How did your journey with CrossFit Northland began? How long have you been a member of CrossFit Northland? What made you decide to do CrossFit at that time?
My wife, Lindsey, and I were friends with Dustin and Kristin Sollars and heard they were starting a Crossfit gym. We started when they were doing track workouts at Park Hill and near Diane’s School of Dance. I think it was in 2011. I remember those early 5:30am classes feeling dead tired and looking around at people like, “are we all acting like this is normal to work out at this time?” Yet, I loved the workouts and the chance to be competitive with others and myself.
Tell us about your fitness/health background? (Have you always been active? Played sports growing up? Tried other gym settings? Workout at home?)
I’ve never been a gym person or a weights person (hard to tell I know) but have always been active in various sports. Tennis has been most consistent through childhood and adulthood. But my fitness was way less consistent after having kids so CFN came on at a great time when I could enjoy getting fit again.
How has CFN played a role in your life outside of the gym?
The community connections have become such an important part of our lives. It’s not just about fitness. It’s about having these people in our life.
What are some changes you’ve noticed in yourself during your time here at CFN? (Physically, mentally, capabilities, daily life, etc.)
More than anything, Crossfit has helped me get more mentally tough. There are so many moments where I say to myself, “you did 100 burpees yesterday, you can handle this project!”
In your opinion, what is the most valuable aspect of Crossfit Northland?
I know I’m going to get a great, consistent workout every time I walk into the gym. I value companies I can count on.
What is your favorite CFN memory?
The current location is an amazing gym space but I have nostalgic memories of the old small gym. Putting barbells thru drywall, pushing vehicles down the smelly ally, wall balls only possible outside and max height box jumps. #memories
What is your favorite type of workout?
I enjoy small-guy moves like handstand push-ups and rope climbs. Snatch is my favorite barbell movement, and I’m finally getting handstand walks to click. Such a wild thing to walk on your hands!
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
Have always been a Star Wars fan so I’ll choose being a Jedi as my superpower. Light sabers and being able to use the Force!!! This may be influenced by being at the new Star Wars area in Disney World in early 2020. It was awesome. #nerd