Member of the Month:
Marin Cerchez
Name:
Marin Cerchez
Age:
43
From:
I grew up in Moldova. It is a small country in Europe that had been occupied by the Soviets (Russia) until 1991 when the Soviet Union collapsed. Also I grew up in a large city (about 1,000,000 inhabitants) but I like suburban/rural areas like Allendale a lot.
Member Since:
August, 2018.
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What was your athletic background, if any? I did not have any particular previous athletic background. When in middle and high school I liked and would do running, swimming, “fox” (radio transmitter) hunting and handball. After graduating from high school, I had a break for almost 20 years. Then 5 years ago I started doing Krav Maga and gradually getting back into some sort of a shape. My last two years have been the best in that respect.
What led you to Crossfit and CFA specifically?
Prior to my coming to Allendale I practiced Krav Maga (a military self-defence and fighting system) and we used a CrossFit Gym in Fort Wayne, Indiana. So, I would see crossfitters training for some time but never tried it myself. When I moved to Allendale I was looking for a place to work out and I found CFA. I tried it and liked it a lot. I also liked the coaches a lot.
What do you do when you're not at CFA? I am a pastor at St. John Lutheran Church (48th and Fillmore). I also have a wife and two kids. So, when I am not doing church work I spend my free time with my family. We like travelling and exploring new places. I also like reading biographies and watching detective movies.
When did you realize that CrossFit is right for you? After trying it for a couple of weeks in August, 2018.
Do you remember your first WOD? Not the name. But something with burpees, wall balls and kettlebells.
What movement do you despise over everything and why?
There is no particular movement I despise. I find burpees challenging, so I both love burpees and hate them.
What has been your all-time favorite moment at CFA?
The day when we resumed our workouts after the COVID-19 lockdown.
What motivates you during a tough workout? Other people who are working out around me. Camaraderie. The coaches. I would not do a tough workout on my own.
What are your goals going forward and what do you think will help you achieve them?
My goals are to be as fit and healthy as possible at my age. I think my commitment to regular exercise and a healthy diet should help.
What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health, and fitness or just day to day life since starting CrossFit (before/after?)
I have become stronger in general. My core and back have got stronger. I run much better. My blood pressure is now much better. My body is sore all the time.
What would you recommend to someone who is just starting out with CrossFit or is too afraid to try it?
I would recommend not to be intimidated by other people’s speed and strength in the gym. Choose your own pace and scale any WOD if you need. The most important thing is to keep moving and you will get there.
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 am motivated by Ted. I like his commitment.
Quick Questions Favorite Cheat Meal: Cheeseburger
Favorite workout song: N/A
Favorite place you have traveled: Oxford University, United Kingdom
Favorite Tv Show: MythBusters on the Discovery Channel
Favorite CrossFit Athlete (if any): Everyone who shows up day after day at CFA
Coach's comment: This month marks Marin’s 2 year CFA anniversary which makes it the perfect time for him to be our member of the month. Marin consistently walks into CFA with a smile on his face and ready to do whatever the wod calls for. Plus he is one of the most friendly people around the gym. We are happy to have him as a part of our CFA family!