February Spotlight – Jim

How long have you been a member at CFD?

I have been a member at CFD since the spring of 2016.

What made you want to get started?

Self Preservation. The fall of 2015 I suffered a back injury. The prognosis was a herniated disc in my lower back, which would eventually require going under the knife. Post surgery, I attempted to ease my way back into some fitness routines, however I knew the strength in my core and back was lacking and needed to improve. I recall thinking at various times that here I was; a 40 year old guy with a bad back and no answers. Katie, my wife, encouraged me to check out CFD and determine if it was something that could help me. She has a fitness background and always spoke highly of CFD regarding their teaching and philosophy. So, I opened the door and haven’t looked back.

What would your ideal workout look like?

I would mix some cardio with some pushing and pulling.
Buy in with 600M farmer carry
21-15-9 with S2OH and pull ups
Finish off with 600M farmer carry

What is your favorite gym music?

Alternative/Grunge. Coach Mike sprinkles a little bit in at 5:15AM, much appreciated. The Foo Fighters- shout out to Mary Bucheit!

What did you do for fitness prior to joining CFD?

I played Men’s Lacrosse for a number of years. I took up short distance running in recent years, prior to joining CFD.

What do you like most about CrossFit?

I enjoy knowing that when I walk in the door at 5:15AM in the morning I am about to get my ass kicked and then walking out at 6:15AM, being happy I did it. Also, the athletes and coaches that I get a chance to see and work with everyday are super people and I consider them friends.

What type(s) of workouts are your favorite?

I have always enjoyed any type of cardio work, but recently I have been getting pumped when I see overhead work on the board, such as push or strict press, jerks and snatches. I like the fact there is technique with the latter movements and working/improving on that makes me happy.

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

Without question, double unders. There have been nights when I toss and turn knowing that I have double unders the next morning. I firmly believe the lack of a sister in my life stunted my jump roping abilities.

What are your goals going forward?

My goals moving forward are to see how it would feel to be as fast as Micah G in a rowing component; Jeff K in an 800 or as complete as Arthur in any strength component. Kidding aside, continue improving my flexibility, strength, form and technique.

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

Two thoughts…. The first would be probably contrary to what a lot of people believe, but do not have any expectations for the first 3 months (high or low). Come to class; listen to the coaches; keep your head down and work hard. Unmet expectations often lead to failure.

Secondly, don’t be intimidated by working in a group setting, use it as motivation. The group WOD’s are fantastic, they make you accountable. Anyone who has struggled to maintain a steady workout program running solo understands.

Not a member? Sign up for an Intro Class today!  The next Intro class takes place on February 2nd at 10:00, and Foundations starts the next week (February 5th).
RSVP to the free Intro Class here!