What is a normal time for a Murph?

Answered by James Smith

Determining a “normal” time for a Murph workout can vary greatly depending on the individual's fitness level and experience. The Murph is a challenging workout that consists of a one-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and another one-mile run, all performed consecutively. It is a grueling test of strength, endurance, and mental fortitude.

For beginners or those new to the Murph workout, completing it in less than 60 minutes is generally considered a good finish time. This allows for a moderate pace and allows the individual to become familiar with the demands of the workout. It's important to remember that everyone starts at a different fitness level, and it's perfectly acceptable to take breaks and modify the exercises as needed. Building up to completing the full Murph without any modifications is a significant achievement in itself.

As an individual progresses and becomes more experienced with the Murph, aiming for a time of less than 45 minutes is a common goal. This requires increased speed and efficiency in each exercise, as well as improved cardiovascular endurance. It's important to push oneself but also listen to the body and avoid sacrificing form for speed. It may take months or even years of consistent training to reach this level of performance.

For elite athletes and highly experienced exercisers, completing the Murph in less than 35 minutes is considered an impressive time. These individuals have honed their skills, developed exceptional strength and endurance, and often compete in events such as CrossFit competitions. Achieving a sub-35-minute Murph time requires a high level of fitness and dedication to training. It's important to note that even among elite athletes, times can vary depending on factors such as body size, muscle mass, and personal strengths.

It's worth mentioning that the Murph workout is not just about the time it takes to complete it. It's about challenging oneself, pushing through physical and mental barriers, and honoring the memory of Navy SEAL Lieutenant Michael Murphy, for whom the workout is named. Regardless of the time it takes, completing the Murph is an accomplishment to be proud of. It's a testament to one's commitment to fitness and the ability to endure and overcome challenges.

In my personal experience, I remember my first attempt at the Murph workout as a beginner. I had been training consistently but knew it would be a significant challenge. I paced myself during the runs, broke up the exercises into manageable sets, and focused on maintaining good form. It took me just over an hour to complete, but I was thrilled with my accomplishment. Over time, as I became more experienced and improved my fitness level, I was able to shave off time and complete the Murph in under 45 minutes. It was a gratifying feeling to see the progress I had made and to know that my hard work was paying off.

To summarize, a “normal” time for a Murph workout can vary depending on the individual's fitness level and experience. Less than 60 minutes is considered a good time for beginners, less than 45 minutes for advanced exercisers, and less than 35 minutes for elite athletes. However, it's important to focus on personal progress and not compare oneself to others. The Murph is a challenging workout that should be approached with respect and a desire to push oneself to new limits.