​How did you start CrossFit?
I was looking for some more structure to my workouts. I tried some of the home workout programs, but those were just OK. My wife works at Boston Scientific and she was telling me about some of her coworkers that did CrossFit there and I decided to give Resilience a try. 
 
What is your favorite part about CrossFit?
Definitely the group setting + live coaching. I feel comfortable trying things I would never try during a solo workout and I really benefit from the accountability of the group. 
 
What motivates you to continue CrossFit?
The first couple of months were really challenging as I tried to figure out how hard to push to get the benefit but avoid injury and feel good the next day. Now that I am in a groove and understand my body a bit better I can keep making progress in reps, weight, movements, etc. at CrossFit and can see the positive impacts outside of CrossFit. 
 
What are your favorite movements and favorite WOD?
I like any body weight or gymnastic movements and the balanced strength they build. Favorite WOD is probably Murph. The huge group working together plus a few of my favorite movements sandwiched by one of my least favorite make it a good challenge.
 
What is your favorite CrossFit memory?
Definitely my first '12 Days of Christmas' WOD. It was at the old space, it was packed and I was only a few months into CrossFit...so it was a real struggle from a physical point-of-view but it was also the most fun I had working out since being with my teams back in high school.
 
What is the best advice you can give a fellow CrossFitter? 
Pace yourself in the beginning and let your body get used to all the new movements. For the first few months (at least) all the workouts were just survival for me, but once I started focusing more on the right scale for me I was able to stay healthy and then start to push harder for less time, more weight or harder movements.
 
Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know.
I enjoy coaching youth sports and I am active with both the soccer and lacrosse programs in Upton/Mendon...even though I didn't play either of those sports as a kid.

​How did you start RUSH?
I started JumpStart in January after my husband joined Crossfit a couple weeks before and let me know about the JumpStart program. I continued as an OG in RUSH. 
 
What is your favorite part about RUSH?
I appreciate my fellow Rushers friendliness at 6am and the encouragement of the coaches to keep working hard. 
 
What motivates you to continue RUSH?
Slowly but surely I see and feel the results. I feel healthier and stronger, which makes curious about what else I can accomplish.
 
What are your favorite movements?
I would say my two favorites are SkiErg and jump rope. Really, I like the variety overall. It keeps it interesting and helps me recover.
 
What is your favorite RUSH memory?
Finally making a box jump without any aids!
 
What is the best advice you can give a fellow RUSH’er? 
Just do you and keep at it. Know your body’s limitations but push yourself a little each time. You will see progress.
 
Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know.
I ❤️ Boxer Dogs. I love their goofy personalities with just a touch of attitude, smushed faces, and cuddles.

​How did you start RUSH?
February was a dark time. I had just put my dog to sleep, and the Price Chopper had a BOGO on Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. My friend Joseph asked if i wasn’t buttoning my overalls so I could continue to put on girth. I knew I had to make some changes, and I remembered there was this place on South street that had a solution.
 
What is your favorite part about RUSH?
Leaving class.
 
What motivates you to continue RUSH?
The honest answer is, it’s now just sort of what I do. I’ve lost the power of choice. I have that kind of conversation at 5am, “I’m not going to go today,” and without my own permission I slide out of bed and strap my shoes on.
 
What are your favorite movements?
I really like the rower. I thought I might buy one for my house, but I realized I don’t have to, because I can just go and use the rower at the gym. I even have a passing affection for the ski erg. I don’t know why, because everyone hates the skier. 
 
What is your favorite RUSH memory?
We had done a workout called “Fortitude,” I think, that involved 1,000 miles of rowing interspersed with several thousand burpees. Each was like dropping a bag of soaking beach towels from height. My face looked like a stop sign, two veins bulging like garden hoses on my forehead. I was quite certain I was going to die. It was a good day.
 
What is the best advice you can give a fellow RUSH’er? 
Who am I to advise? Keep doing what you’re doing.
 
Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know.
I watch and appreciate cricket. No one does that.

