MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: AJ

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: AJ

Q: What brought you to CrossFit in the first place? 

A: My wife Heather had some great things to say about the place, and I wanted to get in shape.

Q: What was your first impression? How has that changed? 

A: I was completely overwhelmed at first. Both with how intense the workouts were, and how much better everyone else seemed to be doing that I was. Over time I started to understand all the acronyms, scale the workouts to the level I’m at, and stop comparing myself to the others, but to my previous self. 

Q: What was your first “bright spot”? 

A: The first time I completed part of a workout at Rx.  

Q: What’s your favorite CrossFit CTRL memory?” 

A: Walking in to the gym and seeing a corgi drawn on the white board for me

Q: What do you love most about CrossFit CTRL? What keeps you coming back each month? 

A: When I first joined, I was really afraid that I didn’t fit in and that people were judging me. Turns out those same people are why I keep coming back. They celebrate all of my wins with me and give me support when I’m struggling. 

There’s something comforting about suffering together in a group rather than alone.

Q: Who Inspires you? 

A: Heather is a giant inspiration to me. Without her I never would have tried crossfit in the first place. Her passion for fitness is palpable, and her tenacity of never being satisfied with where she is, and always reaching for the next goal constantly makes me want to be more like her. 

Q: What is your current occupation? What are some hobbies, clubs, groups, or activities you participate in? 

A: I’m a software engineer who enjoys making music, corgis, and literally anything having to do with star wars.

Q: What would you say to someone you love to encourage them to try CrossFit CTRL? 

A: Crossfit is for everyone. Part of me was worried that I would need to train and be in shape before even starting crossfit. The reality is the workouts can scale to the point that anyone and everyone can get started. It’s not anything to be afraid of, just show up, don’t worry about anyone else, and compete against yourself.