Some Gave All

With Memorial Day upon us - and many gearing up for a day of drinking and cookouts - we thought it best to touch upon the reason it’s a national holiday: those who sacrificed all for America. One of the Patriots that deserve recognition is Michael P. Murphy - aka Murph. Have you heard of him? If not - it’s time to learn something about our soldiers. Let’s get into this…

Memorial Day is more than just barbecues and parades…

It's a time to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. America has a long history of people laying down their lives for freedom - not just their own - but for those generations that come after them. 

While I never served, I’ve had somebody in my family fight in every war America has been involved with since the War of Independence all the way through Desert Storm. I think it’s in any American’s DNA to want to fight for the God-given rights that were bestowed upon us - and protected by the US Constitution. 

We are a nation of rebels…

The first immigrants that came to the US from Europe came with nothing but a dream of freedom. A freedom of religion, yes… but the freedom to also own your own land and home. To do what you want to provide for your family - rather than being told what you can and can’t do. 

We don’t like when people tell us what to do… 

There’s something inherent in us that makes us want to stand up and shoot that person the proverbial middle finger and yes, “F**K YOU!” - and the men and women that protect our right to do just that very thing - deserve our utmost respect. That being said, one of these that deserves this respect is the true patriot that we’ll be talking about today: 

Navy SEAL, Michael P. Murphy. 

A Hero Amongst Heroes

Murph, as his comrades called him, was a true American hero… 

In June 2005, during Operation Red Wings - Murphy and his team found themselves under heavy enemy fire. Displaying incredible grit, bravery and incredible set of brass ones - during combat in Afghanistan, Murphy exposed himself to enemy fire to get a clear signal for a distress call that ultimately saved his remaining team members. In saving his friends and team members - he paid the ultimate price. For his selfless actions, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

This is the stuff of legends…

And while people do their best to keep this man’s memory alive - the fitness community has found an incredible way to keep this man’s name, life and sacrifice in the public’s eye through the creation of a workout that could only befit a true American hero. 

The Murph Workout has become a tradition in the fitness community - especially on Memorial Day - to honor Murphy's legacy and the sacrifices of all fallen service members. The workout is straightforward but incredibly challenging - embodying the grit and determination of Murphy himself. 

Here's what it entails:

1-Mile Run

100 Pull-Ups

200 Push-Ups

300 Squats

1-Mile Run

And if you're up for the ultimate test - complete the entire workout while wearing a 20 lb. vest or body armor - just like Murphy did.

Do You Have What It Takes? 

Approaching this workout requires not only physical strength but mental toughness. 

It's a true test of endurance and a perfect way to honor the spirit of Memorial Day. The Murph Challenge isn’t just about personal fitness goals - it's about remembering and honoring the men and women who have served our country.

For many, completing the Murph Workout is a solemn ritual… 

It's an opportunity to push oneself to the limit while reflecting on the sacrifices of our military heroes. The pain and exhaustion you feel during the workout are reminders of the immense bravery and sacrifice of people like Michael Murphy.

So this Memorial Day - whether you're a seasoned athlete or a fitness newbie - consider taking on the Murph Challenge. It's a powerful way to commemorate the true meaning of the holiday… 

By paying tribute to the fallen while celebrating the freedom they fought to protect. Remember, it's not about how fast you finish - it's about giving it your all and honoring those who gave everything.

Afterwards, feel free to join the party…

Feel free to down a couple of cold ones and a few hot dogs - but the fact is,  Memorial Day isn’t a day of celebration - it’s a day of remembrance and reflection. 

We are the lucky ones…

We’re the ones that get to lay our heads down on our pillows at night - knowing there are people like Michael Murphy out there. People who are willing to lay their very lives on the line to ensure we not only get to rest easily and safe…

But we get to wake up free. 

God bless our troops…

And God bless the United States. 

Happy Memorial Day

"Better to fight for something than live for nothing." - George S. Patton