July Athlete of the Month: Kevin MacBeth
Congratulation, Kevin! You’re our July Athlete of the Month!!
Kevin is an early morning NoCoaster through and through - even when he doesn’t have to get up early for work, he still makes it into the 5:30am class to get his sweat on with his early morning crew. Kevin’s consistency and work effort is inspiring and intoxicating; even when he’s the only one to show up for a burpee box jump over WOD, he’s still pumped up to crush it. Not only do we love Kevin for his enthusiasm as the sun is rising, but he’s always around to lend a helping hand. He also loves getting outside of the gym and spending time with friends he has made within our community. Thank you for all that you do, Kevin, we appreciate you!
Age/Weight:
38 / 250ish
Athletic/Sports history/highlights:
I played Football and Baseball through High School. I've been Snowboarding since I was 12. My time in the military gave me an appreciation for all sorts of alternative activities like Ruck Marching; Basically, activities that test and push your mind as much, if not more, than your physical abilities. I guess that's why I like CrossFit now. I also enjoy yoga to stay flexy.
How long have you been CrossFitting?
I've been at NoCoast for 2 years and a few months. Prior to that, while living in Florida, I had a home gym and dabbled with trying to follow the main site WOD's. Having a place to go and other people in class to push you is the best for me.
How did you get into CrossFit?
It reminded me of the training we did in the Military. Everything we did was functional to our job. Me being Infantry meant carrying large loads, long distances, as well as sprinting to move and react to contact, it was basically training to function in chaos. That's what a lot of WODs feel like so it spoke to me. Also, it just helps you become a better human and I like that aspect.
What is your favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?
I really like anything overhead. Overhead squats, Jerks, etc... With that, I am starting to focus more on the Olympic Lifting. We have a damn world record holder as a coach and her coach in the house. Interested to see where this path leads.
What is your least favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?
Multiple, Burpees and the physics involved with my body are not friends. Double-Unders . . . I don't hate so much, I just suck at them. And last but not least, Running. I'm a pack mule not a cheetah, I've accepted that and am perfectly OK with it. Cardi-NO!
What is your most memorable CrossFit moment?
Getting pull-ups and Rope Climbs back. I am still not particularly good at either and don't have a high volume capacity for either, but after not even attempting either for over 10 years it was a great sign of progress to get them back in my life.
How does nutrition play a role in your fitness and recovery?
Honestly I have yet to find the "Perfect" nutrition plan. Weight and size have always been an issue for me. I do love food, who doesn't? But, the coaching and challenges while at NoCoast have been very valuable for the knowledge gained and experimentation. I have definitely stuck with a majority of what I've learned. I would say I'm "mostly" zone. 70%ish
How has CrossFit improved your overall wellness?
It may be a shocker given my always sunny disposition, but I can get heated at times. Hitting a class at NoCoast 4-5 days a week gives me an outlet. I have dropped some weight, gained some confidence by learning new skills and reacquainting myself with old ones. I am also eating cleaner than I ever have, and just generally feel happy. CrossFit and NoCoast especially have all been instrumental in that.
How does the NoCoast community play a role in your life outside of working out?
I have met some great people at NoCoast. I now work with one other member. Hangout on weekends with others. There is a real "Family" atmosphere within NoCoast. It's a vibe I picked up on early and was one of the main reasons I choose to join when I did.
Advice to new people:
I just love Pat Sherwood's quote. I couldn't say it any better myself so here it is: “The goal is to get fit, make it the best hour of your day, stay safe, turn up the music, high five some people, and blow off some steam. So remember that. Relax. Have fun. Work out.”