What do you do when you're not at CFA? I work at Allendale True Value and spend as much time as I can with my wife and three kids.
What led you to Crossfit and CFA specifically?
I was looking for a way to stay motivated in my health journey and kept driving past CFA on my way to our shop next door. Then one of my co-workers asked if I’d be interested in trying it out with him to keep each other accountable. It didn’t work out for him but I’ve been coming more and more ever since.
When did you realize that CrossFit is right for you? I’m a competitive person who always wants to do something all the way. Once I realized that the best way to beat the burn and soreness of a tough workout was to get back in the gym and keep working out I knew I had found the right thing for me. It’s a now a bit of an addiction.
What movement do you despise over everything and why?
Up until recently I would have said burpees, but I’ve just begun to realize that wall balls are the worst. They make me sore for days at a time. While burpees are miserable while I’m doing them, I still walk out of the gym without much cringing afterwards. Also not a huge fan of thrusters.
What has been your all-time favorite moment at CFA?
We were doing 100 target burpees and Josh said “if you can do one you can do 100.” This makes no sense but felt motivating at the time. Funniest thing was Steve during a death by burpees workout. He was doing his assault bike calories in the two minute window. He suddenly jumped off the bike and said “F** It” then turned around and pedaled hard to try and complete the round after all.
What motivates you during a tough workout? The encouragement I receive from others is a huge motivator. Either from people working out around me or from the coaches cheering me on.
If you could write your own workout for a day, what would it be?
I’d combine my three favorite movements in some way. Running, rowing and bench. 4 rounds for time: 400M Run, 10 bench press, 500M rowing
What are your goals going forward and what do you think will help you achieve them?
My biggest goal is to stay healthy and in shape to be there for my family. I want to interact and play with my kids as they grow up and make sure I’m as healthy as possible to be there for them as long as I can.
What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health, and fitness or just day to day life since starting CrossFit?
I have a lot more stamina and energy in my day to day. Also, my body is stronger all around -I can leave workouts without feeling pain and ready to run laps with my 4 and 2 year old. On top of that I keep seeing progress towards my goal weight.
What would you recommend to someone who is just starting out with CrossFit?
Make the commitment and just keep showing up. Even when it’s painful at least you’re doing it and it’s completely worth it in the long run.
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?
I’m motivated by Kris because the guy gets up early for boot camp and then comes to the normal class in the afternoons. He does two a days three days a week which is total commitment and amazing!
Quick Questions Favorite Cheat meal: Buffalo Chicken Pizza -my wife makes it heavy on the chicken though so a high protein cheat.
Favorite Workout song: anything Eminem
Favorite Place You Have Traveled:
Allendale, MI or any True Value
Favorite TV Show: Parks & Rec, The Office, Suits, White Collar
Favorite CrossFit Athlete(if any): Mat Fraser
Coach's comment: If you don’t recognize Brett from CFA, you more than likely recognize him from True Value. The man knows where every part for every project is in the entire store!! We are thankful Brett joined us over two years ago and he has been a regular ever since. Since then he has gotten stronger & faster and lost a good amount of weight. We always appreciate his positive attitude and friendly spirit. Brett is a great part of our community, picking him for August’s member of the month was a no brainer!!!