November 2020 Member of the Month

Member of the Month – Simon

Congratulations Simon! Simon made a commitment to his training during the lockdown and hasn’t slowed down since. He puts in 100% effort into every class, makes everyone feel welcome and encourages others! Keep up the great work Simon.

If you had to say something to someone looking to try CF for the first time, what would it be?

I kept thinking I needed to get fit first before I started, thinking it would be too hard otherwise. But I dived in and didn’t need to worry. All the exercises can be easily modified to suit whatever level you are at and you still get the awesome buzz of completing the workout with everyone else and being spent at the end. The coaches are always ready to help suggest options for you and everyone supports you and encourages you no matter what weight or adjustments you are using.

How did you get started with CrossFit?

I had heard about it and liked the look of it, and when I found out Holly was opening a box I thought I would try it out. Nearly 2 years later I’m still going and loving it.

How do you find/make time to get your workouts in?

I only do 3 times a week which is manageable for me. The same days each week to help me keep in the routine, though I know if something comes up I can usually find another day easily. It can be hard sometimes to stick to it when I know I a have a lot of work to do at night but even though it means I get home about 90 minutes later, I feel so much better, mentally and physically. So I keep reminding myself of that!

What is one fun fact about you that we may not know yet?

I got up on stage in grade 5 in front of the whole school and sang a medley of songs on my guitar, including Country Road and Delta Dawn. Apparently, what I lacked in skill I made up for in enthusiasm. That performance launched my career to the lofty heights it has reached today. i.e. as a Maths and IT teacher.

In your opinion, what is the biggest benefit of exercising?

Feeling healthier and more alert. It provides a great balance in your life to the mental aspects of work.

How has being a member at CrossFit Oxygen helped you on your fitness journey?

Having the sessions that I book in giving me fixed times means I don’t just put it off like I might do if doing exercise at home myself. Having the coaches and the encouragement of doing the work with a great bunch of people makes me push myself far more than I would otherwise. I love the challenge as well as the variation in all the workouts. It keeps me interested.

What is your favourite movement/type of workout?

Gymnastics bar work, especially the kipping chin ups. (Being an old gymnast these are fun!)

What is your least favourite movement/ type of workout?

Least favourite: burpees, no doubt. I might never be able to listen to Roxanne again.

What is your biggest CrossFit accomplishment so far?

I’ve really improved my lifting technique this year and feel far more confident now to increase the weight. I think the next 6 months will see a big improvement in numbers.

What motivates and inspires you?

Training with a great bunch of people, all of different levels and backgrounds, all working their guts out and pushing through. Inspires me every session.