When did you start doing CrossFit?
Fall of 2012
Favorite WOD?
Cindy
Least Favorite WOD?
Karen – Hate Wallballs
Favorite Lift? Used to be Bench Press now it’s a clean and jerk
Least Favorite Lift? Snatch Balance
Tell us a little bit about yourself (family, job, sports, military, interests, etc.)?
I live in Warrington PA with my wife Laurie and my children Aidan and Brenna. We’ve lived in Warrington for close to 11 years. I also work in Warrington for a Mechanical Construction/Service company (Limbach). I’ve served as the Safety Manager for Limbach for 8 years. Although my position takes me away from home from time to time I’m fortunate that I can make the WOD a few times a week. When I’m not spending time with my family, I enjoy hunting, fishing and home brewing beer with friends.
What were you doing before CrossFit?
Prior to Crossfit, I would bench press, curl and run on the treadmill. I once had a monthly membership to a national fitness gym. I was asked not to breath so hard during my workout for fear of making others feel uncomfortable. I guess my 175 lb. frame is rather intimidating. After having to be chastised several times, I knew it wasn’t for me.
What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout?
I thought I was pretty fit. I remember the first Saturday workout I attended. I did my 50 pushups without a problem; but by the end of the WOD the weights were stripped off the bar and I struggled to finish at all. That’s when I knew I was not in Crossfit shape.
What were your goals when joining CrossFit?
I wanted to strengthen my entire body. It’s easy to perform exercises that you like; but that doesn’t provide you with balance.
Please tell us about achieving those goals?
Although my back squat is far from stellar, I’m significantly stronger than I was when I first started. My flexibility has increased which helps performance.
What are some of your best WOD times/ achievements inside the gym?
I choose Cindy as my favorite WOD because I did it more than twice and each time my time improved. I used to have an app to keep track of times and PRs; those things aren’t so important to me anymore.
Do you have any other special memories/ achievements during your time here?
When I first started Crossfit I felt myself growing stronger and watch people around me get stronger too. I was fearless; I would try heavy weight and and more reps. Looking back I believe I sacrificed good form for reps and that’s when my injury happened. One day my shoulder started to bother me. After visiting the Ortho I was told I needed surgery. The healing process took longer than I thought it would. I missed the workouts. Let’s face it, there’s no better return on your time investment than to spend an hour doing crossfit. The transition process was slow. I was careful and really wanted to be sure the exercises were performed correctly. Today I’m more interested in proper form than weight and reps.
What advice would you give to a newbie just joining Central Bucks CrossFit?
Check your Ego at door. You’ll see people doing things that look effortless and struggle to mimic the movement. Don’t get discouraged. Listen to the coach’s instructions. They’re knowledgeable and helpful.
Something you might not know about me is?
I have been skydiving and would love to experience it again.