​How did you start CrossFit?
The Rise of the Resilient youth competition last year while I cheered on my son Tommy and all. Tommy and those kids were the initial inspiration to show up the following Monday morning for 0500 class. (Showing up unannounced is a separate story) 
 
What is your favorite part about CrossFit?
In my 20's I went to Golds gym, where I did the simple squat, bench, and deadlift type workouts. I did that as about as dedicated as one could be. A 15-year break from the gym and into CrossFit has me enjoying fitness 10-fold beyond my "old fashioned" work outs. The energy and support here by members and coaches sets us all up for success. I like the adrenal rush I have on the drive in perhaps the best.
 
What motivates you to continue CrossFit?
There have been a few instances over the past year that prevented me from a scheduled class time. A day started in the gym at 0500 always turns out best for me. Knowing that I have the early obligation each morning keeps me on track all day.
 
What are your favorite movements and favorite WOD?
Rope climbs, and pull ups are favorite movements, I am not able to call out a favorite WOD, each day is so different It does not seem like I have done the same workout twice yet.
 
What is your favorite CrossFit memory?
The day recently that Jackie helped me realize a double under can be done...I now work towards the ability to do more than 2 in any given day.
 
What is the best advice you can give a fellow CrossFitter? 
If you are a fellow CrossFitter that means still taking advice vs. giving in order to get through the WOD. I am a fan of old-fashioned hard work, I advise to consider every work out another job that must be completed! 
 
Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know.
Motorcycles, street and dirt I take very seriously. A long tour on a Harley Davidson Ultra always gives me a good full charge.

​How did you start RUSH?
Last spring, my friends got me to sign up for a half marathon (and I have never considered myself a runner, so I really questioning this decision!).  I was also about to start the spring sport season, during which I coach high school softball.  Based on previous years, I knew that I always dropped off of my gym regimen during this season because I was so exhausted by the end of the day and knew with the race coming up I could not let that happen.  My boyfriend suggested I try RUSH at Resilience in the mornings and I was definitely hooked right away! 
 
What is your favorite part about RUSH?
I love the group dynamics.  I have met a lot of people and they are all very motivating and encouraging.  I also love starting off my day with a great workout- It has helped so much with how I feel the rest of the day!
 
What motivates you to continue RUSH?
I love the challenge of the workouts and working at getting new skills/movements. 
 
What are your favorite movements?
I do not necessarily have a favorite movement, but one thing I am shocked by is that after a couple months at RUSH, I surprisingly do not hate burpees anymore- and might even enjoy them a little bit! 
 
What is your favorite RUSH memory?
I have had a lot of fun at Saturday RUSH workouts this summer.  A specific favorite memory was PRing my mile!
 
What is the best advice you can give a fellow RUSH’er? 
The best advice I can give is to do whatever you need to get yourself there.  I am not, and never have been, a morning person, so there are a lot of mornings I definitely struggle to get out of bed and go.  Those mornings though, when I can get myself there, I may struggle at first, but once we all get going and the music is playing, I am always happy I got there! 
 
Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know.
I love everything Maine!

How Did you Start CrossFit? 
A friend convinced me to take a CrossFit bootcamp class back in 2009 when we were living in NC.  I was amazed at my progress in a few short weeks but was too intimidated to try the full CrossFit classes. When I came back to MA a year later I nervously took on-ramp classes at CrossFit Center Mass.  It was definitely what I needed and had been looking for.

What is your favorite part about CrossFit?
There is so much I love but I'll keep it short. The biggest benefit besides fitness is the community.  As someone who grew up playing team sports, I desperately needed a supportive group which are more like friends and family. This is one place where being a strong woman is not looked down upon, but encouraged and respected.  I've met amazing people who have inspired me, cheered me on, kept me laughing, and helped me achieve things I wasn't sure I was capable of, including run a half marathon.

What motivates you to continue CrossFit? 
Knowing where I've been and how far I've come is a huge motivation.  There always seems to be something I can improve upon or a new goal I can set for myself - this is not a stagnant sport. 

What are your favorite movements and favorite WOD? 
Power cleans, rowing, and wall balls are some of the top exercises and I appreciate when they are in a WOD.  My favorite WODs tend to be ones that involve the above movements - but I also really like strongman WODs.

What is your favorite CrossFit memory? 
There are many great memories - when gymnastic movements finally clicked or running a PR with RCF running partners. Most recent my husband said he really enjoys CrossFit.  He just joined in October/November.

