A hero workout of the day (WODs) aka Hero WOD is a workout tribute specifically to a fallen soldier, member of the military, and/or first responder. The workout is usually harder and longer than most programmed workouts in functional fitness and CrossFit gyms alike. The reason? To show tribute and respect to the work, dedication, and labor that the fallen hero gave to our country to protect and defend our freedoms. In this article, we're highlighting Hero WOD "RJ".
Remembering Sergeant Major Robert J Cottle
Veteran LAPD officer and United States Marine Corps Reservist Sergeant Major Robert J Cottle was age 45 when he was killed on March 24th, 2010. Cottle, often called “RJ”, is survived by his wife and his daughter (9 months at the time). His death came from an improvised explosive device (roadside bomb) while on patrol, which also claimed the life of another Marine. The event took place in Southern Afghanistan. He was a 20-year LAPD veteran and member of the SWAT team. He served two tours of duty in the middle east and was killed when he returned for his third. [R] SSgt Major Robert J Cottle “was a loyal American who volunteered and fought valiantly”.
Hero WOD "RJ"
Originally posted by CrossFit as the WOD for June 22, 2010 (#100622), the Hero WOD “RJ” stands in memory of SSgt Major Robert J Cottle who’s selfless service to our country will be remembered. This workout includes running, rope climbs, and push-ups.
5 ROUNDS FOR TIME:
800 Meter Run
5 Rope Climbs (15ft)
50 Push-Ups
Why Do We Do Hero WODs
While the main focus of the workout is often to pay tribute, respect, and remembrance to the fallen hero, hero WODs are also a great test of physical ability and performance capacity. Not only are you going to enter into the workout experiencing great physical tests, but you’re also going to cross barriers between the body, the mind, emotions and experience. You might cry, you might scream, you might bleed even, but with a deeper connection to the workout and the ‘why’, you give tribute one grueling rep at a time.
Never Forget
If there are two things we love, it’s CrossFit and our military, first responders, and all the selfless individuals on the front lines. Please join us as we remember United States Marine Corps Reservist Sergeant Major Robert J Cottle alongside our box mates.
