One climb can echo 343 heroes. That’s what the 9/11 Workout Challenge means to me—sweat, respect, and a reminder that fitness can carry more than muscle.
This September, like every year, I laced up for the memorial workout. I’m a vet-turned-runner, and this tradition has become my way of paying tribute. It’s not just exercise; it’s a ritual of remembrance.
The Core of the 9/11 Challenge
Most people know the stair climb: 110 flights, or roughly 2,200 steps—the same height as the Twin Towers. Some take it outside on stadium stairs, others on a StairMaster. Another option is the Hero WOD that’s been circulating for years:
2001m run
9 rounds of 11 reps (box jumps, cleans, handstand push-ups)
Finish with a 2001m row
Some go weighted, with a vest or even firefighter gear, to really feel the burden.
Reviews from the Community
Talk to anyone who’s done it—r/crossfit threads, memorial events, even local gyms—and the words are the same: brutal but meaningful. People report finishing in 40–60 minutes, drenched in sweat, sometimes in tears.
For firefighters, vets, or anyone connected to that day, it’s catharsis. Every rep carries a name, every step a memory.
My 2025 Challenge Story
I don’t have stadium stairs nearby, so I did my home stairwell—10 rounds up and down to hit the 110. My legs shook, but repeating names of fallen first responders gave me strength. Then I added the WOD, scaling the handstand push-ups.
Finished exhausted, but oddly calm. Protein shake, long stretch, and a quiet sit on the porch wrapped it up.
Scaling & Safety
This isn’t a workout you just jump into. Beginners often cut the reps in half, or swap in step-ups for jumps. Hydration is critical. And honestly? The mental prep is as important as the physical. I made a playlist of anthems that carried me through the toughest moments.
Why It Matters
For me, it’s about honoring sacrifice while pushing myself to grow. It’s a workout, yes—but it’s also a memorial march, a way of saying “never forget” with action.
So here’s my ask: Have you tried the 9/11 Workout Challenge?
What version did you do—stairs, Hero WOD, or both?
Vest or no vest?
How long did it take you?
Did you dedicate your climb to someone specific?
Share your stories, times, playlists, or even just your thoughts. This thread can be our digital memorial wall—sweat and words together.
This September, like every year, I laced up for the memorial workout. I’m a vet-turned-runner, and this tradition has become my way of paying tribute. It’s not just exercise; it’s a ritual of remembrance.
The Core of the 9/11 Challenge
Most people know the stair climb: 110 flights, or roughly 2,200 steps—the same height as the Twin Towers. Some take it outside on stadium stairs, others on a StairMaster. Another option is the Hero WOD that’s been circulating for years:
2001m run
9 rounds of 11 reps (box jumps, cleans, handstand push-ups)
Finish with a 2001m row
Some go weighted, with a vest or even firefighter gear, to really feel the burden.
Reviews from the Community
Talk to anyone who’s done it—r/crossfit threads, memorial events, even local gyms—and the words are the same: brutal but meaningful. People report finishing in 40–60 minutes, drenched in sweat, sometimes in tears.
For firefighters, vets, or anyone connected to that day, it’s catharsis. Every rep carries a name, every step a memory.
My 2025 Challenge Story
I don’t have stadium stairs nearby, so I did my home stairwell—10 rounds up and down to hit the 110. My legs shook, but repeating names of fallen first responders gave me strength. Then I added the WOD, scaling the handstand push-ups.
Finished exhausted, but oddly calm. Protein shake, long stretch, and a quiet sit on the porch wrapped it up.
Scaling & Safety
This isn’t a workout you just jump into. Beginners often cut the reps in half, or swap in step-ups for jumps. Hydration is critical. And honestly? The mental prep is as important as the physical. I made a playlist of anthems that carried me through the toughest moments.
Why It Matters
For me, it’s about honoring sacrifice while pushing myself to grow. It’s a workout, yes—but it’s also a memorial march, a way of saying “never forget” with action.
So here’s my ask: Have you tried the 9/11 Workout Challenge?
What version did you do—stairs, Hero WOD, or both?
Vest or no vest?
How long did it take you?
Did you dedicate your climb to someone specific?
Share your stories, times, playlists, or even just your thoughts. This thread can be our digital memorial wall—sweat and words together.
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