In December 2013, Jon stepped into the world of CrossFit, unsure of what lay ahead. A year of trying to get back into shape had left him at a crossroads: continue the familiar or embrace something new and challenging. “I was trying to get back into shape for about a year when I decided it was probably go all the way or go work on my Halo skills,” Jon recalls. The decision to pursue CrossFit came after encouragement from a friend at church, Ben Davis, who frequently invited him to try it out. “After many invites from Ben to come check it out, a couple of friends from church and my wife and I decided to go and see what happens.”
A New Routine and Motivation
Since then, Jon’s dedication to CrossFit has become a staple in his life. The thrill of finishing a WOD (Workout of the Day) keeps him motivated. “Before the workout, I am kind of nervous about how bad it might be. Afterwards, the feeling of accomplishment makes me want to come back and do it again the next day.” This sense of achievement is a powerful motivator, driving Jon to continually return and push his limits.
An Evolving Lifestyle
Jon’s athletic background in baseball and wrestling during high school laid a foundation, but CrossFit has brought new dimensions to his fitness and lifestyle. He now incorporates fitness into his daily life in unique ways. “I have a lacrosse ball in every room to work on sore muscles,” he shares, highlighting his commitment to recovery and self-care. While his diet isn’t perfect, Jon consciously makes choices that fuel his body, balancing nutrition with the demands of his workouts. The discipline and resilience gained from CrossFit have also influenced other areas of his life, from parenting to professional confidence.
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Achievements
One of Jon’s proudest moments in CrossFit was finishing 14.5 in the 2014 Open, and then significantly improving on 15.5 in the 2015 Open. “They were not exactly the same but quite brutal,” he says, reflecting on the challenging experiences that have shaped his journey. Among the skills he never thought he could master, climbing a rope stands out. Achievements like these serve as milestones, marking Jon’s progress and growth within the sport.
Faith, Family, and Fitness
For Jon, motivation comes from a higher purpose. “I am motivated to glorify God. I know now happiness is in Him alone,” he explains. This perspective helps him stay grounded and grateful, regardless of how he performs in a WOD. It also instills in him a sense of contentment and peace, knowing he is exactly where he needs to be. Outside the gym, Jon enjoys spending time with his family, engaging in sports, and indulging in his love for computers and gaming—often beating his kids in Mario Kart and Smash Bros.
Advice for New Members
Jon’s advice for newcomers to CrossFit is simple yet profound: “Don’t watch and compare against others in the workout. Don’t get mad if you are not a competitor getting invited to the CrossFit Games after 3 weeks.” Instead, he encourages new members to focus on their progress over time, celebrating small victories and keeping an eye on long-term growth. “After a few months, I started noticing how far I had come. I also always keep in mind how much I can still improve.”
Community and Connection
One of the most significant aspects of Jon’s CrossFit experience has been the community at No Excuses CrossFit. “The community I found at No Excuses CrossFit really keeps me wanting to come week after week. The people make it great,” Jon says, expressing gratitude for the camaraderie and support that surrounds him. He appreciates the patience and encouragement from fellow members, even when he’s the last to finish a workout.
Jon’s journey with CrossFit is a testament to the transformative power of community, perseverance, and a positive mindset. His story serves as an inspiration to those looking to make meaningful changes in their lives, reminding us all that the path to fitness and health is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Join us at No Excuses CrossFit, where stories like Jon’s are written every day, and discover your own path to a healthier, happier life.