November Athlete of the Month: John Holton
Congratulations, John! You’re our November NoCoast athlete of the month!!!
John has been a part of our NoCoast community for 4 years now and, in that time, he’s not only dramatically changed his life but has had a huge affect on us and our community (make sure to read his quotes below). John has a ton of energy and he brings it every time he steps in the gym; his peers love him and he always puts a smile on our face. Life can be hectic and stressful and his is no different . . . he sees NoCoast and his hour here as the greatest de-stressor and balance in his life.
Quotes from John:
“When I joined NoCoast, I was in bad shape and it has helped me so much. In addition to making me stronger and more flexible than I ever thought I would be at 49, it’s made me healthier both physically and mentally. When I joined NC, I was 30 lbs. heavier than I am now, I had high blood pressure, was close to taking statins for high cholesterol, and my triglycerides were off the chart. Within a short period of time of working out and some diet changes, I got down to healthy weight, my blood pressure to a normal range, and all my blood work including cholesterol and triglycerides have been normal.”
“The food challenges have been great for me, and I suggest this for others who haven’t done them. I’ve learned how food interacts with my body and my overall well-being. I now know what foods to avoid and what I need more of to get the energy I need during the day and for the workouts.”
Age/Weight:
49 / 189 lbs Athletic/Sports history/highlights:
I was active in my youth playing organized sports and this continued into college where I played club lacrosse. After that I didn’t do much, except the occasional big gym memberships which usually consisted of me riding the stationary bike and reading magazines. How long have you been Cross Fitting?
I joined NC in late 2014, so 4 years. Wow. How did you get into CrossFit?
My wife suggested it. She thought the group classes would be good for me. And she was right, the community at NC has been huge, and keeps me motivated. What is your favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?
I’m more of a cardio guy. I enjoy WODs that include rowing, running, box jumps, kettle bells, and do dare do I say burpees? What is your least favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?
Anything that involves a bar. This is an area I need to work on. Join an Olympic Lifting class. What is your most memorable CrossFit moment?
Hard to nail down one. Obviously, when I get a new PR, or an improved time is always a highlight. What have you learned from all of the nutrition challenges you've done over the years?
The food challenges have been great for me, and I suggest this for others who haven’t done them. I’ve learned how food interacts with my body and my overall well-being. I now know what foods to avoid and what I need more of to get the energy I need during the day and for the workouts. How has CrossFit improved your overall wellness?
When I joined NoCoast, I was in bad shape and it has helped me so much. In addition to making me stronger and more flexible than I ever thought I would be at 49, it’s made me healthier both physically and mentally. When I joined NC, I was 30 lbs. heavier than I am now, I had high blood pressure, was close to taking statins for high cholesterol, and my triglycerides were off the chart. Within a short period of time of working out and some diet changes, I got down to healthy weight, my blood pressure to a normal range, and all my blood work including cholesterol and triglycerides have been normal. How has CrossFit changed your family?
My wife and I have incorporated what I’ve learned at NC at home, the importance of exercise and nutrition. Being more aware of what you’re eating and how it impacts your body and mind. This is so important for kids to learn now, rather than waiting to be in their 40s like me. It’s cool when my kids see their old man doing a handstand or climb the 15-meter rope. They think I’m a “bad ass”. At least that’s what I like to think. Advice to new people:
Stay committed to a schedule. Push yourself to go when you don’t want to, as you will always feel better for it afterwards, and the rewards will come. Make it fun, enjoy and embrace the community that NoCoast provides.