What is the best advice you can give a fellow CrossFitter? 
Keep coming. ​We're all playing the long game.  ​Make goals.​  Then tell someone about them.  Just a small bit of support (and accountability) goes a long way.  

​Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know. 
I have a very non-nutritional challenge compliant Instagram baking account.  

How did you start CrossFit?
I was a distance runner in my teens and twenties, but I didn't want to just rely on my legs for fitness, so I started doing CrossFit in 2012.  I realized some time later that I needed some instruction to keep me safe and to be a better athlete, so I joined Resilience in 2017.
 
What is your favorite part about CrossFit?
The community of support. I challenge anyone to find a better fitness community than CrossFit, and the Resilience one in particular is top notch.  From the coaches to the members, there isn't a better way to feel like you're a part of something than when you are all working hard towards the same goal of being fit.
 
What motivates you to continue CrossFit?
There's always new challenges, whether it's going for heavier weights, new gymnastics movements, or faster cardio.  CrossFit itself is always changing as well, but the coaches and even some of the experienced members prepare us for it starting at any skill level.
 
What are your favorite movements and favorite WOD?
I never was a gymnast but I've really taken to the gymnastics, so I'm working to get all the movements and then get better from there. "DT" is my favorite WOD because for a long time for me it was impossible to Rx, but eventually I got the strength up and got it under the cap.  Other than that, the WODs that combine cardio, weight, gymnastics, and a little bit of skill are always the most fun for me.
 
What is your favorite CrossFit memory?
There are many, but the most recent one was with the 300# front squat PR.  Some time ago in a lesson we were all asked to just front rack a very heavy weight and just stand there, nothing more, just stand there and feel the tension.  I did that with about 300# at the time and I thought I would never be able to do anything with that heavy of a weight but just stand there. A year or so later, after a few of these strength cycles, I was back- and front-squatting that same 300#.
 
I was so excited nailing the front-squat PR I didn't even re-rack the bar properly and Tom Viveiros had to unjam one side with 130# of plates from the J-hook while the other side dangled.
 
What is the best advice you can give a fellow CrossFitter?
If you're feeling it then don't be afraid to get after a new movement, a better time, or a heavier weight. You'll impress yourself. Talk to people, be safe, take chances!
 
Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know.
I'm a Software Director and I've lived in London, England, and before that Syracuse, NY and Northern California. I live in Harvard, MA now with my family.  We also have dog, as well as 21 chickens that I raise for eggs. I can make a killer omelet.

How did you start CrossFit?
I was bored at Gold’s Gym, knew I needed to get in shape but hated the cardio equipment and avoided it at all costs. I wanted to find a way to do cardio with out actually going on an elliptical, or treadmill. And I knew I could never make myself do burpees on my own.
 
What is your favorite part about CrossFit?
Hanging out with my friends after a Saturday WOD. Having the support from everyone to tell me to have more confidence in myself when I don’t think I can do something.
 
What motivates you to continue CrossFit?
Definitely Nutella and peanut butter couldn’t eat them if I didn’t have a way of burning it off. Also I want to be stronger. I hate the misconception, outside of CrossFit, that only boys should be strong.
 
What are your favorite movements and favorite WOD?
Pull-ups. Burpee box jumps. My favorite WODs are anything with barbell cycling (except thrusters…)
 
What is your favorite CrossFit memory?
Getting my first bar muscle up.
 
What is the best advice you can give a fellow CrossFitter?
Do RomWod everyday! Learn to move well before you focus on making gains.
 
Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know.
I’ve had 5 knee surgeries for dislocated knee caps. During one of my surgeries something went a little wrong and now I have a weird bump on my shin; I’ve been told it’s actually my muscle. So one could say I have a shin muscle now.

​How did you start CrossFit?
As everyone here knows, workouts at the standard gyms and running on your own can become stagnant and easy to not keep yourself accountable.  Always looked at CrossFit as something I would want to get into and had a few soccer teammates who raved about it.  Loved knowing the workouts were regimented for you ahead of time.  To me, it was like having a personal trainer but with other athletes to push you…and that is exactly what it has been and more.
 
