What brought you to DCCF?
I have always been pretty active and a longtime member of the YMCA and various other fitness gyms, etc. Ultimately, I got tired of the same old back/bicep and chest/tricep meathead routine at the gym. I knew Andrew Mittel socially through some mutual friends and he convinced me to come in and check it out. I was immediately hooked by the more complex full body movements and wanted to improve.
How long have you been a member?
I came to Derby City in January 2012
Did you play any sports in High School or College? Past athletic history?
I played baseball and basketball competitively when I was young. In high school, I played some baseball early, but mainly focused on basketball. My high school team was really good and I ended up being one of the best benchwarmers on the team, which I am still proud of. I still enjoy playing recreationally.
Who inspires you at DCCF?
This is going to sound cheesy, but I have to say that I am truly inspired and motivated by my wife, Erin Waddell. I think it’s amazing the way she was able to train and condition herself during her pregnancy and the progress she has made since our son was born is remarkable. I am inspired by people that push me to my limits and the friendly competitiveness between us keeps me motivated. I always have an eye on her; whether it is during a Metcon or making sure I beat her time posted on the board.
Tell us about your CrossFit goals…
To continue improving my technique at the Olympic lifts and focus on the gymnastic movements to become more efficient when they show up in workouts. I have enjoyed being involved in some of the local competitions and would like to continue to compete at that level.
What are your proudest accomplishments in CrossFit?
I don’t have any specific milestones that stick out, but I am proud of myself when I see consistent gains/improvements in my strength and Olympic lifts. I would also say I am glad I committed to competing in the WOD Travel Series and proud of how DJ Sullivan and I performed over those 3 weekends.
Since joining, what changes have you seen in your life?
Well, it has certainly made it easier on me to constantly pick up my toddler and carry him around everywhere. I have also added some distance to my golf game, which is an added bonus. Now I just have to hit the ball straight.
What areas are you working to improve?
All gymnastic areas and the Olympic lifts.
If you could have a theme song playing when you workout, what would it be?
“Renegade” by Jay-Z from The Blueprint
If we named a WOD for you, what would it consist of?
5 Rounds:
5 Power Cleans (135/95)
10 Pull-ups
200m Run
Are you paleo? Zone? Neither? Some of all? What is your experience with that?
I try to eat paleo throughout the week (Sunday thru Thursday). We plan our weekly meals and grocery shop on Sundays. However, I do love to eat any and all foods. Anything goes on the weekends for the most part.
Do you use CrossFit principals in any other areas of your life?
CrossFit has taught me to be more methodical and routine with my regular diet and exercise lifestyle, which transfers over to my work and other areas of my life. Taking an hour out of my day where I focus on nothing else but the grueling task at hand helps with my mental health and motivates me to tackle life challenges outside of the gym.
What do you like to do in your down time?
I love to eat! I also enjoy golfing with my buddies, walking/playing in the park with my wife and son, and playing basketball recreationally.