How old/young are you?
I am 25 years old.
What is your occupation?
I am an IT Project Manager at Viega, which is a global company that manufactures and distributes plumbing, heating, and pipe-joining fittings and systems for many markets here in North America.
When did you join Widespread Fitness?
I started my on-ramp in November of 2024 and group classes in December, so I have been here for 1 year and 5 months now!!
Why did you decide to give Widespread Fitness a try?
I had tried out CrossFit a couple of times and was ready to make a fitness change after making the move back home when I graduated college. I was researching gyms in the area and liked the vibe I got from Widespread when I found it.
What was your athletic background before starting?
I played a lot of sports growing up, probably at least 1 season of most sports you can think of… volleyball, softball, basketball, etc., but I played soccer consistently from the age of 4 through high school. Then I started playing co-ed indoor soccer after college, before starting the gym.
What changes in your health, physique, and overall performance have you seen since starting?
I feel a lot stronger and have a lot more capacity to get through challenging workouts compared to when I started. I have gained muscle and lost weight too, which is a positive. I also feel more confident being in the gym now because I know how to do the movements that we see a lot in classes.
What advice would you give to someone with regards to starting?
My advice would be to just do it, even if it scares you. Let’s be honest, most of the time it seems very intimidating to start something new but it’s not going to start getting less “scary” until you begin. When I started, I would get so anxious before coming to the gym because I didn’t know if I could get through some of the workouts, but this is truly a one-of-a-kind environment and experience that makes you feel comfortable and confident to get through the WOD, no matter your fitness level.
What is your favorite and least favorite exercises / movement?
If you know me, there are NOT a ton of things that I would say are my favorites but I like deadlifts, powercleans, and rowing. My least favorite right now is definitely burpees!
What is your most memorable moment so far?
I would have to say the most memorable moment so far would be this year’s CrossFit Open and my team winning it. It was a lot of fun to get together with my team, coordinate spirit, and get loud in the gym during the Friday Night Lights.
What do you like to do outside of the gym?
Outside of the gym, I like to spend time with my family and friends, watch sports (the Avs are my favorite), and shop. I also like to walk and try new restaurants around here!
What is your favorite “cheat” food or meal?
My favorite cheat food is either a good cheeseburger with fries or ice cream.
What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
One thing that people would be surprised to know about me is that I am a quarter Japanese. Most people don’t believe it until I show them picture evidence, haha!
Who or what inspires you the most?
I would say that my group of 5PM-ers inspires me the most. Since the beginning, this cool group of people made me feel comfortable and welcome, and it was nice to suffer through classes together, so much so we made our friendships exist outside the gym. These people are so supportive and make coming to the gym something that I look forward to. There’s no one I would rather throw down and hit PRs with!
What is one goal you would like to accomplish?
I would like to get one unassisted pull-up one day – there is a far road ahead, but it would be awesome to get there!