What is your favorite part about CrossFit?
Sounds cliché, but definitely the people.  Of course the gym itself is enviable, coaching is top notch, but like most dynamics, it really depends on the people.  Our 7am Crew is very tight knit and some of the best people  I know.  We talk almost hourly, ha.  Cannot say enough about them.  Also, the ‘Sunday Savages’ – we are all competitive and talk almost daily about workouts and results.
 
What motivates you to continue CrossFit?
I am absolutely one of those people (‘idiots’ might be a better word) who still think they are 25yrs old,  can wake up and run a marathon or do something I probably should not be doing at 36.  Definitely a character flaw, but the second someone says I cannot or should not do something, I immediately want to do it.  Fighting father time is huge motivator as well. I am usually on my phone at 6:01pm each night checking the WOD and excited for the sheer enjoyment of getting the crap kicked out of me each morning.  Also, I am sure you have all seen John at some point screaming obscenities at people during the 7am hour (especially when we partner)…. might be the very definition of motivation.  
 
What are your favorite movements and favorite WOD?
Running, rowing, rope climbs, cleans, double-unders, pull-ups are definitely my favorites.  Love a great double session Saturday Sweatfest with high cardio partner workouts.  Loved doing Murph with our Sunday Savages weight vests.
 
What is your favorite CrossFit memory?
There are a handful, especially with the 7am Crew inside and outside of the gym – but I would have to say when I threw John’s face on a tank top.  I am not a tank top guy (we cannot all look like Drew!) and I got a lot of gruff for never wearing one for Tank Top Tuesday; so I figured that would be the best way to finally show up with one.  Also, everyone during this past Open who gave pointers on movements I had never attempted before but somehow pieced them together on the fly…lots of good people at this gym.
 
What is the best advice you can give a fellow CrossFitter?
Do not worry about what others are doing and try to work on weaknesses.  Obviously always try to push yourself but do not try and lift the most, finish the fastest, and win at everything.  Work on technique and getting better, that is what is most important in the long run.  Damn, I should really take my own advice…
 
Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know.
People who know me, know I eat like an 8 year old in general, but I eat applesauce with almost every meal.  Pasta, chicken, steak, potato chips, etc.  Been eating it since I was a baby, and will be when I am an old man and the only thing I can eat!

How did you start CrossFit?
Prior to joining Resilience, nearly two years ago, I had fallen into a routine of frequent cardio (running mostly) and limited weight training.  It became a chore to get to the gym or to go out a run and I was looking for something to break out of the rut. That was coupled with some serious personal challenges I was going through and I wanted to make a change beyond exercise.  I’ve been athletic all of my life and fitness has been one of several dimensions I’ve turned to in life as a way for achievement.  In fitness or other pursuits I’ve had experiences where I’ve reached for something, put in the work and was able to change. It simply reminds me that there is more I can do and I get gratification from the results, especially, when the work is hard. Two years ago I needed that change more than ever. I had a limited knowledge of Crossfit through watching the CrossFit Games on television. I also saw a few workouts at a box in Auburn. The variety and intensity intrigued me, but I thought I was too old and lacked the knowledge to try it.  What I hadn’t seen on television was the coaching. When I finally drove to Hopkinton to inquire in person I was told about Elements and I learned that I’d have help and guidance and wouldn’t be on my own.
 
What is your favorite part about CrossFit?
CrossFit has delivered on the variety and intensity I was seeking and I enjoy that without question. Every session there can be something new. My favorite part is the coaching.  CrossFit Resilience is second to none.  I travel for a living and have been to CrossFit in 10 cities. We are so fortunate, not only to have the best CrossFit facility by far among the ones I’ve seen, but our coaches are exceptional.  If it was not for them, I wouldn’t have had the confidence to try the things I do reflexively today and I know I wouldn’t have made the progress I have.  Because of their care, consistency and guidance, I’ve been able to safely progress and I love the way I feel. I’m also continuing to grow with CrossFit. I achieved two PR’s last month and they weren’t measured by a barbell rather they were for pull ups and DU’s. I have gotten much stronger and fit in 22 months of Crossfit adding over 100 pounds on squat cleans for instance but it wasn’t translating as much into gymnastics. I was stuck on a rep count until one of our coaches came by and pointed out, again, some fundamentals to me (sometimes I’m not the best listener) and he stood with me and kept repeating one word – “Relax.”  1 minute later I hit 25 DU’s.  I truly believe there isn’t a plateau or rut out there in CrossFit especially if you take advantage of the knowledge and experience of our coaches.  
 
