Julia Kykkänen, a prominent Finnish ski jumper, made headlines in January by announcing her participation in the upcoming season of the reality TV show "Erikoisjoukot," where public figures undergo rigorous selection tests designed for special forces. The show requires contestants to push their physical and mental limits, resulting in an experience filled with pain, sweat, and tears. Kykkänen described the challenges as brutally demanding, forcing participants to confront their limits in ways they might not have anticipated.

After completing the filming, Kykkänen reflected on the transformation of her training perspective, stating that what she previously considered intense training was merely a warm-up compared to the grueling tests on the show. Her experience highlighted the show’s ability to authentically portray the harsh realities of such physical trials. However, she acknowledged that the emotional and physical toll of the experience felt even more extreme than what was shown on TV.

The filming lasted 11 days, and while Kykkänen could not disclose specific details about her challenges, she mentioned experiencing severe muscle soreness, including in areas she previously did not expect to be affected. This revelation not only underscores the physical demands of the series but also provides insight into the unforeseen difficulties faced by participants, further amplifying the show's intensity and appeal to viewers.