TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF. WHAT DO YOU DO OUTSIDE OF THE GYM?
My name is Oscar Ayala. Outside the gym I work as an accountant/auditor for an accounting firm. I have been doing this for 15+ years and it’s a profession that has taken me to far corners of the world where I have been able to learn about so many different cultures. It never gets old!!! I was living in London for the past 5 years when an opportunity came knocking on the door and moved to Chicago in September 2020. I am loving Chicago and the community here in Andersonville!!! On my free time and whenever I am home, I volunteer at two community colleges and a non-profit organization teaching accounti
WHAT INITIALLY GOT YOU INTO TRAINING AND WHAT KEEPS YOU COMING BACK?
Back in 2016 I discovered crossfit trough a friend of mine who was competing and training for a Spartan Race. I had no idea about Olympic weightlifting and much less gymnastics. I slowly started training 3 times a week and within a month I couldn’t wait for the next WOD. Once I started training, I could feel an immediate change on my energy levels, less stress, and more confidence on every aspect of my life. Unfortunately, I stopped my regular training for a while due to an injury and work schedule, but I knew I needed to get back to it. Joining Hardware was one of the best decisions I made when I moved to Chicago. The immediate feeling of belonging, respect, and encouragement from all coaches and athletes was incredible. It keeps me motivated to come in every morning. I want to improve my technique, challenge myself and be able to excel at what I do inside and outside the gym. I miss Hardware whenever I am traveling; however, I check the WOD every single day and think of ways I can modify it with limited equipment at a hotel gym. Sometimes I get the chance to visit other gyms, but nothing and I mean nothing compares to Hardware!!!!
WHAT ARE YOUR FITNESS GOALS? HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO REACHING THEM?
My fitness goals are to improve my overall flexibility and strength. I think I am far from reaching my potential but little by little I can see gains. 3 digits on a snatch and OH Squat.. The crystal ball says..someday!!!!
WHAT’S AN ACCOMPLISHMENT OR GOAL YOU’VE REACHED AT HARDWARE THAT MADE YOU THE MOST PROUD?
An accomplishment or goals that I am most proud of would be #150 pounds on a squat clean and learning DUs. The whip lash on legs and arms is no joke!!!
FAVORITE WOD/MOVEMENT?
My favourite movement is squat cleans and WODs that include pull-ups, box jumps and snatches
LEAST FAVORITE WOD/MOVEMENT?
My least favourite movement or WOD has to be anything where I have to be upside down. HSPUs are the devil!!!
ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE INTERESTED IN TRYING OUT HARDWARE?
My advice for someone interested in trying out Hardware would be, once you step inside, you will find a group of people that will encourage you and that will care about your development as an athlete regardless of your fitness level, age, or experience. They will do anything in their power to make you feel safe and welcome. Give it a go!!!!
