October Athlete of the Month: Greg Doyle

Congratulations Greg, you’re our October Athlete of the Month!

Greg is a long time CrossFitter and has found his home with our noon class. Self admittedly, Greg is a quiet guy, but it’s hard to miss his effort and how hard he works everyday at the gym. Greg has impressive lifetime personal records of a sub 5:00 mile and a 500# deadlift; most people would love to be able to do one of these at some point in their life and he’s accomplished both! These days, Greg is CrossFitting to find a balance between family, work, and life, and we appreciate him and his efforts at the gym. Thank you for being a part of our community!!

Quotes from Greg:

“CrossFit has played a vital role in improving my self-confidence, drive and motivation to succeed in all facets of my life personally & professionally

Socially, I am a bit introverted (surprise), the social aspect was a significant motivator in my early CrossFit days.”

“"Consistency beats talent, when talent isn't consistent" - Stick with it, celebrate every PR, and attend class no matter how tired, sore, or busy you are - you will seldom (if ever) regret showing up.”

Age: 43

Athletic/Sports history/highlights:

I played basketball, as well as ran cross country & track in high school. My 1600m PR - 4:40, 3200m - 10:25, and 5K - 17:16. I attempted to continue running at the collegiate level as a freshman at Adams State University, but lost the drive and motivation as the level of competition significantly increased.

How long have you been CrossFitting?

Since March of 2011. A long time ago!

How did you get into CrossFit?

I had heard the rumors that CrossFit was changing lives, and desperately needed a fitness routine that provided structure. There was a CrossFit gym (Alpine CrossFit) that had recently opened across the street from my previous employer in Wheat Ridge, CO. After my 1st session I was hooked.

What is your favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?

Pretty much anything that includes a barbell. I won't lie, I also enjoy a grueling cardio-intensive workout involving an assault bike, rower, or some good old-fashioned running (or all 3).

What is your least favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?

Lunges - I get ridiculously sore Every.Single.Time

What is your most memorable CrossFit moment?

This is a tough question...I've had a lot of memorable CrossFit moments - each PR & competition has been memorable, although those days have passed. I'll have to go with my 500# deadlift PR as my most memorable.

How does nutrition play a role in your fitness and recovery?

At the moment, it doesn't. I've experimented with many different nutritional approaches (including strict Paleo for 6-months), and settled on my current approach of eating whatever I want - but knowing the consequences of my decisions, and remaining at peace with the outcome (positive or negative).

How has CrossFit improved your overall wellness?

Physically - From skinny-fat "dad bod" to peak male performance (joking...but that remains the goal)

Mentally - Reduced stress levels. Most importantly, CrossFit has played a vital role in improving my self-confidence, drive and motivation to succeed in all facets of my life personally & professionally

Socially - While I am a bit introverted (surprise), the social aspect was a significant motivator in my early CrossFit days. At my previous employer, I established a wellness program that reimburses employees for their monthly CrossFit membership. At the peak, we had 13 employees (>25% of staff) participating, which was fun to be involved in.

How has CrossFit changed your family?

My wife and daughter have been supportive of my journey, however, I have been unsuccessful in getting them to drink the Kool-Aid. Their resistance to CrossFit likely has a lot to do with me hobbling around the house, complaining about how damn sore I am...for the last 12 years.

Advice to new people:

"Consistency beats talent, when talent isn't consistent" - Stick with it, celebrate every PR, and attend class no matter how tired, sore, or busy you are - you will seldom (if ever) regret showing up.