At CrossFit Hale, we like to give a public shout out to folks we feel epitomize our core values: consistency, hard work, positive attitude, overcoming of fears or obstacles and community spirit.
We are lucky enough to have a gym full of amazing people and today we are shining a spotlight on Furkan!
Furkan started at CrossFit Hale in 2017 and has been so consistent and hard working. He always comes to class with an open mind, and his progress reflects that mentality.
Let’s get to know Furkan a little bit better!
Age: 31
Day job: Software Engineer
Dream job: Something related to the sea. Sailor, captain, pirate!?
Can you give us some of your benchmark stats?: I don’t keep track of my workouts, but I can say that I used to lift 2 digit numbers weights in 2017 and now in 2018, I can lift 3 digit numbers.
With simple math, I am expecting to lift 4 digit numbers in 2019. Fingers crossed!
What is your athletic/fitness background?: I was not a sports oriented person, but I used to play soccer and swim in my academic years. Later I practiced Krav Maga for a couple of years.
What’s your biggest strength in the gym?: I like learning new stuff. Even if I don’t do it correctly in first try (most of the time I don’t), I love to keep trying until I learn it. This attitude always bring success.
Biggest weakness?: What I eat is my biggest weakness. I usually have no breakfast, a light lunch, and I eat everything I find for dinner. This is the one of the things I want to improve this year.
From a movement perspective, I have a hard time going upside-down. Handstand push-ups are one of a heck difficult movement.
What’s your drink?: Dark roast coffee. Plain water. Occasionally beer (No IPA.)
What is your current fitness goal?: Actually, I want to see what my physical limits are and be better than yesterday.
What do you enjoy most about Hale?: Basically, all things, especially the sense of community. It is a very fun, happy, colorful place. Sometimes, the best part of my day is in the gym.
What are some improvements you have made since joining Hale?: I have become stronger,more consistent about coming to gym, and I have gotten many PR’s on the board .
Any advice for those new to or considering Hale?: Two things: First, consistency is very important. I recommend that you come as much as you can. Second, doing correct movement is something you always need to keep in mind. Because we are using free weights, it is pretty easy to injure yourself. So pay close attention to what coaches say. Unfortunately, I learned that the hard way!
Most importantly, what do you think is the greatest SPORT MOVIE of all time? White Men Can’t Jump. Apart from it being a sport movie, it is one of the funniest movies of the 90’s!