Training pathway

Classic CrossFit Hero WODs

Timeless CrossFit benchmark Hero WODs that every athlete should know

Workouts

Train the right classic crossfit hero wods for today.

The fastest way to better performance is to select a version of the work that you can execute with good movement and useful intensity.

Hero WOD

Murph

Honoring Navy Lieutenant Michael Murphy

Extreme

The most famous and challenging HERO WOD in CrossFit, performed on Memorial Day worldwide. This workout honors Navy Lieutenant Michael Murphy, who was killed in Afghanistan on June 28, 2005.

Workout

  • 1 mile Run
  • 100 Pull-ups
  • 200 Push-ups
  • 300 Air Squats
  • 1 mile Run
Pull-up barRunning route or treadmill20lb/14lb weighted vest (Rx)Cross-training shoes

Difficulty

9/10

Time cap

60 minutes

Strategy: Murph requires strategic pacing and movement breakdown. The key is managing the 600 total bodyweight reps while preserving energy for both mile runs. Equipment choice significantly impacts performance - avoid weightlifting shoes for this workout.

Hero WOD

JT

Honoring Petty Officer 1st Class Jeff Taylor

Hard

A classic CrossFit HERO WOD focused on upper body pushing strength with handstand push-ups, ring dips, and push-ups.

Workout

  • 21-15-9 reps for time of:
  • Handstand Push-ups
  • Ring Dips
  • Push-ups
RingsWall space for HSPU

Difficulty

7/10

Strategy: This is a push-dominant workout. Manage muscle fatigue and break up sets early.

Hero WOD

Jerry

Honoring Sgt. Major Jerry D. Patton

Hard

A simple but tough endurance HERO WOD: run, row, run.

Workout

  • 1 mile Run
  • 2,000m Row
  • 1 mile Run
RowerRunning route

Difficulty

7/10

Strategy: This is a pure engine test. Find a sustainable pace and stick to it.

Hero WOD

DT

Honoring Air Force Staff Sergeant Timothy Davis

Hard

A barbell complex that tests grip endurance and technical lifting under fatigue.

Workout

  • 12 Deadlifts (155/105 lb)
  • 9 Hang Power Cleans (155/105 lb)
  • 6 Push Jerks (155/105 lb)
  • Repeat for 5 rounds
BarbellPlates

Difficulty

8/10

Time cap

25 minutes

Strategy: Barbell cycling efficiency and grip management are key. Don't drop the bar unnecessarily.

Hero WOD

Badger

Honoring Navy Petty Officer Second Class Mark Carter

Extreme

A high-skill workout combining Olympic lifting with gymnastics movements.

Workout

  • 30 Squat Cleans (95/65 lb)
  • 30 Pull-ups
  • 800m Run
  • Repeat for 3 rounds
BarbellPlatesPull-up barRunning route

Difficulty

9/10

Time cap

40 minutes

Strategy: Balance technical lifting with gymnastics endurance while managing fatigue for the runs.

Hero WOD

Nutts

Honoring Army Staff Sergeant Christopher Nutt

Hard

A deadlift-focused workout that challenges posterior chain strength and endurance.

Workout

  • 10 Handstand Push-ups
  • 15 Deadlifts (250/160 lb)
  • 25 Box Jumps (30/24 in)
  • 50 Pull-ups
  • 100 Wall Balls (20/14 lb)
BarbellHeavy platesHigh boxPull-up bar

Difficulty

8/10

Time cap

45 minutes

Strategy: Heavy deadlifts early will impact everything else. Pace accordingly and prioritize form.

Keep the purpose

The workout is only useful when the stimulus is right.

Build the foundation first, scale deliberately when required, and return to benchmarks with a stronger movement base and a clearer pacing plan.