Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I grew up and went to college in Connecticut. After undergrad, I moved out to Madison for a job and have been here for the last 8 years. In terms of likes/hobbies outside of CrossFit, I’m a huge sports fan (Yankees and Minnesota Vikings are my teams), I love going to concerts, and love going out to all of the great restaurants in Madison.
Why did you choose Recursive?
When I met with Nikole to discuss my interest, everything I heard about Recursive was exactly what I was looking for. What stood out to me was the accountability here. I also appreciated the no-nonsense attitude, as that is something that jives well with me.
What is your favorite thing about working out at Recursive?
In my opinion and experience, the workouts we do here are a lot harder than what I’ve seen at other CrossFit gyms, and I mean that in the best way possible. I love the feeling after a Recursive workout knowing that I pushed myself that day and no matter what else happened throughout that day, that was an accomplishment and something I could be proud of. I also appreciate the coaches and their ability to get the most out of us in these workouts, and also their willingness to share feedback when they see areas to improve.
What was the biggest struggle you’ve had the last few months?
I’m sure this is going to be similar for a lot of folks, but getting back to the swing of things after the pandemic has definitely felt odd, given that most things are now fully open again. Personally, I’m still trying to find that balance between wanting to go out and do things I haven’t been able to do in almost a year and a half, but also still being safe.
What is your biggest accomplishment since starting your commitment to a lifestyle change?
Finishing Murph was huge to me. I did have to scale a bit, but that’s one of those CrossFit workouts I’ve always heard about and thought “Is this something I could actually do?”. Finishing that workout this Memorial Day was a great feeling as it really pushed me to my limits and I was still able to get through it.
How has Recursive changed your life?
Like I alluded to before, these workouts are way harder than ones I’ve done in the past. As a result, that’s shown me that I can push myself harder than I initially thought I could coming into Recursive. With that has come a boost in confidence. Also, I’ve definitely noticed myself feeling better and stronger anecdotally.
What advice do you have for people who are nervous to get started?
Seriously, don’t be nervous! I know it can be intimidating getting into CrossFit (I certainly was nervous when I first got involved), but as long as you’re willing to work and put in the effort, that’s the most important thing. CrossFit really is for any level of fitness. The coaches are there to push you, and I’d always encourage someone new to CrossFit to put in their full effort and to make yourself feel uncomfortable, otherwise you’re never going to grow. With all of that said, if you’re not confident in a movement, or maybe you’re particularly sore that day, it’s totally OK to take a step back and do less weight, scale a workout, etc. if you’re just not up to it that day. Don’t dictate what you’re doing in a workout based on what other people are doing. The coaches doing a good job of helping with that and voicing their opinions, or just letting you know it’s OK to take a bit off that day.
What is something else fun you’d like to share about yourself?
A couple of years back I was able to go on my sabbatical to Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. It was the best trip I’ve been on, and I’d be more than happy to share recommendations for anyone interested in any of those places.