Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you, Mr. Chris Olson. CrossFit CrownTown’s May 2013 Athlete of the Month.
We asked Chris a few questions:
CFCT: Why did you join CrossFit CrownTown?
Chris: I started CrossFit CrownTown because I was tired of feeling weak, out of shape and I just needed a change. I had heard about CrossFit for the past couple of years before I actually started, and with some nudging by a few, I gave it a shot. After my first workout I understood why it had such a great reputation.
CFCT: What was your life like before CrossFit CrownTown? How did you feel emotionally? Physically?
Chris: Before I started CrownTown I didn’t do that much, and had years with nothing. Going to a gym or cycling once in a while was about it. I had torn my ACL and MCL years ago riding dirt bikes. It has since worn through to bone on bone and arthritis has set in. My back is stiff from spinal scoliosis, which is an unnatural curve of the spine. I’ve never had any pain from it, but it definitely feels like it limits my range of motion. Needless to say when I started I was weak, and had some bad mobility issues.
Chris before joining CrossFit CrownTown in July of 2012 weighing 172 pounds at 27% bodyfat.
Chris now weighs in at 136 pounds at a lean 11% bodyfat.
CFCT: What results have you seen since joining CrossFit CrownTown? Has it helped you overcome any mental barriers?
Chris: In my first 6 months I’ve lost 25lbs since I’ve started. I’m stronger, leaner, more flexible and more confident since I’ve joined Crossfit CrownTown. I’m amazed but not surprised with how I’ve been progressing because I’ve been dedicated to working hard, following instruction from the fantastic coaching staff, and eating properly. Due to increased strength in my legs, my knee doesn’t hurt consistently like it used to.
CFCT: How has pushing yourself and challenging yourself in your daily workouts translated to your career? Your family life and relationships?
Chris: I’ve noticed by challenging myself in the daily workouts that I have changes that need to occur in my personal life, because of how much more I can push myself. I recognize that I’m improving and that I’m stronger, mentally and physically, than I used to be. That’s what keeps me coming back. I’m confident that with more hard work, dedication, and persistence I will continue to progress.
To add a few comments of my own, I selected Chris as the Athlete of the Month for several reasons. Chris obviously has had life changing results and that’s enough in itself. However, this guy is always positive, never gives up, roots on everyone else, stays after class to work on weaknesses, stretch, and, sometimes hits another workout with the BaseFit crew. Needless to say, if you’ve worked out in the evening you know who Chris is. He’s that guy who is never in a bad mood, he never makes excuses and he always gives it 100%. He’s got some physical limitations, as he mentioned, but that doesn’t slow him down. Chris is an inspiration to us all and he’s a cherished member of our tight knit CrownTown community. I’d also like to give a shout out to Coach Sarah for working closely with Chris these past 7 months.
Your coach,
WW
Chris doing a workout we put together for him with Deadlifts, Kettlebell Swings, and Sit-ups, some of his favorite movements.
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