12 years ago, Robert walked into No Excuses CrossFit, unsure of what to expect. He was coming out of a challenging period in his life, marked by a plateau in his physical and emotional well-being. His son, knowing the need for a positive change, introduced him to CrossFit. “After going through a divorce years ago, I lost my edge and hit a plateau. My son knew Kyle Maynard from high school and knew about NEC. He told me that I needed a kick in the butt… so four years later, here I am,” Robert recalls.
A New Routine and Motivation
For Robert, the motivation to continue CrossFit goes beyond just physical fitness. “It has been said that when you lose your health, you lose everything. Well, maybe not everything, but good health is definitely in my cards as long as I can do something about it. To work out and enjoy good strength/flexibility and do whatever I want to do without pain or weakness or meds keeps me coming back,” he explains. This commitment to health and vitality has become a core part of Robert’s life.
An Evolving Lifestyle
Robert’s athletic background includes a diverse range of sports, from football and track to boxing during his time in the Coast Guard. However, as he aged, certain activities, like running marathons, became challenging. CrossFit offered a new way to maintain his fitness and manage stress. “It is my stress relief! I have a very stressful job as a troubleshooter. I actually stress out trying to get to the gym in traffic by 6 pm too! Ha,” he shares with a laugh. Remarkably, after just six months of CrossFit, Robert saw significant improvements in his health metrics, including lowered blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Achievements
Among Robert’s proudest moments in CrossFit was his first successful rope climb. “Not that I didn’t think I could, but when I made my first rope climb… I said to myself, why couldn’t I do that before? I went on to do five more that night,” he recalls with pride. However, his most significant achievement might be overcoming the initial fear and intimidation he felt as an older member in a typically younger group. His participation in the CrossFit Open, where he ranked high enough to be mentioned in the NEC newsletter, further validated his commitment and progress.
Faith, Family, and Fitness
Robert finds his motivation and inspiration in his faith and the simple joys of life. “I am so happy to have a God that I can know that there is a home base and that there actually is a reason to live, and there is no need to fear death. I simply love life without any drama or complications and to be able to enjoy everything that I have been blessed with,” he shares. Outside the gym, Robert enjoys traveling, riding his Harley, snow skiing and spending time by the water with his wife of 8 years whom he actually met at the gym. Since retiring he’s also started golfing again. He also finds joy in everyday activities like house projects and working in the yard, reflecting his appreciation for a balanced life.
Advice for New Members
For those new to CrossFit, Robert offers this advice: “Don’t let the clock intimidate you, but give it your all. It will always get better. Use weights that challenge you but not hurt you. This is a fun time as well as a healthy time. Physically and mentally. Enjoy it.” His perspective emphasizes the importance of enjoying the journey and finding personal fulfillment in every workout.
The Power of Community
Robert credits the community at No Excuses CrossFit for helping him find balance and purpose. “A healthy balance in life is a must! NEC helps provide me with a part of that balance,” he concludes. His journey underscores the transformative power of a supportive community and the profound impact of staying active and engaged, regardless of age.
Robert’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle. At No Excuses CrossFit, stories like Robert’s inspire us all to push past our limits and find joy in the journey. Join us and discover how CrossFit can change your life, just as it has for Robert and many others in our community.