Q: When did you first hear about CrossFit and how did you get started?

 

I first heard of CrossFit back in the beginning 2011 when a couple friends of mine that live out of state started doing it.  That summer, I did my first CrossFit type workout at a cottage in Upstate NY.  A simple one, 4rds for time.  400 meter run and 50 air squats.  My form was terrible and I couldn’t walk normally for 4 days after.  I continued to talk to my friends about it and finally signed up in February of 2012.

 

Q: Why did you stick with it?

 

I originally didn’t stick with it.  My first stint with CrossFit was for about 1 year and 3 months.  I stopped going when I moved and built a CrossFit garage gym that was barely used.  I always stayed close to the sport watching the regional and games every year and getting a WOD in a few times a year in the garage.  In 2018, I was in the worst shape of my life and knew I needed to get out of my funk.  I googled Bell City and saw that Nicole, Melissa, Roland and Alex were the new owners.  I knew Nicole and Roland from my first go around at Bell City and I sent an email that night asking if I could drop in.  I haven’t looked back since and couldn’t be happier.

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Q: What do you enjoy most about Bell City CrossFit?

 

There are so many things to list here, but I will keep it simple; the people.  It starts with Nicole and Melissa, then all of the coaches, last and certainly not least, all of the members.  It is more than just a community, it’s an extended family.  This is extremely evident day in and out at Bell City both inside and outside of the gym.  Shout out to the 530am faithful that hold each other accountable and put up with me so early in the morning :)

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Q: Most and least favorite lift?

 

The only movement I really don’t like are overhead squats.  I would enjoy them a lot more if I didn’t have mobility issues.  And yes, I know I can be better with focusing on my mobility issues!

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Q. What do you train for?

 

I train to live a long and healthy life.  With having two kids, it is important that I am around for them and their children and their children…I hope!  Both my parents have underlying health issues that run in the family and I want to make sure those don’t don’t impact me.  CrossFit provides emphasis on functional movements and nutrition will help with my goals!

 

Q: What is your greatest CrossFit success story?

 

One of the greatest things about CrossFit is that I feel that everyday I get to the gym in the morning it’s another success story/accomplishment.  Every PR that I get, every new movement that I’m able to do is such a great feeling and keeps me wanting to go back for more.

 

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Q: What do you do for work?

 

I work for The Hartford where I lead a team of Underwriters for commercial lines insurance.  Similar to CrossFit and the WOD, everyday is a bit different since no two risks that we Underwrite are the same.  My team knows that I will never say no to CrossFit gyms :)

 

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Q: What do you do for fun with you’re not at the gym?

 

Beside the obvious of spending time with family and friends, I enjoy pretty much all things that have to do with the outdoors.  I hike throughout the year (yes even when it's -10 outside), skiing both on snow and water, golfing, disc golf, road and mountain biking, and almost all backyard type games.

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Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in CrossFit, but not sure it’s the right fit for them?

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First I would tell them to go have a conversation with Melissa, Nicole, any coach at Bell City.  Have a goal, a SMART goal along with reasons why they want to join and right those things down.  Lastly, give it an honest try and stick with it.  The beginning will be tough and sure you’ll be sore, but it is well worth it in the long run. 

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Q: Favorite breakfast meal?

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Very simple, bacon, eggs, raw spinach and some fruit.  I have it 5-6 days a week.

 

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Congratulations Ben, and thank you for sharing your story!  

When you see Ben at Bell City, be sure to give him a high-five and congratulate him!!!