The Member Spotlight showcases those who demonstrate the characteristics necessary for success, both in and out of the gym. Nate is a newer member to the tribe but works his ass off and has been a staple of the 5:30am early riser class. We asked him some questions about his fitness journey at the gym so far: 1. What led you to CrossFit? Describe your experience? Well, I moved to Phoenix this April for a job just across the way and couldn’t help but notice people carrying kettlebells up to our receiving door. I’ve never been athletic, or even worked out at all, but I decided it was time for a change. So, I came in and met James. Although I was a bit skeptical at first, he was super welcoming and talked me into the trial week. From day 1, I was hooked, and thanks to all the encouragement from the coaches and other members, it makes it easy to continue, I’m really proud to be a part of the tribe.2. What have been the most significant changes you've noticed? These could be lifestyle, body composition, or performance. The biggest change for me so far has been just feeling like I have a lot more energy in my everyday life. Kicking off my day by getting my butt kicked in the gym makes the rest of the day a breeze. Inside the gym, I find myself finishing workouts I wouldn’t have thought possible 2 months ago, and even participated in my first competition at The Duel in the Desert. Getting to compete and cheer on the rest of the athletes in an event that was all for a great cause was an unbelievable experience, and I look forward to hopefully competing again soon. 3. What's your favorite (or least favorite) exercise? If you could program a workout, what would it be? My least favorite exercises would be running and jumping rope, as a big guy these tend to be a bit too high impact for me (for now). I prefer movements that I can continue to push through even when I’m dead tired. If I had to program a workout it would probably be a mix of rowing, my favorite cardio, and some weightlifting like maybe cleans or deadlifts. 4. Tell us something we don't know about you! Something not fitness related. When I was 17, I dropped out of school and left home to travel with the carnival. I spent the next few years traveling the east coast working carnival games, pimping out teddy bears, and probably having a little too much fun. Life on the road had its ups and downs for sure, but it was a great learning experience and made for a ton of crazy stories. 5. What's next? Have you set any goals for the future? Since I attempted the Murph in my 1st week my goal has been to actually finish it next year, but in the meantime, I’m working on getting closer to all the Rx movements. Mostly, I’m just looking to stay motivated and maybe even bring my diet in line with my newfound healthy lifestyle.
