What keeps you busy when you’re not in the gym?
Usually I’m editing video, writing scripts, reading Sci-Fi/Fantasy novels and trying to learn constantly. Right next to me at all times is my dog Strider trying to help me out.
What motivated you to become a CrossFitter?
When I left Austin, TX a year ago this August I weighed 380 lbs. I started working out on my own and I moved to Minneapolis in December. I met Hannah through improv and she introduced me to Paleo. She kept telling me to check out CrossFit. One day I left work early to come to my first WOD and Teddy destroyed me. After that I was hooked. Today I’ve lost more than 100 lbs and I’m the strongest and healthiest I’ve ever been.
What’s been your biggest challenge in the gym?
My physical challenge is flexibility and running. I want to be good at running but I’m slow still so it frustrates me. My mental challenge is seeing others able to do something that I can’t do yet. I hate scaling but I know I have to at times.
What do you consider your greatest accomplishment in the gym?
That’s tough. I think that doing Murph after only doing CrossFit for a month was a huge accomplishment. This week I did five double unders in a row and did a deadlift of 300 lbs. Both of those were firsts for me. Every time I do something that I never thought I could makes me feel awesome.
Any advice for people just getting started?
Ask questions, listen and challenge yourself. Having a positive mental attitude will change everything. Tell yourself that you can do something and it’ll become easier. Never give up.
