I was always searching for ways to better myself physically for my career and constantly felt like I was not doing enough or the workouts were not intense enough to truly mimic what it is like fighting a fire. I was fortunate enough to meet a few firemen along the way who found Crossfit, and spoke volumes about its intensity and how it correlated with our jobs. Running 5 miles at a fast pace is completely different from running into a burning building already fatigued from leading out the hose line or breaking a door down and then having to go to work.
In the short time I have been at CrossFit Chicago, I can say with all honesty that I have found what I have been searching for and so much more. I have been welcomed into a community of athletes that push a workout pace that is second to none and coaches that will except nothing but your best effort. You will find friendships forged by battling a grueling workout and find a completely different understanding of what you thought giving 100% really is. Every day I am learning something new and gaining a better understanding of how to push myself when I feel like I have nothing left in the tank.
CrossFit Chicago has given me confidence in myself as an athlete and as a fireman. It has given me the tools to do my job to best of my ability and for that I will be forever grateful. Any chance I get to push someone interested in Crossfit to go to CrossFit Chicago, especially firemen, I let them know how greatly CrossFit Chicago has improved my health and outlook on life.
(May ’12)
JoelR was proudly our Member of the Month Mar 2012.