Kipping it Real with Hari!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words.  June’s Athlete of the Month is Hari Kumar.  Hari was chosen because of his encouraging and positive attitude! Hari is a strong presence at OPCF’s 5:30am class and has progressed so much over his short time at OPCF! Learn more about Hari below.

1. How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

I joined OPCF in March 2018. Ooooohh I completed 1-year anniversary.

2. What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout?

My first CrossFit session was in Dallas Nov 2017 for a month @CrossFit3040. I felt Nausea on first day, then I understood how far my body got relaxed and realized how hard my dad used to work during my schooling. My friends and coach helped me to bounce back, Moreover I liked the ambiance of group workouts. Here at OPCF, Bootcamp helped to adjust to the basic techniques, later 5:30/6:30 am team played a key role especially Tony, Angie, Jamie, Taylor, Amy & others made it easy for me.

3. What has been your favorite workout?

I would say Murph and I like weightlifting workouts.

4. What is your favorite cheat meal?

I am a foodie, I love Biriyani & Mutton Kheema by Pranay, Mutton Haleem from Hyderabadi House. I do eat whatever I like, and I don’t follow any strict diet as of now, but I make sure to eat lot of vegetables and fruits.

5. What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now?  

I wanted to be an aeronautical engineer and I used to dream about traveling & exploring other side of the World. Here I am working as a Sr. QA Analyst at H&R Block.

6. What do you like to do outside of work?

I am game for any outside activity. Particularly I love playing badminton, Table Tennis, Volleyball, Hiking, Dancing, Cooking, Traveling, watching movies/Netflix documentaries and hanging out with friends.

7. What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

There’s a misconception outside that CrossFit is only for strong people. I believe that CrossFit workouts made them stronger. As a newbie its fine if you cannot complete the full workout, no one does at that stage. Learn basics, make friends, follow coaches, be patient and consistent. OPCF community cheers for everyone, especially beginners get great encouragement. Watch James’s Friday fitness videos on YouTube, they help a lot. You will meet many passionate talents here and you don’t take much time to communicate, so just jump in and you will love it.

8. What is your favorite lift?

Power/Hang power clean.

9. What’s your biggest “GOAT”?

Many – mainly Rowing, and gymnastic movements. I am slowly getting there.

10. What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF?  

Crossfit became part of my daily routine (Weekdays) 🙂 and it keeps me active the whole day. I am feeling more stronger and healthier than ever. I lost some weight too and I got some great friends here. I started exploring many activities outside and I used to restrict some food items because of health issues but not anymore.  Thank you each one of OPCF members for cheering and making me/others to push their limits. Special Thanks to all the Coaches for helping me to improve my workout style day by day.    

11. What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far?

Completing Murph 2019 Workout, I thought to make it to half Murph initially. Thanks everyone who encouraged, Tony, Taylor & Angie for strategy. A big Shout out to my friend Derek who joined for last 1 mile run and pushing me till the end with his inspiring words.

12. How do you fit working out into your weekly schedule?

I try to be in morning 5:30 class but due to my weird bed timings and weekend activities its difficult to be consistent to morning classes, but I try to catch up in the evening classes.   

13. What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet?

In Gym Double unders and Bar muscle ups are on table top. Outside I have a bucket list to strike off. Sky dive, Playing Guitar, Exploring US agriculture, Scuba diving, Trekking in Himalayas, Europe Trip with friends, Stairways to Heaven Hike, list goes on…. 

Kipping it Real with Amy

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words.  May’s Athlete of the Month is Amy Creason.  Amy works really hard and is consistent in the gym. We’ve seen Amy grow so much as an athlete over her time at OPCF and that is due, in large part, to her great attitude and dedication to improving! Learn more about Amy below.

1. How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

My husband, Derek, and I joined OPCF when we moved to the area in September.

2. What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? 

Lots of things were going through my mind– I felt as if I was dying, but I was also proud I survived (even if just barely.) I was frustrated at being so bad that I knew I had to keep coming back. 

3. What has been your favorite workout?

Any workout that I’ve been able to click that Rx button!!!!!

4. What is your favorite cheat meal?

Pollo Magnifico from Jose Peppers, with espinaca and chips– of course!

5. What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now? 

I had ambitions to be NASCAR driver! While I don’t get to race and drive really fast, I do have lots of experience with a 5 point harness and drive around all day as a stay-at-home-mom to our 4 kids, ages 10, 8, 4, 2. I do hold a license as a mental health therapist and might explore getting back into part-time work in the next year or two.

6. What do you like to do outside of work? 

I love to travel and explore the outdoors. I really like plants and gardening, Harry Potter, and Survivor. 

7. What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?   

Be proud of your decision to start! Be proud of every single win along the way and let us know, too, so we can celebrate with you! 

8. What is your favorite lift?

Cleans– any version! 

