What was your athletic background, if any?
I ran cross country and track (long distance) in highschool for Grand Rapids Catholic Central. I was city champ at both my senior year, but that was a different life long long ago. In college at GVSU, I played a ton of Ultimate Frisbee on the club team.
What led you to Crossfit and CFA specifically?
The guys over at BizStream talked me into it. I had no idea what I was getting into. It doesn’t hurt that CFA is in the same parking lot as BizStream either.
What do you do when you’re not at CFA?
Work, work, and work. With the time left, I hang out with my family, dink around with casual games on the iPad, and yell at the TV when the Lions are on each fall.
When did you realize that CrossFit is right for you?
Right for me…hmm. I’m still not sure about this whole thing is exactly right for me, have you seen me when I walk in at 7am? Or when I’m dead on the floor after the WOD?
But more seriously, I think it was about 3 or 4 months in when I missed a day for some reason (probably work travel) and I realized I actually missed not being there and going through a workout.
Do you remember your first WOD?
Not really, I’m old, and it’s hard to remember that far back. I do think the first day had burpees, and after doing 5 of them I thought “this is literally going to kill me”. I hurt so bad for those first two weeks.
What is your favorite or least favorite WOD/movement?
Originally I thought Thrusters were the worst thing ever invented. Now I kind of like them. Honestly I have a large dislike of rope climbs, pull-ups, DU, the AB, and most things with DBs, …, but maybe I should just stop here.
What is your most proud CrossFit moment?
2nd place in 19.6, I feel like Dave and I crushed those donuts… But more seriously, the first time I made it up the rope and the first time I did a kipping pull-up.
What motivates you during a tough workout?
I hate quitting. I just want to finish the workout no matter how hard, or how long, or how far behind everyone I get.
What are your goals going forward and what do you think will help you achieve them?
I want to do two things this year, be able to string pull-ups together instead of doing singles, and to be able to finally do Double Unders for real. Once I have the extra time, I know I need to try and sign up for the CFA Pull-up program that a few people are doing. I have seen it make a difference. And other than that practice more jump rope.
What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health and fitness or just day to day life since starting CrossFit (before/after?)
I have run countless miles as a long distance runner for hours at a time. That doesn’t compare to how hard some of the CFA WODs are, which leads me to the thing I notice most. I’m sore all the dang time. So sore. But that feeling means it’s working. My upper body strength is ever so slightly changing for the better.
What would you recommend to someone who is just starting out with CrossFit or is too afraid to try it?
Be Fearless. That’s the biggest thing. Remember you can scale everything (I still do very often). Even if you start with the PVC pipe for a barbell. Coming to the gym, warming up, stretching, and continuous movement is still far better than not exercising at all. Don’t let the whiteboard scare you.
If you could have one skill or characteristic of another member at CFA what and from whom would it be? Or which other CFA member are you the most motivated by?
It’s going to kill me to say this, but Josh Rubino’s non stop enthusiasm about going to CFA everyday, being excited about working out, and positivity about the WOD, is something I could use a little more of. I also wish I had Dave and Trench’s ability to actually make a 5:45 am class. But trust me, that will never happen.
Quick Questions
Favorite Cheat meal: Wings, Tacos, more Wings
Favorite Workout song: Shots, Imagine Dragons
Favorite Place You Have Traveled: Las Vegas
Favorite TV Show: Game of Thrones
Favorite CrossFit Athlete(if any): Patrick Vellner (he’s the best shot at taking down Fraser)
Coach’s comment:
Brian is past due for being member of the month & well deserving. Brian was one of the first people to walk into our door back in 2014. Not only does he consistently do CrossFit himself, but he also provides his employees at Bizstream memberships with us as he understands the importance of staying fit & healthy. Although Brian has some issues with his back, that does not prevent him from showing up almost every day ready to work hard, with proper modifications any workout is possible for anyone. We are happy to still have Brian with us and supporting us 5 years later! Thank you, Brian!!
