Happy Memorial Day, Kru! Memorial Day in the CrossFit community is generally recognized as the day we honor Lt. Michael P. Murphy by doing a workout he did often. He called the workout “Body Armor” and is more commonly known as “Murph” With our current situation, things will be a little different this year.
“Murph”
1 Mile Run
100 Pull Ups
200 Push Ups
300 Air Squats
1 Mile Run
In memory of Navy Lieutenant Michael Murphy, 29, of Patchogue, N.Y., who was killed in Afghanistan June 28th, 2005. This workout was one of Mike’s favorites and he’d named it “Body Armor”. From here on it will be referred to as “Murph” in honor of the focused warrior and great American who wanted nothing more in life than to serve this great country and the beautiful people who make it what it is.
How it works this time:
There will be no partitioning of reps (no 5/10/15, 10/20/30, only straight up Murph). When you get tired, REST! Shake out your arms, grab some water, catch your breath. You’re going to be at this for a while and that’s fine. Do NOT go to failure on your movements.
If you have a weighted vest, ruck or backpack with weight, use it. If you have a sandbag, bring it for the runs (if you have a vest and a sandbag, bring it all for the run)
If you do not have a pull up bar, rings, or a place to do any modification for pull ups, you will be doing seated strict presses (approximately 75/55 or a moderately heavy weight) or 400 sit ups after 300 squats.
If you haven’t been working out or are nervous about the volume, modify to a half “Murph” which is half the reps of everything or ask a coach.
Some homework:
This workout is in honor of your loved ones or someone that you respect that have served the U.S. and have lost their lives. Military, police, firefighters etc. Get a small U.S. flag and a make a nametag with the person you are honoring. On your last run. Run to a public park, plant your flag and leave the nametag. Post a picture and a few words for their memory. Don’t track your time, just work hard in their honor. If you don’t have a flag but still want to share, we would love to hear your story