9. What’s your biggest “GOAT”?   

My first pull-up. I wanted it so bad. I had even put up a bar in our master bathroom doorway so I could keep practicing at home. One day at the gym, I asked Derek to come over to see how much further I needed to go because I was really struggling. But then, much to my surprise, I actually made it up over that bar and it was the greatest moment ever. Oh my gosh, so exciting.

10. What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF?  

I’m stronger! There have been slight changes on the scale, but I mostly I have lost inches, I’ve improved my all of my lifts in technique and weight, and am making progress on the gymnastics skills. I’m more confident in myself in learning I’m able to push myself way harder ever have.

11. What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far?  

Really, my proudest accomplishment is learning to love working out. I’ve learned to love my body not because of how it looks but for what I’ve been able to work to make it do. My motivation for working out is no longer a consequence for calories consumed, but to become stronger, fitter, and more capable. I never thought this would be me!

12. How do you fit working out into your weekly schedule?  

Very strategically. With Derek and I both doing CrossFit and having young kids, scheduling workouts can be a chore, but it’s always a priority. Different schedules work at different times based on all that we have going on. During the winter sports season, Derek and I actually had assigned class dates and times to ensure we could make our four days. The spring schedule has allowed up more flexibility. Currently, Mondays and Fridays we have it planned so that one parent does gymnastics drop off and then heads to the gym, while the other is at home with the boys doing homework and gymnastic pick up– all in time to bring all the kids to the gym right as the first parent finishes the workout. After which, a trade-off happens and parent one heads home with all the kiddos while parent two gets to work out. There are times that in order to get our workouts, we both need to be there at the same time and we are gracious for OPCF being family friendly, letting our kids play in the front area and outside. The biggest thing in our scheduling conversations is that it’s not “if” we are going to go, just “when” we are going to be able to fit it in. 

13. What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet?  

Everything. I want to do it all. I really want to do handstand walks. 

Kipping it Real with Ryan!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words.  April’s Athlete of the Month is Ryan Cooke.  Ryan was chosen because of his positive attitude in the gym and work ethic! Ryan brings a great energy to classes and gives his all each workout! Learn more about Ryan below.

1. How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

 This June will be 2 years at OPCF.

2. What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout?

What did my friend coax me into?!

3. What has been your favorite workout?

I love a good sprint style workout with a moderately heavy barbell. Clangin n bangin is my favorite.

4. What is your favorite cheat meal?

Gotta be pizza and DQ Blizzard or Sheridan’s custard.

5. What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now?  

Growing up, I watched the original CSI and thought that was awesome so I wanted to be a crime scene investigator. Now I am in the family business of construction sales.

6. What do you like to do outside of work?

I love anything outdoors – family walks, golf, especially duck hunting.

7. What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

Don’t be shy and don’t be afraid to embrace the suck. The workouts are equally as painful for everyone else there.

8. What is your favorite lift?

Back squats all day and twice on Sunday.  

9. What’s your biggest “GOAT”?

I have a massive disdane for Assault bike. I know I suck at it, but I can never motivate myself enough to just get on it and get better.

10. What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF?  

I defintely feel stronger and have more energy throughout the day. I have been able to get out of my comfort zone and get into some dark places during workouts.

11. What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far?

Finally hitting a body weight snatch and making some lifelong friendships.

12. How do you fit working out into your weekly schedule?

Well things have gotten a lot harder to manage after the birth of my daughter, but I get in when I can and make the most of it while I am there.

13. What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet?  

Inside the gym: I am so close to handstand walks but I am just not there yet. Outside the gym: I want travel across Europe – Ireland, Scottland, and Italy.

Kipping it Real with Laura!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words.  March’s Athlete of the Month is Laura Still.  Laura was chosen because of her work ethic which shows through with her flawless movements. Laura never makes excuses and is always willing to take the time to do everything right! Learn more about Laura below.

1. How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

I started April 21, 2018.

2. What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout?

I remember thinking that is was difficult but fun and was really glad I had done the workout.  

3. What has been your favorite workout?

I like any of the workouts that have the 21-15-9 format (unless it is 21 calories on the bike!)

4. What is your favorite cheat meal?

Pulled pork and fries from Joe’s KC.

5. What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now?  

I was born into a musical family so never thought of being anything but a musician. I am a retired Air Force musician and a retired school teacher.

6. What do you like to do outside of work?

I love to dance and of course, CrossFit.    

7. What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

Take it slow, don’t lift too much weight too soon, and be consistent coming to class. And don’t quit!   

8. What is your favorite lift?

Anything with a clean. 

9. What’s your biggest “GOAT”?

I have 3 “goats”: double unders, rope climb and pull ups. Take your pick!

10. What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF?  

I’ve dropped weight, put on muscle and gotten stronger.  Pretty cool at this stage in life.

