How did you discover CrossFit?
I have a twin brother that introduced me to CrossFit about 10 years ago. He opened a CrossFit gym in Loveland (Big Thompson Crossfit) and I was a charter member. He had to close his gym in 2021 due to the ongoing effects that COVID had on membership.
What draws you to DeNovo CrossFit?
I met Jenny when I got hired at Miramont Lifestyle Fitness as a SPIN instructor in 2014. I watched from a distance as DeNovo opened (Thanks social media). After my brother’s gym closed, I stopped crossfit and focused on the spin classes I was teaching. After a couple of years, I knew it was time for me to come back to CrossFit. DeNovo was my first thought, and after only a few classes I knew it was where I was going to stay.
I knew all the coaches before I joined, and they’ve all been great at helping me modify a workout when needed, adjusting my form to stay safe, and challenging me to do my best,
What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment in CrossFit and in life?
I do CrossFit as a way to get stronger, healthier and more resilient. As I’m a “Masters” athlete, I consider getting through a week without an injury to be a big accomplishment. This summer I was involved in a pretty significant bicycle crash. I came through the crash without any significant injuries. I had the expected road rash, bruises, and swelling, but I believe I withstood the impact better than expected because of CrossFit.
In life, I have three healthy adult sons that are all thriving. I can’t ask for anything more!
What athlete/s at DeNovo inspire you to be the best version of yourself each and every day?
Too many to name, but I’ll call out all the regulars and semi-regulars at the 7:30a weekday class. It’s a great mix of experienced really strong athletes, and some that are new and working to learn the skills and movements. Regardless of their experience, they all show up ready and willing to work hard, invest in themselves, and just get better. I’ve shared a barbell with some of the stronger athletes, and they are always supportive and encouraging.
Everyone really supports, cheers for and celebrates each other.
What is your pet peeve?
People that don’t mean what they say and tell you what they think you want to hear.
What/who inspires you?
My dad is now 86. He’s suffering from early stage Alzheimer's disease. In March of this year he climbed up on a chair, then fell off and broke his hip requiring a hip replacement. The first time I saw him after the surgery I thought I was saying goodbye to him. Even though he forgets the exercises he’s supposed to do, whenever I work with him on his rehab he does everything I ask him to do.
In May he was able to travel with us to California for my oldest son’s wedding, and then in June the whole family went on an Alaskan cruise. I just saw him this weekend, and he’s now doing great!
Favorite workout song?
I can’t choose just one. Two that I love:
Best pump you up song - Thunderstruck by AC/DC
Most Inspirational/best lyric - Man on Fire by Oh the Larceny (Lyric: You know I’m gonna give it all I got, Do what I came to do!)
What advice would you have for anyone who is nervous to join DeNovo?
It’s true that CrossFit is intimidating, and you’ll have to get through that. Denovo takes everything that Crossfit is and helps you mold it to what you need it to be.
What do you enjoy doing outside of CrossFit, both for fun and professionally?
I still teach Spin classes twice a week. This is my creative outlet where I get to combine being a DJ, Motivator and Goofball. I pay the bills by being an IT guy for Nutrien, a farm products company in Loveland.
My wife and I love finding new places around the country to meet up with one or more of our kids whenever we can. When we’re at home, we spoil our two dogs, Oakley and Oslo.
If we were sitting here one year from now, what would we be celebrating together?
Another year of health, happiness and all of my sons being home for Thanksgiving.
Favorite CrossFit movement?
Rower (no, not the bike…)
What are you currently reading?
I don’t have a book that I’m reading currently, but I’m in the middle of a 24 day devotional series called Altar in the Valley that I’m really enjoying (altarinthevalley.com).
What are you thankful for?
My life is truly blessed. I’m thankful that I can still surprise myself with what my body can do!
.png)
