What do you do when you’re not at CFA?
Aside from work I spend a lot of time coaching and watching my four kids play soccer, baseball, and softball. I also spend time volunteering at my church, and if I have time left I fish, camp, and spend a lot of time outdoors.
What do you do for a living?
I’m a geotechnical engineer which is a branch of civil engineering. I work for a manufacturing company that produces precast concrete products used for retaining walls. I manage the civil engineering group and part of our European sales team.
How has your fitness changed since joining?
It has improved significantly. When I was younger I played a lot of soccer and as I became older and busier it was really hard to play consistently. While I struggled to find something to replace that physical activity, my physical condition took a toll. Crossfit has really helped me achieve a fitness level that was really outside of what I had done before.
When did you realize that CrossFit was right for you?
Right away as I started. Although I’m a relatively quiet person, I really appreciate having the community and team culture of Crossfit. This in combination with the fact that I just show up and the coaches tell me what to do and how to do it properly. It is simple and easy to attend.
What movement do you despise over everything and why?
Burpee box jump overs. Burpees alone are awful and I’m really damn slow at them. Why would you make them worse with a box jump over?
What has been your all-time favorite moment at CFA? So many fun moments!
The Open Workout this year was my favorite time at CFA. During the 25.3 workout I had Coach Kate as my judge and drill sergeant all at the same time, her encouragement helped me finish the workout. This was very encouraging, as this was the first time I signed up for this event and a CrossFit competition in general.
What motivates you during a tough workout?
I break up the workout into small milestones and timeframes. Reaching each one of these seems like an accomplishment. I also get encouragement from knowing that the tougher the workout, the more physical reward I will achieve.
What’s something about you that most people at the gym don’t know?
I’m a dual citizen, American (dad) / Guatemalan (mom). I grew up in Guatemala and when I moved to Michigan in 2004 I didn’t speak fluent English.
If you had to describe your CrossFit experience in one word, what would it be?
Fulfilling
If you could write your own workout for a day, what would it be?
3x 400m Run, 50 Wall Balls, 30 AMSU
What would you recommend to someone who is just starting out with CrossFit?
Be patient, be as consistent as possible, and prioritize form over speed.
If you could have one skill or characteristic of another member at CFA what and from whom would it be?
There is a group of folks at CrossFit who are in their 50s+ and are in incredible physical condition. I would like to have the skill of consistency and mental strength to be able to continue improving my physical condition in the long term.
Quick Questions
- Favorite Cheat meal: Pizza and beer.
- Favorite Workout song: I don’t have a specific one.
- Favorite Place You Have Traveled: New Zealand
- Favorite TV Show: Seinfeld
- Favorite CrossFit Games Athlete: Jason Grubb
Coaches’ Comment
Dan is truly deserving of being named Member of the Month for May 2025. May will mark his fourth year of CrossFit with us. Although he’s typically a quiet guy who flies under the radar, we felt it was only fitting to highlight his consistency and hard work. Since joining us, Dan has improved in nearly all aspects of his fitness (well, maybe not his jump rope). He has grown stronger, refined his technique and mobility, and even boosted his endurance. It’s been inspiring to see him bring his kids to the gym to work out, setting a healthy example for them too. Keep up the great work, Dan!
