Murph, Muscle, and Mission: How One Memorial Day Workout Fueled a Movement
Coach Steven & Rinaldi
The morning of Memorial Day dawned cool and clear as dozens gathered at CrossFit Whittier, ready to honor our fallen heroes. Sweat dripped, hearts pounded, and determination shone in every face. But beyond the intense physical effort, something even more powerful was happening—our community was coming together, fueled by purpose.
Why Fitness Matters for Veteran Reintegration
Physical fitness isn’t just about strength or endurance—it’s therapy, it’s community, it’s a lifeline. For veterans navigating the transition from military to civilian life, staying physically active can ease anxiety, build camaraderie, and rekindle purpose.
Memorial Day Murph – More Than Just a Workout
The Murph workout—a grueling test consisting of a one-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 air squats, and another one-mile run, often done with a weighted vest—serves as a poignant tribute to Lieutenant Michael Murphy and all who made the ultimate sacrifice.
CrossFit Whittier wasn’t just a gym that day—it transformed into a community hub buzzing with energy, commitment, and collective purpose. Participants of all backgrounds came together, sharing stories, encouragement, and the spirit of giving back.
How Reign Total Body Fuel Amplified the Energy
Thanks to our partnership with Reign Total Body Fuel, participants experienced a burst of sustained energy, excitement, and camaraderie. Reign’s involvement was more than just sponsorship—it symbolized the vitality and resilience veterans bring to our communities.
One participant laughingly remarked, “Reign kept me pushing through when I thought I had nothing left.” This echoed throughout the day—a testament to how sponsorships can transform an event into an unforgettable community experience.
MURPH 2025 BY THE NUMBERS:
🧍♂️ 200+ Participants
🎟️ 100+ Raffle Entries
💥 $1200 Raised for Veteran Programs
🥤 300+ Reign Fuel Cans Served
One Veteran. One Murph. One Life Changed.
“This isn’t just about fitness,” said John, a Marine Corps veteran who completed Murph for the first time. “It’s about recognizing sacrifice, building community, and knowing that our struggles and triumphs matter.”
John, who discovered The Rinaldi Project through a local outreach post, admitted he almost didn’t show up that day. But the moment he walked in, he was greeted by smiles, a cold can of Reign, and a room filled with purpose. After completing the final run—shoulders burning and lungs on fire—he didn’t feel broken. He felt seen.
“It reminded me of why we serve. And why it matters that someone’s still fighting for us on the other side.”
Ongoing Commitment
Collaborations like these remind us how powerful our combined strength truly is. The Rinaldi Project, CrossFit Whittier, and Reign Total Body Fuel came together not just for one day, but to ignite lasting change.
The Murph may be one day—but your impact can last a lifetime.
Want to fuel the next mission? Donate, volunteer, or learn more here.
(Check out our teaser video below.)