What do you value about the classes you take at the Shop?
Continual improvement – not only increasing the weight on the bar, but improving my form. Prior to joining DBS, I had zero experience with kettlebells or Olympic lifts. I appreciate the tips the coaches provide to help improve my form little by little each week. Best tip I’ve received at the Shop: Pre-Fired-Glutes.
What’s your plan post surgery? Will you supplement the Shop classes with anything in particular, or just sit and wait for things to heal? (this a trick question)
I was diagnosed with a torn labrum in my left hip about six months ago…I’ve been dealing with the nagging pain for years. The first doctor I consulted recommended surgery and platelet injections (not covered by insurance $$$), which I was dreading, so I decided to get a second opinion. The second doctor prescribed physical therapy(PT) and continuing my normal routine at DBS. The focus of PT is twofold: increase mobility and strengthen the glutes, both of which we focus on in The Shop.
What changes, physically or mentally, have you noticed since starting at the Shop?
I love to exercise. I love what it does for my body and most importantly what it does for me mentally. For me, it’s meditative – I’m able to block out all distractions and focus on form and breathing. I get cranky when I skip a few days…
What is your favorite exercise movement? Least favorite?
Favorite: Not really a ‘movement’, but I enjoy the MetCon sections of the Fusion workouts.
Least Favorite: Any variation of the overhead squat. Eff that BS.
What do you value about the community you take classes with at the Shop?
Everyone supports one another and there is no reason to be intimidated by any of the members. I was once partnered up with two of the strongest guys in class just because we were the same height. I was worried that I’d inconvenience them by having to unload the bar every set, but they ended up being super-encouraging.
Do you have any specific fitness goals you’d like to share with everyone?
My two main fitness goals are to improve my mobility and gain functional strength. I’ve always led an active lifestyle, but since joining DBS I’ve been able to identify my deficiencies, especially when it comes to mobility. I used to admire other athletes for their feats of strength, but now I find myself in awe of how deep they can go while performing an overhead squat.
Have you developed any particular relationships at the Shop, or strengthened your ties to Ricardo Jimenez? 😉
This is a tough question. While don’t regularly hang out with members outside the Shop, I still feel I get social interaction and have developed friendships. I’m not actively seeking a bromance, but wouldn’t turn one down either. Ricardo and I worked together briefly and we enjoy giving each other $hit at the Shop. He has a fondness for the pink kettle bell…
What do you like to do when you’re not working out?
My two kids (11 & 9 yo) keep me pretty busy. I’ve passed on my love of cycling and skateboarding to my kids, so we’ll hit the skate park or head out for a long bike ride on my off days. I enjoy working in the yard, but lately I’ve been hiring out the work so I’m not too fatigued to hit Monday Fusion.
