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“Chad”

 Author: Karie Patzer

#CHAD1000X #veteransday #herowod #suicideawareness #CurrentTrained

The ongoing pandemic which started in 2020 opened our eyes. It opened our eyes to everyone’s struggles. Mental health is equally as important as your physical health. The workout “Chad” became the Veteran’s day hero WOD of choice to move with your community, even if we couldn’t be together. It shows that you are never alone. It shows that we are moving for the greater good. It shows that we will do what we can to be seen and raise awareness of veteran suicide. 

Chad Wilkinson

On October 29, 2018 Chad took his own life. Chad served our country for 22 years on active duty. On December 14, 2018, CrossFit Games Director, Dave Castro @thedavecastro posted this workout in memory of Wilkinson, who was a friend. Castro said, “A few weeks ago we lost an American hero. A friend of mine and someone I worked with when I was in the Navy. At his funeral his wife mentioned that he did 1,000 step ups for time with a 45 pound pack on a 20” box to train for climbing Mt Aconcagua. Tonight I did this workout with @jameshobart @apbozman and @jimi.letchford. We did it as a celebration of his life and to honor his memory. If you are looking for something to do this weekend give this one a go and keep Chad in mind.”

From the Navy SEAL Foundation website: “SOCS Chad Michael Wilkinson died by suicide. The Foundation provided immediate tragedy assistance funding, travel and lodging for his family members, flowers and memorial legacy items for the command memorial and reception, as well as a family dinner the evening before the command memorial.”

**courtesy of WODWELL.com

This sparked the online community of Crossfit and spread like wildfire. And it’s only growing. To learn more about Chad Wilkinson and your way to help support Veteran suicide please visit CHAD1000X

Strategy

Not much strategy, just find your mental grit. In class, yell to your coach every 100 step ups to help with counting. Not at class? Grab a whiteboard, piece of paper, poker chips, or even sidewalk chalk to tally up every 100 reps. Grab a partner, friend, significant other, neighbor, whoever you choose to do this with you. You can tackle this one as a team and split up as you see fit. Scaling options can also be:

Intermediate:

500 Box Step-Ups (20 in)

Wear a Ruck Pack (25/15 lb)

Beginner

For Time

200 Box Step-Ups (20 in)

No Weighted Ruck

This is a longer workout so expect to move for at least an hour and scale accordingly.

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