Athlete of the MonthJune
How old / young are you?
76
What is your occupation?
I am retired Project Manager
When did you join Widespread Fitness?
About 16 months ago
Why did you decide to give Widespread Fitness a try?
My wife and I have always tried to stay fit through exercise. We did some research and after having some conversations with Matt we determined that Widespread could offer us the customized programs that we wanted.
What was your athletic background before starting?
I played in a men’s Hockey league and Soccer league and did aerobics for many years.
What changes in your health, physique, and overall performance have you seen since starting?
I believe that I have more endurance than when I first started this program and that I have flexibility and energy to enjoy other things like hiking, yard work/gardening, working at Food Bank.
What advice would you give to someone with regards to starting?
You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by doing a few of the “sample classes”. I think that there is a level of accountability that keeps people coming back to keep accomplishing more and more and to stay in good shape. As we age, it’s critical that we have a regimen that helps us stay active and mobile.
What is your favorite and least favorite exercises / movement?
Who doesn’t love burpees!!? Just kidding! I always groan when they are on the list for the workout. I think that box jumps are a challenge for me, but as much as I would prefer to do something else, I know that Matt makes me do them for a good reason. 200 meter jogs are also up there on my list of least favorite exercises. I don’t mind jump rope, plank or sit ups.
What is your most memorable moment so far?
Watching the athletes at some of the group classes and thinking “no way!!” and now being named Athlete of the Month.
What do you like to do outside of the gym?
Traveling and hiking with my wife Angela; visiting with the
grandkids; being involved with our church’s foodbank and regular get-togethers with friends.
What is your favorite “cheat” food or meal?
I really don’t have a cheat food. I try and watch foods high in cholesterol, but that’s about it.
What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
My age. I also had a triple bypass.
Who or what inspires you the most?
My wife Angela, family and friends play a huge role. Matt and the folks from Widespread also provide a lot of encouragement. My Dad was always in good shape and I think that was a good example for me and helped me create some good habits re: exercising.
What is one goal you would like to accomplish?
To still be this active, healthy and happy 15-20 years from now – if that is God’s plan for me; being able to still enjoy going to many different places with my wife and being able to move around freely without pain or a lot of assistance. My wife and I hiked Mt. Audubon and we’d still like to do a 14-er.