What motivates you to continue CrossFit?
That’s an easy one – It’s the way I feel, the people I’ve gotten to work with and our beautiful facility. I call it ours because I feel part of it.  Resilience is more than just a gym and Crossfit is more than just exercise.  I continue to enjoy my own transformation but I’ve also gotten to see so many other people transform. There was woman in who attends Resilience wearing a shirt that had the saying “if nothing changes….nothing changes”.  I agree.  Had I not joined two years ago, I wouldn’t feel the way I do today.
 
What are your favorite movements and favorite WOD?
I used to love Bench Press day because I can press a good amount for an old guy  and not deal with my personal frustration of not being able to do a power clean or overhead squat.  Now those complex moves are my favorite because they underscore how far I’ve come and how much more I can do.  I’m not doing giant weight for OHS – in fact I just graduated from the empty bar about 5 months ago. But I can do them now and with weight on the bar.  My lack of mobility and ability with that movement is almost a memory and that excites me. My favorite WOD so far is MURPH.  I got to do Murph with my son who is heading to the Marine Corps as an officer when he graduates from college and the reverence for veterans and others that CrossFit displays through Hero WOD’s mean a great deal to me. It was special to do Murph with my son.
 
What is your favorite CrossFit memory?
So far it’s the learning.  I can’t believe what I know in such a short time and I know there is still so much to learn.
 
What is the best advice you can give a fellow CrossFitter?
Try it and scale it until you can do it.  And you will do it. Listen to our coaches. I played Division 1 college soccer and had a strength and conditioning coach but I never picked a barbell off the ground until 22 months ago. Because I’ve been taught the right and safe way to do things and was made to feel comfortable to go at a rate that was right for a beginner, I, at 50 years old, can do many of the WOD’s at the Performer RX.  Many but not all. I still need to put the work in to get to that consistent performer level but I plan to keep trying.
 
Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know.
A favorite hobby is playing guitar and performing.  I was in a band for years and still get out to the local establishments to play an acoustic set once in a while.

​How did you start CrossFit?
I was looking for a way to change up my workout routine and a previous RCF member, McCall, told me I should join her for a few classes and after my first one I was hooked.
 
What is your favorite part about CrossFit?
The variance in movements and types of workouts that we see. You never know what the coaches are going to throw at you on any given day and for someone who can get bored and unmotivated easily this is perfect. You always have the opportunity to test yourself.
 
What motivates you to continue CrossFit?
Apart from the progress I have never experienced with any other type of fitness activity it would be the great community Crossfit has, but more specifically our community here at Resilience. We have the perfect balance of all types of personalities that continue to push each other while keeping it fun.
 
What are your favorite movements and favorite WOD?
My favorite movements would have to be most of the gymnastics movements like bar muscle ups, HSPU, and pull-ups. My favorite WOD’s would be any that have deadlifts and although it’s an unpopular opinion, running.
 
What is your favorite CrossFit memory?
One of my favorite memories is the 2017 holiday party, the first one at the new box. It was such a good time and it is always great to meet others who you may not see in your usual class.
 
What is the best advice you can give a fellow CrossFitter?
Don’t ever let yourself get discouraged during any workout. You may not always be one of the fastest or strongest, but you can always be the one working the hardest and that is how you make progress.
 
Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know.
As part of a work assignment I had the opportunity to live in London, England where I travelled every chance I could all around Europe and parts of Asia.

How did you start CrossFit?
One of my good friends joined CrossFit and I tagged along to "bring a friend day" for about a year or so. I loved the workouts, but I did not want to commit to that specific gym. At the time, the woman I was working out with, used to work with Drew and Brooks - so whenever I talked about joining CrossFit, she would rave about RCF and the coaches. With her persuasion,  I made the decision to join and not surprisingly, she was right - I was sold on RCF after the first class.

What is your favorite part about CrossFit?
How accomplished you feel knowing that you were able to push yourself to a new level alongside great people.

