ATHLETE OF THE MONTH FOR JULY
TODD E.
Tell us a little bit about yourself…
Nice of Geo to lead off with an awkward job interview question. So I’ve lived in DC for the last 15 years after growing up and going to school in the Midwest. I started working for a bank in Baltimore a couple years ago and just haven’t made the move up here yet. I only hang out with you guys on weeknights to avoid traffic. When I’m not at work or doing Crossfit I spend time drinking bourbon and craft beer, doing a little volunteer work, binge watching HBO and AMC shows, catching up with friends and being sore from Crossfit.
What has changed since starting CrossFit?
Well, there’s definitely less of me which is a good thing. I started about a year ago and am pretty surprised about how consistent I’ve been in making it in 3-4 times a week. I actually look forward to exercising now. I tried a lot of different things in recent years in an attempt to get myself interested in fitness again but none of them worked. They all seemed like chores and I just didn’t exercise much. A year ago I was much more likely to be on my couch or at a neighborhood bar after work so the lifestyle change has been great.
What do you enjoy about CrossFit Federal Hill?
The team environment and the encouragement everyone provides each other. I could never come close to pushing myself like this on my own. I have a pretty solid track record of finishing WODs last or close to it and people that are far superior athletes to me seem to be the first to tell me nice job. The coaches are all really knowledgeable and friendly (well, now that you finally got rid of Buck). It’s also my only real connection to the city outside of work so it’s been great to get to know more people the more time I spend at CFH.
How has CrossFit effected your life outside the gym?
Well, day-to-day I have a lot more energy and just feel better. Pushing myself physically like this definitely makes me happier and more confident. I turn 40 in a few months so feeling way better physically is definitely helping to soften the blow a bit. It also makes me very optimistic that I can improve my fitness as I get older. I’ve still got a long way to go but some of the things I was able to do in my 20’s like running distance races and climbing at altitude are at least back on my mental radar now. Hoping to do a race this year and a climb next summer.
Favorite movement?
Deadlifts and rowing.
Least favorite movement?
Pulls ups, squat snatches, burpees. I can keep going…
Any advice for people who are just getting started at CFH?
Try not to get overwhelmed or intimidated by what everyone around you is doing. It’s easy to look at the strongest or fastest person in the class and say I’ll never be able to do that. No one cares how strong or fast you are. Everyone just wants each other to improve. Just focus on whatever you’re doing that day and don’t be shy about asking questions. I’ve yet to see an instance of people in the class or coaches being anything but friendly and helpful. The coaches do most of the thinking for you. Just keep showing up. Your body will adjust after a couple months and the technical aspects will eventually become easier.
Skill WOD
5 High Box Jumps
4 Rounds
**Partner Glute ham raises can be scaled by not going all the way to the floor (using plates to stop yourself) or by scaling to a glute bridge. Use an ab mat for your knees**
WOD
15 Front Squats
400 M Run
3 Rounds
Fitness 95/65
RX 155/105
RX+ 175/115
Compare your time to May 20th, same amount of reps and running, but a different rep scheme. How will your time compare?
A few big life events happening with a few members of CFH!
A huge Congrats to Crump and Carley on their new addition! Wyatt James Crump!
