SGPT Interview With 20X Challenge Graduate Michael Nealon

SGPT: Tell us a little about yourself and your background coming into 20X?

MN: I starting do CrossFit workouts and running 9 -12 miles, a week, 3 months prior to the 20x. I ‘ve doing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), on and off past 10 years.

SGPT: When did you go through 20X and tell us about your experience.

MN: It was outstanding! I really enjoyed the true TEAMWORK idea. Guys really working together.

SGPT: What was the hardest part of 20X for you?

MN: Running 3 miles, with a 20 lb ruck, caring 12lb PVC, up to the Park, doing the exercises there, and then running back to Crossfit Honor.

SGPT: How did you prepare for 20X and how long?

MN: CrossFit 2 to 3 times a week and ran 9-12 miles a week.

SGPT: What is one tip you would give a candidate for 20X to take heed?

MN: Do a lot of rucking with 20 lbs, run a lot of long runs, and do pushups, pull ups, and air squats, 5 times a week.

SGPT: How does it feel to be done and what have you learned?

MN: I felt great! I learned that your mind really does control your body, working as a team you can accomplish anything, and I can see why you and your Navy Seal teammates are the best Warriors in the world.

Coach Brad, I really appreciate you motivating me with your words during the MURPH wo rkout, I was totally spent at the point.

You and other SEAL coaches stressing that we breath through through noses, helped a lot. This SEALFIT 20x event was a very important event in my life.

SGPT: Thanks for the interview, Michael.

MN: Thanks Coach Brad for all of your help.

Questions from our SGPT athletes.

Question: Coach; I want to train for a GORUCK light that is coming up in the spring. I am not in shape so how do I get started?

Answer: Good question. I would start by walking in your neighborhood and then slowly add a 10 lb weight vest. Check out this SGPT article: GORUCK Training Tips

Are you interested in training for the SEALFIT 20X event?

Do you have a big event on the horizon and you want to finish the drill?

Get individual coaching from SGPT Coach Brad McLeod (SEALFIT certified coach). Check out coaching here:

About the Author:
Brad McLeod knows first hand about mental toughness after being kicked out of a top tier Spec Ops training unit. He failed out of BUD/S the first time after failing a math test (made it through Hell Week and Dive Pool Comp). He came back a year later and graduated and served as an operator on the Navy SEAL Teams with a total of 6 years of military service.