October Athlete Spotlight: Matt and Angela

• How long have you been a member of CFD, and what made you want to get started?

We have been members at CFD for just over 3 years.  Our friends Dee and Ryan put an extreme amount of pressure on us to join after they became members.  At that time we were both very tired of going to a local gym in Platteville.  We weren’t seeing any results from our gym routine.  We needed a change and desperately needed help to understand how to become healthy.  We scheduled a meet and greet with Phil.  We quickly realized that we were doing everything wrong.  We signed up for Foundations that same day with Phil.  We are so glad we did!

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

Matt: The biggest change I have seen is my physical appearance.  I have gained about 25 pounds since starting CFD.  I am much stronger than I have ever been.  I have gained more confidence in myself and my physical abilities.  I have awakened this competitive drive that I haven’t felt in many years.  I have seen my workout results assist me in my career as a Police Officer.  My strength and endurance have greatly improved since joining CFD.  I am confident that I will be able to handle any situation or obstacle thrown at me.

Angela:  The biggest change I’ve seen has been my mentality.  I was very skeptical about joining CFD.  I had no desire to get stronger and honestly feared being “bulky.” I hated going to the gym before.  Now I can’t wait to get to the gym.  Since joining CFD I have gained a passion for fitness.  The physical changes are outstanding as well.  It is incredible to reflect on the past and think about all the movements I couldn’t do back then.

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

Prior to CFD we were both going to Snap Fitness in Platteville about 2-3 days a week.  Our workout routine included being on the treadmill/elliptical, bicep curls, and bench pressing.  Our workouts also included putting our ear buds in and closing ourselves off from others.  While working out at this gym we were forced to stare at ourselves in the mirror. This made us both obsess on our physical flaws.  We are so thankful for CFD.  We are no longer alone while working out.  CFD offers a non-judging environment full of encouraging individuals.  And, there are no mirrors!  Without mirrors, you are forced to stop dwelling on your flaws and not be self-conscious.   We love CrossFit for many reasons but the biggest reason is the variance in workouts.  You are never bored.

• What type(s) of workouts are your favorite?

Matt: My favorite types of workouts include squats of any kind, pushups, and wall balls.  Three years ago, I’d say wall balls were my least favorite movement.  After being coached on how to efficiently do wall balls, I have become more comfortable with this movement and have actually started to enjoy them.

Angela: My favorite type of workouts also includes squats, not wall balls, just normal squats.  Squat cleans and front/back squats are in my wheelhouse.  I also enjoy pull-ups.

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

Matt: My least favorite is anything overhead.  Jerks, snatches and handstand pushups are my weaknesses.

Angela: My least favorite workout includes the rower and wall balls.  Seriously, these two movements should be illegal for a 5ft. person.

• What are your goals going forward?

Our goals include continuing to work on our weaknesses and to become more educated in nutrition.

Matt: My individual goal includes becoming more involved in competitions.  A specific personal goal includes ranking in the top 1000 in the Central Region of the CrossFit Open.

Angela: Besides working on my weaknesses and becoming more educated in nutrition, I would like to do an individual competition.  I would like to continue to get comfortable with the uncomfortable.

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

Our advice to anyone interested in joining CFD or a new CFD member is to stick with the program!  Don’t give up that easily.  Also, do not cherry pick the workouts!  Those are the workouts that you truly need to go to.  You will never improve your weaknesses if you are avoiding them.

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