What motivates you to continue CrossFit?
Motivation comes on a few levels; 1. I LOVE to eat, so I HAVE to workout to balance my appetite. 2. Measurable results. Whether it be in accomplishing a PR, beating a previous time in a benchmark workout, or simply feeling good about yourself - it is easy to look back at where I started and compare to where I am now and, not only see, but feel improvement. 3. Working out within a community of people that push you harder than you would push yourself. 

What are your favorite movements and favorite WOD?
Favorite WODs: Crazy ones that push you; the long grind. Movements: wall balls, DU and squat cleans. 

What is your favorite CrossFit memory?
My favorite memory is more of a reflection of my overall experience. I remember when I first started CrossFit, after a workout I would recover rather quickly. One night once the workout was over, someone in the class looked at me and said (of course in the nicest way possible) "If you are recovering that quickly, you are not pushing yourself hard enough." I remember thinking, there is no possible way I could push myself harder, but thank you - well, was I wrong. Eventually, pushing myself to a new level made so much sense and I finally understood exactly the feeling they were trying to portray all that time ago. Reaching a level where you personally feel you are pushing yourself, while surrounded by people, who have become great friends, pushing themselves to their own level - I would consider that my favorite. 

What is the best advice you can give a fellow CrossFitter?
Coming from someone who has zero patience; my advice would be to have patience with yourself and confidence in your own ability. Not every movement will come as easy as you want it to, but if you are persistent and continue to challenge yourself, you will accomplish goals you never thought possible. Frustration is easy, overcoming frustration and getting out of your comfort zone is not, and that is what it takes to personally conquer CrossFit.

Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know.
I am a Registered Dietitian and work in school nutrition.

​How did you start CrossFit?
For as far back as I can remember, I have been a competitive person. I played soccer my whole life and always enjoyed running despite having two knee surgeries. When I was 25, I found a challenging gym in Shrewsbury that changed the way I worked out and made be a better athlete. After 4 years, I “gym shopped” but never found a comparative gym. I ended up at a strength and conditioning facility where everyone just worked out to say they worked out. I found myself digressing and knew I had to make a change. My friends always suggested CrossFit knowing it was competitive, but I was totally that person that thought I would get hurt even more. I didn't realize that each CrossFit was individually owned and programmed. Christa Rebidue was equally frustrated with the gym we were at and her sister Sabine suggested coming to the CrossFit open house in September. We went with minimal intentions of joining, but after seeing the amazing new facility, trainers and programs that were offered, we decided to give it a go. We started in November, and I think after the second workout I knew I would be a permeant member. 4 months later and I am just mad that I didn’t start sooner.
 
What is your favorite part about CrossFit?
The trainers/programming. They are motivating and know their stuff. I like how they’re big on form and would rather someone use less weight and do it right. They’re constantly asking about my injuries, and suggesting modifications. They truly want everyone to get a great workout and become better athletes. Also, the community. I was nervous coming into a huge gym where everyone was already long time members and friends. After hopping the classes, I think I am officially a 7amer! Everyone has been so welcoming and helpful. It’s nice to see everyone push each other. I feel like I have made huge improvements in a short amount of time and it’s definitely due to the trainers and the community.
 
What motivates you to continue CrossFit?
Wanting to get better. There is always something new to learn or something to get better at. I feel like if you want to get better at something, all you need to do is practice. Butterfly pull-ups and TTB are next on my list. 
 
What are your favorite movements and favorite WOD?
Hmm.. deadlifts, rowing and now the ski erg is high up on the list. Both machines you can train at and improve at pretty easily. WOD – really enjoying the Thursday conditioning pieces Brooks has been putting together. 
 
What is your favorite CrossFit memory?
Training for Crash B’s with everyone was a really good experience. Also, watching someone hit a PR or finally get a movement they’ve been working on is exciting and fun to watch.
 
What is the best advice you can give a fellow CrossFitter?
Unsure I can give out advice being 4 months in, but I would say work at your weakness. Don’t skip the classes where there are movements you aren’t great at. Also, listen to your body and do what you can. Everyone is at a different fitness level and the coaches cater to each and every person.
 
Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know.
I meal prep for people on the side (this is not a plug!)

​How did you start CrossFit?
We are a very active family and have a saying “No friends on powder days.” Normally, that wasn’t a problem as I keep up with everyone. A few winters ago, snowboarding in some epic Colorado powder, I found myself with no friends - I could not get myself out of the deep powder I had fallen into. I also was completely lost in the back country because those...... lovely family members left me, and laughed when I found them over 2 hours later. There was a backpacking incident as well, but I’ll save that story for another time.
 
