TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF. WHAT DO YOU DO OUTSIDE OF THE GYM?
I grew up in Massachusetts and lived in Canada for 12 years before moving to Chicago. I’m proud to have accomplished my goal of becoming a scientist, and I currently work as a management consultant at a small firm focused on helping pharmaceutical companies bring their products to market. In my free time I enjoy cooking, especially grilling, visiting my sister and extended family in Wisconsin, and exploring Chicago with my wife, Heather.
WHAT INITIALLY GOT YOU INTO CROSSFIT AND WHAT KEEPS YOU COMING BACK?
Honestly, seeing the documentary from the 2015 games. I had been weight training and running since high school and was simply blown away by the amazing feats those athletes performed. When I moved to Chicago I knew that I wanted to try something new and the concept of a more community-focused environment was very appealing. Once I started, I was hooked: first by the opportunity to challenge myself to learn new movements and skills, and then by the amazing people I started to meet.
I joined Hardware last year after my first box closed and could not be happier with my decision. I was immediately impressed with the quality of the coaching and the warmth of the community. Every day I look forward to catching up with people during class and celebrating everyone’s accomplishments.
WHAT ARE YOUR CROSSFIT GOALS? HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO REACHING THEM?
My current goal is to improve my gymnastic skills. I recently achieved muscle-ups after 6 months of dedicated practice, and now I’m shifting focus to handstand work. I’m predicting a longer time to success for this one; being upside down feels weird and I am already prone to tripping when I’m on my feet.
WHAT’S AN ACCOMPLISHMENT OR GOAL YOU’VE REACHED DUE TO CROSSFIT THAT’S MADE YOU THE MOST PROUD?
This year, I was able to perform all the open workouts Rx. What makes this so special is not just the reward of putting in lots of work and seeing a result, but the fact that many other people helped me to achieve this. I received a ton of guidance and support from coaches and other members along the way and continue to be inspired by the work ethic and generosity of the people around me.
FAVORITE WOD/MOVEMENT?
I’m a fan of long chippers that involve running. It’s really satisfying to tick off each part as you complete it and I always enjoy getting outside.
LEAST FAVORITE WOD/MOVEMENT?
Sumo deadlift high-pull. I just don’t get it.
ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE INTERESTED IN TRYING OUT CROSSFIT?
Everyone can do Crossfit. Literally everyone. It can be quite intimidating to step into a group setting with unfamiliar challenges (I felt super nervous for my first class), but the coaches are there to provide you with the tools you need to succeed in your goals, and the members are there to cheer you on.
