Q: How did you find out about Ballston CrossFit (BCF) and what convinced you to join the gym?

During my house hunting trip in July 2020, I dropped into a few gyms in the area. Of those drop-ins, the BCF coaches were the most knowledgeable and welcoming. A mix of that interaction and the availability of class times, both scheduled classes and open gym times, made it an easy choice to join!

Q: What stopped you from joining the gym sooner?

I lived in Iowa. Not very commutable. 

Q: When did you start at BCF and what goals did you set when you joined?

August 2020. I had no specific goals in mind when joining but that changed with the OG 4:30pm crew. I always wanted to deadlift 500lbs and have a heavy back squat (I was stuck at 360lbs). Consistency over the past 5 years has helped me hit a 500lb deadlift and a 425lb back squat. As a side quest, I can even give you a 20ft handstand walk. Just don’t ask me to do a wall walk…

Q: What has helped you achieve success at BCF?

Consistency, coaching, and the mad scientist (Brock) programming. With the occasional “BBB” programming (Body by Bobby).

Q: What advice can you give to others who are new to CrossFit?

Do not cherry pick the classes you attend. Stick out the programming blocks and stay within the prescribed percentages. It might feel like you are just treading water but the results will come. Not every day is a max effort day/PR day.

Q: Besides working out, what other lifestyle changes did you make outside of the gym to achieve your goals?

Stretching, sleeping, and taking rest days have become more of a priority.

Q: What is the biggest benefit you’ve noticed since starting CrossFit (both in and out of the gym)?

I’ve been doing CrossFit since 2018 and seeing my progress in strength and conditioning over the years has been very rewarding. I like to hike and snowboard and having better stamina and endurance makes those activities more about the experience than being exhausted during or after.

Q: What has been your favorite thing about BCF?

BCF is the best (hands down) when it comes to availability and quality of coaching. 

Q: What has been your favorite memory related to CrossFit?

Competing with Chelsea, Elizabeth and Bobby at and taking 2nd at MACC. “Almost” – maybe next year. 

Q: What’s one thing you love about this gym that has nothing to do with working out?

The events held outside of the gym. I love the annual baseball game and watching the Nationals lose…go Phils!