Name: John Burns
Age: 42
Occupation: Network Security Engineer
Which class time do you usually attend? 9:30.
Favorite WOD: Anything with Sled pushes.
Favorite Lift: Thrusters
Deadlift Max: 405
Back squat Max: 285
Favorite Food: Steak!
Favorite Movie: Idiocracy – It’s hilarious!
Favorite Athlete: Roger Federer
Dream Job: I have my dream job!
Dream Vacation Destination: Snow ski in the Alps or Chile
How long have you been CrossFitting?
“I started July 2013, so just over a year.”
What keeps you coming back/motivated?
“I love the competitive nature of it. Plus after Stacey yelled at me to keep doing burpees during a WOD I was hooked, I saw how working out as a group makes you work harder!”
How did you find CrossFit?
“I had a friend that was doing CrossFit in Canton. He told me how it changed his life, so I found a gym close by and signed up. The first day I had to ask what a burpee was.”
What is your athletic background (If applicable)?
“I played soccer through college then some amateur league. I’ve been playing tennis for about the last 7 years.”
How has CrossFit changed your life, lifestyle, level of fitness?
“I’ve dropped 25 lbs since starting CrossFit which is nice but what I love is how it’s affected all the other things in my life. Guys that used to beat me at tennis fear me now. I thought I’d never play soccer again (too old and fat) but have been on a team for about 6 months now.”
What is the one thing you have done here that you never thought you could do? (muscle up, double unders, heavy deadlift, run a mile, etc.)
“Pullups – when I started CrossFit I could barely do 1. I’m up to 10 unbroken now.”
Who or what motivates/inspires you?
“Trying to keep up with Glen Wilkins is goal of mine, maybe someday! Now I have my son, Justin, doing CrossFit as well so not getting beat is another motivator.”
What is your proudest CrossFit achievement?
“Deadlifting 405 was big because you’ve basically filled up the bar with 45 lb plates. Made me feel like I had beaten the bar!”
Name one goal/personal achievement you would like to achieve through CrossFit?
“Muscle ups look fun!”
Hobbies/Interests outside of CrossFit?
“I play tennis and soccer weekly”
Any advice for new members?
“See it as you’re just like everyone else in the gym. You’re good at some stuff and improving on other stuff. We’re all the same.”
Any additional thoughts/comments:
“This year of CrossFit has flown by, just looking back to how much my physical fitness has improved is fun!”
Coach Brandon’s Take:
“John is a really hard worker and you know he’s always going to give his best in the workouts. He’ll have fun when it’s time to do that, but when it’s time to lift or WOD he’s all business. One of the best things about John is that he’s always thinking. He’s wondering how the WOD is set up, how much weight he should use, what should he scale. Those little strategic items have helped John see improvements in CrossFit. He’s lost about 25 pounds since he started training with us and has seen improvements in other sports and areas of his life. He loves CrossFit so much, he got his son Justin to join. John’s handwork has brought him a long way and will continue to allow him to succeed.”