American Grit contestants will be mentored by "The Cadre," made up of military members who, along with Cena, will push their civilian charges throughout the competition. The Cadre consists of: Navy Seal trainer, Rorke Denver; Purple Heart recipient, U.S. Army veteran Noah Galloway; Veteran U.S. Marine Gunnery Sergeant, Tawanda “Tee” Hanible; and U.S. Army Ranger sniper, Nick “The Reaper” Irving.

Survival skills, decision making and teamwork are tested as the contestants create shelter, purify water and build a fire in their next challenge.

The competitors face a test of strategy and teamwork as they are challenged to cross a 60-yard field without touching the ground with their feet.