Absolutely Amazing Work! 

As we dive deeper into the #F3MayChallenge, I want to take a moment to recognize the dedication, grit, and progress each of you has shown. Every goal you set is a step toward a better, stronger version of yourself. That is clearly reflected in the spreadsheet trackers.  

What are your goals for the #F3MayChallenge? 

Whether you’re aiming to hit a new mileage goal, complete a certain number of workouts, or simply be more consistent, remember: every small step forward is a victory.  There will be days when motivation is low or life gets busy, showing up and putting in the work is what sets you apart. Your team is to help motivate each other! 

We are truly impressed by what you have accomplished so far. The energy and support you bring to the group inspire everyone around you. “Fitness is not about being better than someone else, it’s about being better than you used to be.” Focus on your own journey and celebrate your personal wins, no matter how small they seem.

To help you stay on track and visualize your progress, we’ve set up: Google Looker Studio Progress Tracker

Let’s keep lifting each other up and pushing our limits together.

Week 2:   4 x 4 x 48 Challenge

Week 2’s mini challenge starts Thursday May 8.  The 4x4x48 challenge was conceived by ultramarathoner David Goggins during Covid,  just like the #f3maychallenge.   Every 4 hours run or ruck 4 miles for 48 hours. This would give you a total of 48 miles.    Those who finish the challenge earn 1000 bonus points, plus the milage, plus the knowledge knowing they accomplished this challenge!  

If you choose to start at 12:01 am Thursday, then your Strava start times would be:  00:01, 04:01, 08:01,12:01, 16:01, 20:01. [ +/- 15 mins].   Tag @F3MayChallenge on Strava https://www.strava.com/clubs/F3MayChallenge

Here are some things that have helped us: 

  1. Keep your clothes ready and drying. 
  2. Have food ready made. 
  3. Keep yourself accountable by posting on Strava. Encouragement and accountability is key!  
  4. Slow and steady wins the challenge.  
  5. Group runs are great. 

Rule:   Once you start the 4x4x48 challenge, the next run or ruck must start within the next 4 hrs +/- 15 mins.  This window is because life happens. 💩 This rule is so people don’t double up on the times where you’d start 3-ish hours late and start the next one immediately after. 

Week 2’s mini challenge kicks off Thursday, May 8: the legendary 4x4x48! Conceived by ultramarathoner and Navy SEAL David Goggins during Covid-just like the #F3MayChallenge-this test is all about pushing your limits and discovering what you’re truly capable of

The challenge: Every 4 hours, run or ruck 4 miles, for 48 hours straight. That’s 12 rounds, totaling 48 miles-an ultra-distance broken into manageable chunks, but with no real rest.  Completing the 4x4x48 is a feat of both physical and mental toughness, and everyone who finishes earns 1,000 bonus points, all their mileage, and the pride of knowing they conquered something extraordinary!

How it works:
If you start at 12:01 am Thursday, your Strava start times would be: 00:01, 04:01, 08:01, 12:01, 16:01, 20:01 (plus the same times Friday)-with a 15-minute window for life’s curveballs. Tag @F3MayChallenge on Strava and join the community: https://www.strava.com/clubs/F3MayChallenge.

Tips for success:

  • Prep your gear: Keep your running clothes ready and drying between rounds.
  • Fuel up: Have food and hydration prepped in advance-you’ll need it!
  • Stay accountable: Post every leg on Strava. Encouragement and accountability are key.
  • Pace yourself: Start slow and steady. Don’t burn out early-save your energy for the later rounds. 
  • Buddy up: Group runs make those late-night legs easier and boost morale.
  • Recovery matters: Rest, stretch, and move gently between runs to keep your body primed.

Challenge rule: Once you start, each run or ruck must begin within the next 4 hours (+/- 15 minutes). No doubling up or stacking runs-this is about consistency, discipline, and perseverance.

Lets see those Merkins Videos! 

There’s a reason the #F3MayChallenge is often called Merkin Fest or the Merkin Challenge-because merkins (push-ups) earn serious points quickly. Show us your best, most creative merkin. Whether it’s in a park, on a rooftop, or somewhere totally unexpected, unique and fun locations catch everyone’s attention and inspire the whole community.

Check out French Toast from Beastside of the Eastside crushing merkins after a rainstorm-in a local stream! Now that’s dedication and creativity:https://youtube.com/shorts/p_FMUC_C7I4

Where will you do yours? 

Tag your videos with #F3MayChallenge  and let’s see those merkin moves from all over. The more original, the better-let’s make this Merkin Fest unforgettable!

Week 1 Challenge Details: 

The Week 1 WOD details in video format:  https://www.youtube.com/shorts/YscppsYnOKw

More details about how points are entered: ( make sure to enter your normal points and the bonus ).  youtu.be/KVTN4H5rpM4

How did you stack up? https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1-ZTFcrhEEgC-DmvPvu4GLCK5x3_tdk5LkSIgSRmjs8U/edit?gid=1118409557

 Are you still completely lost and cannot figure it out?  Email us or ask your team members for help.