What do you do when you're not at CFA? I really enjoy competition in general. I grew up playing any and all sports I could. I am always interested in learning a new one. I love chill nights with my wife, Leah, and two kids, Eden 13, and Wade 11. We love playing board games, video games, and fishing. My family and I have really been trying to be more diligent in our faith as well. We serve with the youth program at one of the local churches and are being more diligent about our spiritual fitness, specifically reading from our Bibles everyday.
What led you to Crossfit and CFA specifically?
My older brother had actually mentioned it to me years before I started. It wasn’t until a pretty girl (who is now my wife) at church invited me to one of the bring-a-friend Saturday WOD’s. I really enjoyed the challenge and the cleanse you get from working out.
When did you realize that CrossFit is right for you? Like I said, I really enjoy the sense of competition you can have at each WOD. Once you’ve been around a bit you begin to take note of those names on the board who have similar times as you and check them to see how you did. I work in manual labor and I really started noticing the difference, not only in what I could lift, but how I would lift it. Learning and applying proper form/technique.
Romans 5:3
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope…”
So the suffering we all endure makes us stronger. And we crossfitters do “glory in our suffering”
What movement do you despise over everything and why?
I really don’t like weighted box step-overs. I am not tall and the 24 inch box is higher for me than many other athletes. Lifting my foot to the top of the box is pretty much full range of motion for me, then having to step up with added weight makes it difficult. I’d take 3x the amount of box jumps/overs every time!
What has been your all-time favorite moment at CFA?
I really enjoy seeing when the community comes together to support each other. There have been several fundraisers put on through CFA to help some of the families or their loved ones. It's really great to see the love and support for one another.
Galatians 6:2
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
What motivates you during a tough workout? I really try to keep in mind that the everyday workouts are when you get stronger and better conditioned. These are the times to push your redline into new heights. Everyone hates the uncomfort of your body telling you that you are taxed, but it’s being able to push just a little bit harder in these moments when you can really make a difference in your growth. Honestly during some of the real tough one’s I do think of what Jesus did for us on his way to the cross and remind myself that he was also a man like us and yet could endure the physical strain that was the journey to the cross.
If you could write your own workout for a day, what would it be?
I really enjoy the WODs with some cardio, then having to gather yourself, take a deep breath, and hit a rep or a few of a heavier weight. Something like:
400m run, 15 BJO, 60 DU, 1 Clean (power or squat) @ 80-85% 1RM. OR 3 Cleans @ like 70-75%
What are your goals going forward and what do you think will help you achieve them?
Really just improving from year to year. Moving up the leaderboard at some of the comps we do. Continue to push that redline in training.
What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health, and fitness or just day to day life since starting CrossFit?
Mobility has certainly gotten better since starting. I remember not even being able to hit full squat depth when I started. Also, the very awkward journey of trying to squat while holding a PVC overhead.
What would you recommend to someone who is just starting out with CrossFit?
Do your best to stay consistent. No shame in scaling. Just because you’re scaling doesn’t mean you aren’t working as hard as the RX crew. You may be giving 100% effort while they are giving 90. Mobility and technique before strength. Having the proper mobility and technique is far more important than being able to throw around big weight.
If you could have one skill or characteristic of another member at CFA what and from whom would it be? Or which other CFA member are you the most motivated by?
Skill/strength: My shoulder strength/overhead is my weakest area, specifically strict press. That being said it would drastically improve my overall if I had some shoulder like Mark Schmidt! He’s pressing what I’m power cleaning!
Quick Questions Favorite Cheat meal: Pizza!
Favorite Workout song: “Next Move” Hyper Fenton
Favorite Place You Have Traveled: Yosemite National Park
Favorite TV Show: The Chosen
Favorite CrossFit Games Athlete: Rich Froning, Scott Panchik, Gui Malheiros, Lukas Parker
Coach's comment: Bobby was an easy pick for Member of the Month. He’s been with us so long we often joke how nobody knows when he actually started. Bobby's commitment to his fitness journey has been nothing short of inspiring, demonstrating perseverance and a passion that sets him apart. Through countless WODs and challenging workouts, Bobby has consistently shown up, pushed his limits, and embraced the CrossFit spirit. He has improved every element of his fitness since the beginning. We also appreciate the positive energy he brings to our community. Keep up the great work Bobby, we are thankful to have you at CFA!