Yesterday I participated in the 31 Heroes WOD (workout of the day). 31 Heroes is a CrossFit partner WOD that is in honor of the 31 heroes of Extortion 17 who lost their lives on August 6, 2011 when their Chinook helicopter was downed in Afghanistan.
The 31 Heroes WOD is a 31 minute AMRAP (As Many Rounds As Possible) of eight thrusters, six rope climbs, and eleven box jumps. While one partner runs 400 meters, the other partner works through the rep scheme. Once the running partner returns, they switch places continuing on the reps where the previous partner left off.
As the 8:00 am class time rolled around, the gym began to fill up with participants. The weather was overcast and humid with temperatures in the 80s (Fahrenheit). I teamed up with my friend Audrey and we completed twelve rounds in the 31 minute time allotment. This workout was challenging yet rewarding. As we pushed hard through each round, Coach Fern was there to encourage and cheer us on with every movement. The gym was packed with participants so there were plenty of fist bumps and high-fives to go around afterwards.
This is more than a workout. It is time to remember the fallen, who gave the ultimate sacrifice so we can enjoy the freedoms of today.
“This will remain the land of the free so long as it is the home of the brave.” –Elmer Davis
Everyday Athlete Travels 