A friend of mine has had amazing results through her box in Westboro, even working out during cancer treatments. If she could kick cancer’s butt, I could kick my family’s butt. Rens Hayes (IV, not his baby VII)and Alan Connell, sons-in-laws of my friends, also seemed to be kicking butt. They convinced me to give it a try.
 
What is your favorite part about CrossFit?
That my 9 am’ers do not kick my butt when I heckle them. Which leads me into the camaraderie - I mean, my family HAS to put up with me, but you guys don’t. So thanks for that.  And the coaches are amazing, but you know that.
 
What motivates you to continue CrossFit?
I’ve never felt better and the sense of accomplishment I get after every class.
 
What are your favorite movements and favorite WOD?
Box jumps! Oh, and air squats. And maybe goblet squats. Things with squats.
 
What is your favorite CrossFit memory?
Becoming Athlete of the Month!
 
What is the best advice you can give a fellow CrossFitter?
Don’t forget to wear a tank top on Tuesdays. Also, have fun! 
 
Tell us something about yourself (NOT fitness related) that others might not know.
I have skied for 50 years and snowboarded for over 25 years. Also, I may be related to Eminem.

I started at CFR 4 years ago (almost to the day). Prior to 1997, I always thought I was pretty fit. I played, coached, and refereed soccer and enjoyed the occasional hike and bike ride. The thought of going to a gym seemed so unnecessary and unappealing. I always felt fit. In 2014, I was about to begin to understand that my previous feeling of being fit was a delusional state of mind.

A few months into 2013 I had come to accept that I had become too obese to continue playing. I was aware that the added weight and lack of other exercise was contributing to the frequent injury to my ankles and knees. I vowed I would not return unless I lost 40 pounds. I was beginning to wonder if I'd be able to walk without pain in my retirement years.

So what brought me to CFR? For two years, my wife Janet and son Nate, both Crossfitters (at Sobo, now Pennant), had been bugging me to join their box. I visited their box in Southborough and didn’t like the smell of the air from off-gassing of the rubber mats covering the floor nor lying on them. In January of 2014, Nate suggested we plan on doing a Spartan Race together. Only problem, we all knew I would have to get in much better shape to live through the ordeal and I only had 6 months. He suggested we check out CrossFit Resilience making me aware that it was only 800 meters away from my house. We met Drew and toured the facility. I liked the variety and abundance of equipment, the type flooring material used, and the apparent care taken to clean and maintain the box. I decided to give the Elements a try; after a few classes with Dan and Brooks, I was hooked.

By the time the Spartan Race arrived I felt reasonably ready, though I was pretty disappointed that after 6 months of CrossFit, had resulted in me losing only about 12 pounds. But we all finished the race, jumping the burning logs together.

I managed to trim a few more pounds by the end of the year. Then along came the 2015 Paleo Challenge! It was the Dananators vs. the other half of the participants. This was a life-changing event for me. I now had a team-based, competitive reason, to develop more disciplined eating habits and to win a few bucks too. With this challenge, I took the opportunity to weigh and track my caloric intake and set a goal to lose 2 pounds per week. Within 14 months after starting with CFR, I had dropped a total of 50 pounds, and had become more fit than I had been in 40 years. As I promised my soccer teammates, I returned to play at the start of the 2015 season, now being able to run circles around them.

I’ve come to realize my primary CrossFit goal is to focus more on maintaining my strength, fitness, and resilience the best I can for as long as I can, rather than trying for another PR. My favorite work-out activities are deadlifts, hang power cleans, back squats, and sit-ups. When I started, I was barely able to do one sit-up. Now it's one of the few movements of a WOD where I feel like I'm getting a rest.

The only advice I can offer CrossFitters (particularly newbies and senior citizens): don't be hesitant to scale the work-out to the level that best suits your goals each day. It's more important to just keep moving.

“Resilience” is the perfect description of what our box represents. Indeed, I may often feel battered and bruised, but am thankful for our coaches who are always flexible and helping me to never feel broken. Resilience is the perfect name for our box.