Time to go Around the Whiteboard with longtime No Excuses Coach, Blake Mattison 
Certifications: CrossFit Level 1, CrossFit Kids Trainer
Occupation: Firefighter/Paramedic
Favorite WOD: Helen
Favorite Lift: Clean
Deadlift: 525
Back Squat: 425
Snatch: 205
Clean and Jerk: 295
Favorite Food: Ice Cream
Favorite Movie: Billy Madison
Favorite Athlete: Emmitt Smith
Dream Job: I’ve got it!
Dream Vacation Destination: Anywhere Laura wants to go
How did you find CrossFit and what drew you to getting started?
“I started CrossFit after getting hired to become a firefighter. I knew the training at the recruit school would include CrossFit. I found No Excuses and my first three workouts included Cindy and Fran. I was hooked! I was drawn by the community and the challenge of each workout.”
How long have you been doing CrossFit?
“Since April 2009.”
How CrossFit changed your life, lifestyle, level of fitness?
“I found my wife through CrossFit! Laura and I see fitness and health as a part of our life and hope that we will always be involved in CrossFit in some way. It has benefited my job as a fireman. I am able to handle the heavy loads and physical demands of my day. I feel more fit and energetic than I was before I started training at No Excuses.”
Have you always known that you wanted to be involved in training and coaching others?
“No, but I have always had the desire to help other people. After being around CrossFit I appreciated how much the coaches had helped me and felt I could contribute the same way to other people.”
What do you love most about coaching others?
“I like seeing the friendships gained and the encouragement given on a daily basis amongst members. I also enjoy seeing the dedication that people have to their training and the positive changes that result from that.”
Tell us about a CrossFit moment or achievement of which you are particularly proud.
“The various workouts I have completed in my turnout [fireman] gear including Fran, Fight Gone Bad, and Hotshots 19.”
What is your funniest CrossFit moment?
“The moment when you slip on the box and look around to see if anyone saw you…you’ve all been there.”
What is one goal you have yet to achieve in CrossFit but are working hard towards?
“I would like to win the CrossFit Games. Or at least beat my wife in some workouts.”
What are your hobbies and interests outside of CrossFit?
“I enjoy spending time with my wife, friends, grilling out, doing yard work, playing golf, video games, and watching movies.”
What is your advice for new members?
“It never gets easier, you just get better at it.”
What do you love most about No Excuses CrossFit?
“That I have had the privilege of watching it grow since 2009 and gaining many friendships along the way. The people are the best part.”