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Thompson HERO WOD

Honoring U.S. Army Capt. David J. Thompson

An extremely leg-intensive workout with 10 rounds of rope climbs, 29 back squats, and barbell farmers carries.

The Workout

  • 1 Rope Climb to 15 feet (begin seated on floor)
  • 29 Back Squats (95/65 lb)
  • 10m Barbell Farmers Carry (135/95 lb)
  • Repeat for 10 rounds

Time Cap

45 minutes

Rx Standards

Men (Rx)

95 lb back squat, 135 lb farmers carry

Women (Rx)

65 lb back squat, 95 lb farmers carry

Equipment Needed

Rope
Barbell
Squat rack

Recommended Gear

  • Knee sleeves (essential for 290 squats)
  • Wrist wraps
  • Chalk
  • Belt (for squats and carries)
  • Long socks or shin guards (for rope climbs)

Strategy Overview

This workout features 290 total back squats, making it one of the most leg-intensive Hero WODs. The rope climbs and farmers carries add grip and full-body fatigue. Pacing the squats is absolutely critical.

Honoring a Hero

In honor of U.S. Army Capt. David J. Thompson, 39, of Hooker, Oklahoma, commander of ODA 3334, who was killed on January 29, 2010, while supporting combat operations in Afghanistan. Survived by wife Emily, daughters Isabelle and Abigail, parents Charles and Freida, and sister Alisha Mueller. The 29 reps honor his age.

"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." - John 15:13

Quick Tips for Success

1

The 29 back squats honor Captain Thompson's age

2

This is one of the most leg-intensive Hero WODs

3

Chalk heavily for rope climbs

4

Keep squat depth consistent across all rounds