Name: Eli Bousarkis
Age: 41
Occupation: Hairdresser
Which class time do you usually attend? 12:30pm
Favorite WOD: Wall balls & Box jumps
Favorite Lift: Deadlifts
Deadlift Max: 260#
Back squat Max: 215#
Favorite Food: Thai Food
Favorite Movie: none comes to mind
Favorite Athlete: Brandon & Fischer
Dream Job: working it
Dream Vacation Destination: San Francisco / Napa Valley combo

How long have you been CrossFitting (since Month, year)?
“Since August 2015.”

What keeps you coming back/motivated?
“I keep coming because I have enjoyed building muscle and seeing a body transformation.”

How did you find CrossFit?
“Driving to work.”

What is your athletic background (If applicable)?
“Soccer, Cardio (running, elliptical, etc.).”

How has CrossFit changed your life, lifestyle, level of fitness?
“Its truly been life changing! I have been building muscle and feeling stronger. NE has been instrumental in taking my workouts all the way to ‘Next Level’, and it shows.”

What is the one thing you have done here that you never thought you could do?
“Where do I start?! I was only using dumbells for years. Now I handle that 45#bar and heavy deadlifts like a boss!!”

Who or what motivates/inspires you?
“I would have to say the coaches; their dedication & passion to push & guide us through the WOD.”

What is your proudest CrossFit achievement?
“I would say diving into the [CrossFit Games] ‘Open’. I signed up not really having no clue what it was! I got such a sense of healthy competition & enjoyed meeting other fellow members.

Name one goal/personal achievement you would like to achieve through CrossFit?
“Strict Pull ups.”

Hobbies/Interests outside of CrossFit?
“Traveling and going to concerts!”

Any advice for new members?
“In my experience, my advice would be to not doubt yourself, get out of your head, and push through the fear!! I’m a prime example!”

Any additional thoughts/comments:
“NECF has been the highlight of my year!! I never would’ve thought I’d start lifting weights at 40!! While I still have a long way to go, I’m truly proud of my ‘small daily achievements.’ Props to our dedicted coaches who help us thrive and the sense of camaraderie with fellow members..Cheers!

Coach Laura’s Take:
“Eli has taken on his first year at No Excuses with such enthusiasm. As most people are when they get started, Eli was a little unsure of himself and ‘this whole CrossFit thing’, but he made (and still makes) the effort to be consistent with his attendance and ask questions and that has paid off. He is not afraid to try new things and jumps in with both feet. Eli signed up for the Open this year “sight unseen,” and it was awesome to watch him take on the workouts each week! As a coach, it is so rewarding seeing someone’s confidence grow! Eli is coachable, kind and very genuine. We are glad to have him as part of our No Excuses family!”