BLOOMINGTON, Minn. -- Local YMCA officials named Sgt. Adam Kruse their "Fittest Male" recently after he completed the Eagan Fitness Challenge with the fastest time.

"Physical fitness isn't just about being a fast runner or doing 20 pull-ups, it's a life style," said the 26-year-old Woodbury, Minn., recruiter. "As Marines, we need to be ready to take on any challenge and complete it at any given time."

The course consisted of three rounds of 21 kettle-bell swings, 15 push-ups and nine burpees, also known as bend and thrusts. Kruse crossed the finish line in 2:26.

"We always talk about physical fitness to our poolees," said Staff Sgt. Scott Cole, 30, from Prior Lake, Minn. "This shows that he practices what he preaches."

The Huron, S.D., native initially completed the course in 2:55, but another competitor bested his time so he felt compelled to give it another shot.

"It was just another obstacle I had to overcome," Kruse said. "As long as I strive to do my best I believe I'm setting the example."

Overall, more than 20 men and women took the fitness challenge.

"I think we're going to try and make it a quarterly event," said Derrick Stortz, personal trainer and Eagan YMCA staff member. "I know Adam is ready to come back and defend his title."

For other competitions, visit www.ymca.net.

"It's all about never settling or being content with who you are," Kruse said. "Always strive to improve no matter what level of physical fitness you reach."