Sweat for Vets: Team RWB’s Epic Purple Heart Workout Tribute

On August 7th, we celebrate Purple Heart Day to recognize the incredible sacrifice and bravery of the nearly 1.8 million service members who have received the Purple Heart medal. This honor is presented to those injured or killed in the line of duty, and is one of the oldest military decorations.

The stories of Purple Heart recipients span generations, but all demonstrate astonishing courage. Like Army Veteran John Reyes, who sustained major injuries during an 11-month deployment to Iraq in 2004. When a mortar exploded just meters away, Reyes helped evacuate other wounded soldiers before treating his own shrapnel wounds. He then manned a machine gun with a tourniquet on his leg to hold his position until returning to base. His valor earned him the Purple Heart and Army Commendation Medal.

Today, Reyes continues his service as a passionate volunteer with Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB) – using fitness to enrich veterans’ lives. He serves as State Coordinator for Colorado, organizing workouts and events. Reyes knows firsthand how meaningful the Purple Heart is to wounded vets, saying “It can reassure them that having an injury does not mean you’re different.”

That’s why Team RWB members will honor Purple Heart heroes from August 5-13 through group workout challenges nationwide. Dubbed the “Purple Heart Workout”, teams will complete 60-minute sets of runs and burpees to pay tribute to recipients. Reyes himself will lead Colorado’s flagship workout, exemplifying how Purple Heart awardees continue uplifting their communities.

Whether it’s sweating for veterans or pausing in silence, this Purple Heart Day, take time to remember those who sacrificed life and limb for freedom. Their bravery and service must never be forgotten.