Winter 2023
Preparing for the 2023 Maltz Challenge
The Maltz Challenge a very challenging physical fitness event, honors Air Force MSGT Michael H. Maltz, a pararescue specialist with the 38th Rescue Squadron, Moody Air Force Base, GA, 19 September 1960 – 23 March 2003, who perished in action with 5 fellow airmen during a medical evacuation of ill children in Southeastern Afghanistan.
Since 2006, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has paid tribute to MSGT Maltz through this challenge, and subsequently, since 2013, has furthermore paid tribute to fallen soldiers throughout the various branches of the United States Military. MSGT Maltz, a true American hero, excelled in his service to our great nation, his accomplishments were many and his dedication to optimal fitness was exemplified throughout numerous accolades, https://maltzchallenge.com/index.php/about/.
Some of these fallen heroes that have been honored have direct ties to the DEA, such as 2010 honorees DEA Special Agents Chad Michael, Forrest Leamon, and Michael Weston. These Special Agents were killed in Afghanistan while participating in a counter-narcotics military mission, alongside seven U.S. soldiers and subsequently perished on October 26, 2009, https://www.pwcva.gov/news/prince-william-county-honors-forrest-n-leamon.
The Maltz Challenge is currently scheduled for March 17, 2023, in coordination with the respective DEA offices and various local gymnasiums, cross-fit boxes, and additionally, this year at the Denver Broncos professional football training facility. Additionally, The Maltz Challenge has been held previously at the United States Army’s 1st Armored Division in Fort Bliss, Texas.
The following is the traditional order for The Maltz Challenge, which includes the individual partaking in either the Full Challenge or the Half Maltz Challenge. The following annotates the Full Maltz Challenge.
- Full Maltz Challenge:
— 400-meter run, 50 pull-ups, 100-meter firemen’s carry or
— 200-meter farmer’s walk with 50-lb/25-lb dumbbells, 50 dips, 100 push-ups,
— 50 knees to the elbows, 100 sit-ups, and a 400-meter run.
- Half Maltz Challenge:
— 200-meter run, 25 pull-ups, 50-meter firemen’s carry or
— 100-meter farmer’s walk with 50-lb/25-lb dumbbells, 25 dips, 50 push-ups,
— 25 knees to the elbows, 50 sit-ups, and a 200-meter run.
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The Maltz Challenge may seem difficult, however, this writer recommends testing yourself once than making a 10% linear weekly progression to add onto your initial testing date to assist you in achieving either your completion of the Full or Half Maltz Challenge. Furthermore, camaraderie and the tribute you will pay to MSGT Maltz and these other amazing fallen soldiers should assist you in grinding out these extra repetitions. Traditionally, The Maltz Challenge has been open to active duty soldiers, law enforcement, first responders, firefighters, and their spouses. However, any individuals desiring participation in The Maltz Challenge may contact the above-referenced website of DEAMALTZCHALLENGE@GMAIL.COM.
Daniel J. Borowick, M.S., C.S.C.S. is a former DEA Special Agent and Physical Task Test Administrator who has over 27 years of tactical experience in state and federal law enforcement. Currently, he is a private contractor serving the US Army’s 1ST Armored Divisions H2F Program. Any inquiries concerning this article can be directed to Borowick at dmexfit@gmail.com.
