Athlete Spotlight - Everett Smith

1. How did you find out about Crossfit? Word of mouth…a friend told me about this program he was going to that was intense and if I didn’t mind being constantly sore I should give it a try.  My friend was right, it hurt, but it’s the good kind of hurt!

2. What is your favorite Crossfit exercise or WOD?

I really don’t have a favorite. Personally, they all give me heartburn; however, I ‘m kind of reminded of that quote by Friedrich Nietzsche, “that which does not kill us makes us stronger.” So, as long as it doesn’t kill me, it’s a favorite.

3. How long have you been Crossfitting for?

A little over two years.

4. What do you do for a living?

I work for a fitness equipment manufacturer headquartered in the valley.  Although we manufacture exercise equipment, I’m thinking what we really sell is motivation!

5. What are your hobbies?

Raising six children, supporting them in their activities, and we’re over half way there!

6. What are your goals?

To continue to improve flexibility…at my age flexibility is something that often falls through the cracks. It’s amazing how good you feel when you have flexibility.

7. Why do you Crossfit?

When you discover something that makes you feel better and you can feel and see results you stick with it.  In addition, Brad does it right and he makes us do it right. Case in point, we were doing overhead squats and Brad could see I was struggling with just a 45-pound bar.  Brad said, “You’re on PVC buddy until I see otherwise.”  He explained to me that it wasn’t a matter of lack of strength but a true lack of flexibility on my part. Thank you Brad!   I also see a lot of fitness and strength programs around the valley especially those involving youth and I see a lot of young people going through the motions and not being taught proper form and technique.   It’s worth a lot to have total confidence in those instructing you. That’s what you’ll get at CFCV.

8. Any advice for future CrossFitters?

It might look like a race but it’s not. It’s you versus what you did yesterday. Take your time and do it right and you’ll be amazed with the results over time. It’s not something that takes a week or even a month, it takes as long it takes. Your health, your fitness is a life-long endeavor if you want it to be.