In September 2016, Drew took a leap and joined No Excuses CrossFit, following in the footsteps of friends around the world who had discovered the excitement of CrossFit. For Drew, it was about more than just a workout—it was about getting back in shape after what he jokingly calls “baby weight” and struggling with his own workout routines.
“I have several friends throughout the world that have had a lot of fun doing CrossFit. I decided to give it a try after putting on some baby weight and struggling with my own programming,” Drew shared.
A Diverse Athletic Background
Drew’s fitness journey didn’t start with CrossFit. Back in high school, he played football and participated in the field side of track & field. After that, he went on to survive Navy Dive School, an accomplishment that speaks to his physical and mental resilience. But later in his career, fitness wasn’t a big focus.
“I was a member of the 3 mile/year club,” Drew jokes, “meaning I ran the bi-annual 1.5 mile assessment twice in a year and that was it.”
Positive Changes, Inside and Out
Since joining No Excuses, Drew has experienced significant improvements, both physically and mentally. CrossFit has given him the opportunity to challenge himself in areas where he wasn’t naturally inclined.
“I get to challenge myself mentally and physically every time I make it to the gym. Following the programming has allowed me to work on things I am not inherently good at, such as gymnastics, form for Olympic lifts, cardio, and mobility,” Drew explained.
Like many, Drew used to program his workouts based on what he excelled at, which led to minimal improvement. But under the guidance of No Excuses programming, his core strength and overall stability have improved dramatically.
“My core and overall stability are better than I could have imagined after a year,” he added.
The Motivation to Keep Going
For Drew, the No Excuses CrossFit community is what keeps him coming back. The camaraderie and shared experience with athletes of all levels are key parts of his motivation.
“I enjoy working out next to our elite athletes and new faces alike. We all do what we can during the METCON and share similar pain,” he said.
And this new level of fitness has had real-life applications. Drew shared a memorable (and slightly humorous) moment where his newfound strength saved the day:
“To trip over a water jug while carrying a 100+ pound dehumidifier, hop three times on one leg, and not drop it or fall—that’s thanks to CrossFit!”
He’s also noticed how his fitness has impacted his daily life, whether it’s playing harder with his kids or avoiding injuries during housework.
Goals and Advice for Newcomers
Looking ahead, Drew has his sights set on competing in the CrossFit Open at the RX level. “I want to compete in the Open RX—not skip movements like muscle-ups because I don’t have them,” he shared.
For those who are just starting CrossFit or are on the fence about joining, Drew has some solid advice:
“Embrace the pain and share in it with me (us) and you will be happy with more than just the results. There is no minimum fitness level, no minimum reps during a WOD, but a minimum amount of effort. Stay humble, put more weight on when the coaches challenge you, and more importantly take a little off when they tell you that form is more important.”
Life Outside the Gym
Outside of CrossFit, Drew enjoys sports that combine competition with fun—especially those that involve beer, either during or after. He also loves cycling, golfing, and spending time with his two young children, doing whatever wears them out for nap time.
What Drew Loves Most About No Excuses CrossFit
When it comes down to it, what Drew loves most about No Excuses is the people. “The community generated by our members and coaches,” he said, is what makes No Excuses CrossFit more than just a gym—it’s a family.