September CFD Athlete Spotlight

BLu and Ashley

(that isn’t a typo, that’s Brandon’s RSVP nickname!)

1. How long have you been a member at CFD, and what made you want to get started?

Ashley: 5 months – we both started with the April foundations class. I started because I had a desire to learn more about fitness and overall wellness and it seemed like CrossFit would be a good fit for that.

Brandon:  I had been mostly sedentary for about 7 months when my netflix account expired and I was too lazy to renew it. I decided I should probably get moving again, but I lacked the motivation to go to the gym and workout by myself. I had been interested in CrossFit for a couple years but never thought I was “in good enough shape” to join. I finally decided to stop making excuses and give it a try.

2. What changes have you seen in yourself since your very first day?

Ashley: Although I have seen some physical changes, most of my changes have been mental. I went from looking at the various movements and thinking “I can’t do this”, to “I will try this and see how it goes”. I have also purposed myself to do the things that I suck at – that is a huge change for me as I would have typically tried to save myself the embarrassment by skipping a workout or simply not showing up.

Brandon: Because part of the program is tracking/benchmarking nearly every workout, I can say that I’ve gotten significantly stronger and faster. I’m also getting more and more confident in the various weightlifting movements.

3. What did you do for fitness prior to CFD, and what do you like most about CrossFit?

Ashley: I’ve had a gym membership for years and have even taken other classes, but it is still amazing to me how much I didn’t know before coming to CFD. The people are hands down my favorite part of CFD! I love getting to see good, fun people every day and I am continually impressed by how smart and dedicated our coaches are.

Brandon: I was involved in competitive sports from a young age through college and have always enjoyed the challenge of competing. I hit a lull after college and became quite unhealthy. I love Crossfit because of the competitiveness coupled with the comradery and team atmosphere. There are days I don’t always feel like pushing myself, but I know that the coaches will be there to push me on my lifting and teammates will be there to suffer through the WOD with me. That is very motivating.

4. What type(s) of workouts are your favorite?

Ashley: It’s always great to see a workout and think “there is no way I can do that – I’m not there yet” and then you finish. It might not be pretty, but you’re done and alive 🙂 I also like working on squats.

Brandon: I love the variety in workouts. The various combinations of strength, speed, stamina, power, and endurance movements keeps me interested and challenged. If I had to pick a favorite workout it would be anything that incorporates bicep curls and crushing beers for time.

5. What type(s) of workouts do you least like to see come up?

Ashley: Burpees. Next question.

Brandon: If (God forbid) one day all of the air bikes mysteriously disappeared and I never had to do another AB sprint… I wouldn’t be complaining

6. What are you goals going forward?

Ashley: Besides get faster, go longer, get stronger and be all around better … I would like to continue to work on my body composition.

Brandon: Get stronger/faster > Cut some weight > Get better at the body weight movements > Take more mirror selfies right after my workouts.

7. What advice do you have for someone just starting out at CFD?

Ashley: Show up even on (especially on) the days you don’t want to, because those are the days you need it most; do the things you suck at; and don’t worry about what other people are thinking… it’s probably just a dirty joke anyway.

Brandon: You are capable of more than you think, don’t let your body lie to you by saying it’s too sore/tired. Push through the mental barrier and your body will fall in line. I’m constantly reminding myself of this.

If you are interested in starting your journey at CFD, click here to sign up for a free introductory class!