a special place in the CrossFit community. In this post, we'll delve into the meaning behind Hero WODs and why they are an integral part of our CrossFit gym culture.

What Are Hero WODs?

Hero WODs are CrossFit workouts dedicated to honoring the memory and sacrifice of individuals who have given their lives in service to their country or community. Each Hero WOD is named after a specific hero and typically includes challenging movements and rep schemes designed to push athletes to their limits.

Why Do We Do Hero WODs?

Honoring Sacrifice: Hero WODs serve as a tribute to the ultimate sacrifice made by these heroes. By performing these workouts, we honor their memory and pay our respects to their bravery and selflessness.

Building Community: Participating in Hero WODs fosters a sense of camaraderie and unity within the CrossFit community. We come together to support one another, push through challenging workouts, and remember the heroes we are honoring.

Physical and Mental Challenge: Hero WODs are often intense and demanding, pushing athletes out of their comfort zones both physically and mentally. By tackling these challenging workouts, we build resilience, mental toughness, and character.

Gratitude and Perspective: Hero WODs remind us of the freedoms we enjoy and the sacrifices made by others to protect those freedoms. They provide perspective and gratitude for the privileges we have and inspire us to live with purpose and gratitude.

Raising Awareness: Performing Hero WODs raises awareness about the individuals they honor and the causes they represent. It allows us to share their stories and keep their legacies alive.

Some well-known Hero WODs include:

"Murph": Named after Navy Lieutenant Michael Murphy, who was killed in action in Afghanistan. This workout consists of a one-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 air squats, followed by another one-mile run, all while wearing a weighted vest.

"DT": Dedicated to Timothy Davis, a member of the U.S. Air Force who was killed in action in Afghanistan. This workout includes five rounds of 12 deadlifts, 9 hang power cleans, and 6 push jerks with a barbell.

"Badger": Named in honor of Navy Chief Petty Officer Mark Carter, who died in a training accident. This workout consists of three rounds of 30 squat cleans, 30 pull-ups, and 800-meter runs.

Hero WODs hold a special significance in the CrossFit community, serving as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our heroes and the values they stood for. By participating in these workouts, we honor their memory, build community, challenge ourselves, and gain perspective on what it means to live with courage and purpose. As we push through the physical and mental challenges of Hero WODs, we carry their legacies forward and ensure that they are never forgotten.