August Athlete of the Month: Paul Ackerman

What made you decide to join the Riv?

I had friends and family doing CrossFit training and I was skeptical, but a friend of mine told to just try it so I sat in on a class and signed up, took an elements class (reminder this was a little over 2 years ago), and was terrible at everything. But with all the coaching and training that goes on, one of the coaches walks past me and says “You have gotten a lot better,” that motivated me to keep working at it.

How has CrossFit Riverfront helped you reach some of your fitness goals?

CrossFit has made me mentally and physically stronger. I get compliments all the time asking me about how I do it, and I tell them tell straight up, I do CrossFit training. It has made me in better shape, built up better endurance, I compete with other athletes to challenge myself and push myself to limits I didn’t know were possible. Now when I’m with friends they all look up to me when we go out.

What has been your favorite workout? What have you improved on most?

My favorite workouts are the ones with little running and more weights. Power Cleans, Strict Presses, Back squats (which I swore I would never do because I hear about too many injuries, and now I do all the time), Snatches. I love it all. My favorite complex is the BEAR COMPLEX, the combination works every muscle in your body and the heavier you go the harder you have to push yourself. I have improved “cleaning” the bar and “cleaning” it about my head. Figuring out full squats and quarter squats… I used to go down too far, and not enough.

What is your favorite part of the Riv?

Favorite part of the Riv, I would say the people, and the staff/coaches. They aren’t there to TELL you what to do, they are there to coach you and teach you to get the best of your workout. CrossFit can be EXTREMELY intimidating for someone that has never touched a barbell before, and the coaches do an incredible job training you on how to correct your mistakes, rather then yell at you from across the room and embarrass you, or just not acknowledge you at all. They answer any and all questions that you have with personality so it’s not really members and coach, it’s more like your family. Most of all, EVERY time I go, I have a great time. I’m told all the time “You’re still here?!”

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