The Member Spotlight showcases those who demonstrate the characteristics necessary for success, both in and out of the gym. Rocky has been a long-time member of the gym, and not only sits near the top of each day’s leaderboard, he’s also a decorated National Medalist in the Masters category of USA Weightlifting. We asked him some questions about his CrossFit journey:
- What led you to CrossFit? Describe your experience.
I found CrossFit in 2010 when I needed to lose weight and to get my blood pressure and cholesterol down. After two years into it and eating clean, I was able to get off all medications. Then I was introduced to the sport of Weightlifting and started competing in 2015. Even 10 years into this, I’m still getting better all the time.
- What have been the most significant changes you've noticed? These could be lifestyle, body composition, or performance.
I can lift and do movements that when I broke my neck that I wouldn’t have thought I could have done with my back issues. I think CrossFit has absolutely helped improve my Weightlifting ability, and my ability to recover after tough workouts. I continue to hit PR’s in the lifts.
- What's your favorite (or least favorite) exercise? If you could program a workout, what would it be?
As a Weightlifter, Snatches are my favorite lift. As a CrossFitter, anything with a rower and a barbell in the workout is good with me.
- Tell us something we don't know about you! Something not fitness related.
I grew up on a ranch in Idaho, and that’s where I learned to ride horses and started doing rodeos (rode bucking horses, rode bulls but mostly team roped). My parents taught me how to dance at 8 years old and I started teaching at 15. I was the youngest person to get into bars so I could teach dancing.
- What's next? Have you set any goals for the future?
I have been to two Masters Nationals for Weightlifting. I injured myself this last year and have been working hard in training to compete in my third one this April in Orlando. My goal is to hit at least a 240kg Total.
