Happy New Year! How are those 2021 resolutions to lose weight and get in shape coming along?
If you could use a little extra motivation right about now, have I got an inspiration for you!
It’s the story of a few brave souls who put their mental and physical stamina to the test each year as they attempt GORUCK‘s elite Selection course, billed as “the toughest endurance event on the planet.”
(For those of you who aren’t familiar with GORUCK, it’s an amazing organization … or should I say tribe? Their theme for 2021 is “seek pain.” If that sounds strangely appealing, you can find out more about joining the GORUCK Tribe here.)
Living 24 Days in 48 Hours
As portrayed in the documentary, The Standard, the Selection isn’t about winning. It’s about surviving a two-day challenge designed to compress the U.S. Army’s torturous 24-day Assessment and Selection process into a grueling 48 hours.
For the participants, including the Special Forces combat veterans who lead the event, the Selection presents an opportunity to bridge the military-civilian divide.
What’s more, it’s the only GORUCK course where the cadre of U.S. Army Special Forces, Recon Marines and Navy SEALs in charge actually tries to get people to quit.
And quit they do: Since its inception, 486 people have attempted GORUCK Selection, but only 28 have completed the entire challenge.
45 Pounds Over 80 Miles
And it’s easy to see why. Participants carry backpacks weighing a minimum of 45 pounds and trek over 80 miles, pushing themselves to the limit in team challenges meant to honor all who have served our country in combat.
Check out The Standard to find out how many from Class 019 make the grade.
And meanwhile, whether you decide to “seek pain” or not, no more whining about doing those pushups!
Watch the trailer for The Standard here: