Over the past few years getting to know Francis as an athlete and now as a friend, I have come to like him more and more as time goes by.As an athlete, he is very inquisitive, asking thoughtful questions and then executing on the coaching he receives in response, which has really made coaching him through the Olympic Lifts fun. Francis is one of the most technical Oly Lifters at our gym now, and he achieved that by really focusing on the nuance, not being afraid to keep the weight lighter to improve his technique and coming to our Olympic Lifting class religiously.As a friend, Francis is friendly, thoughtful, and genuine. He always makes a point of introducing himself to new faces at the gym and I often see him having a chat with them after class and encouraging them to keep coming to class and really just being a good guy and making them feel welcome. It really is an honor to have such a great human as part of our community.
When did you join Cróga?
Beginning of the year, 2018 as part of a new year’s effort to get into better shape.
What were you doing before for fitness?
Big box gyms, running, biking, and some swimming.
What was your first workout?
First reaction to your first workout? Not necessarily first…but one of the workouts when I first joined was an April Fool’s WOD – 100 burpees for time. I was turned off by that.
What improvements have you seen in the way you look, feel and perform?
I have much more energy and confidence, and it doesn’t hurt that I’ve gone down a pant size or two since joining.
What days and times do you come to Cróga?
Whenever my work schedule allows – usually it’s the first or last class of the day.
What’s your favorite WOD?
Anything that has a mix of cardio and oly movements.
What’s your least favorite WOD?
“Kalsu” – that’s just unnecessary.
“The Francis” WOD! What would it be?
Buy-in: 800m run; Then, 21-15-9 Reps of Power snatch, OH Squat, abmat sit-ups; Buy-out: 800m run. Moderate weight.
What’s your biggest fitness goal for this year?
Don’t get sick.
What do you love about this type of fitness?
I feel like you become a more well rounded athlete – having a good balance of strength, mobility, and cardiovascular ability. Additionally, I’ve come to really enjoy OLY lifting and learning the nuances of the movements which dramatically affect how much you can put up.
What words of advice do you have for new members or people considering joining Cróga?
i) Come for the community, and ii) trust in the programming and the coaches