11. What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF?  

Just making it through each workout. I’m always amazed that I can get through some of them! I’ve never done anything that has pushed me physically like this.

12. How do you fit working out into your weekly schedule?

Because I am retired, I actually schedule my week around CrossFit workouts.

13. What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet?

Travel to Europe.

Kipping it Real with Brad!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words.  February’s Athlete of the Month is Brad Cusick.  Brad was chosen because of how hard he’s worked over his time at OPCF. Athletes can look to fellow athletes, such as Brad, who are succeeding by putting in the work on form and technique before adding weight. His work ethic will help him to continue to achieve his goals while staying healthy in the process! Learn more about Brad below.

1. How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

 I just finished my 1st year in January.

2. What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout?

I thought I maybe bit off more than I could chew.   

3. What has been your favorite workout?

I like the running workouts, and pull-up workouts.

4. What is your favorite cheat meal?

Can I have just one?  I pretty much eat what I want in moderation. Don’t hate me.  

5. What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now?  

I was going to be a comic book artist. I work for Overland Park Fire Department as the Deputy Chief of Administration.

6. What do you like to do outside of work?

Hang out with my family.    

7. What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

Stick with it, you’ll be glad you did.   

8. What is your favorite lift?

Snatches are growing on me.  

9. What’s your biggest “GOAT”?

I have no idea what that means…. 

10. What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF?  

I feel more energized.  I work out over my lunch hour so it really helps break up the day and reduce stress.

11. What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far?

It’s hard to say.  I did a 24 ft handstand walk for the first time.  I’m pretty excited that I can do muscle-ups – that is not something I really thought I could do. 

12. How do you fit working out into your weekly schedule?

I work out over lunch.  I have it easy because I can walk to the gym in less than 5 minutes – I just work up the hill.  

Kipping it Real with Anna!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words.  January’s Athlete of the Month is Anna Eftink.  Anna was chosen because of how hard she works in the gym and her positive attitude! She spends extra time working on her skills/movements after or before class and it has been paying off! Learn more about Anna below.

1. How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

I started coming to OPCF in August of 2017.

2. What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout?

“That was kind of fun! Should I be sweating this much?

3. What has been your favorite workout?

Probably the 5K row we did over the summer. I love rowing, but I really didn’t think I could finish. That was probably the first time I decided I was going to stick with CrossFit.

4. What is your favorite cheat meal?

The kids meal at Culvers! It’s the best deal! The portion is perfect, you get a free scoop of custard, AND if you save up 10 scoopie coupons you get a free kids meal!

5. What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now?  

I was that kid who wanted to do everything: doctor, farmer, lawyer, country singer, trick rider, and baker all at once! Now I work as a youth minister at Church of the Ascension.

6. What do you like to do outside of work?

Outside of work I love to go hiking, read books, play sand volleyball, watch sunsets, fiddle around with food in the kitchen, and catch up with friends or family.

7. What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

Don’t be afraid to jump in with both feet! Everyone starts somewhere and we have some really amazing people here who are glad to help you with anything. Be patient with yourself, but set goals and find someone that wants to hold you accountable. I certainly would not still be in the gym without Jon and Emily!

8. What is your favorite lift?

Currently I really enjoy cleans and I love seeing them in the workouts!

9. What’s your biggest “GOAT”?

I really want to be able to kick up into a handstand. The handstand was my first CrossFit goal and I had hoped to get it by Christmas. If you happen to have any tips, suggestions, comments, or advice to offer, I’m all ears!

10. What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF?  

Especially in the last few months I’ve become a much more confident person again. Moving to Kansas City was considerably harder for me than I wanted to admit for a long time. It was really scary realizing that my first “big kid” job was at the largest Catholic church in the state, and I let it knock the wind out of me for a while. It has taken a hot minute, but I’m finding my voice again! Philippians 4:13 is our school’s theme for the year and I repeat it frequently!

11. What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far?

Getting strict pull-ups! It was a really good day when I finally got those!

12. How do you fit working out into your weekly schedule?

Planners and to-do lists are two of my best friends and I can’t keep organized without them. Workouts are generally scheduled around work and prayer times.

13. What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet?

I want to train for and then run the Pike’s Peak Ascent, which is a half marathon going up Pike’s Peak. It is a horrible idea, but also pretty fantastic!

Kipping it Real with Krista!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words.  November’s Athlete of the Month is Krista Martin.  Krista was chosen because of how hard she works day in and day out at the gym. Krista also has such a positive attitude and attacks each challenge that comes her way! Learn more about Krista below.

 

1. What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout?

My very first CrossFit workout was Fight Gone Bad at Plano CrossFit in 2007 and I thought to myself…damn I am not in shape AT ALL!

  1. What has been your favorite workout?

It is a tie – Fight Gone Bad and Murph. I know…I am weird.

  1. What is your favorite cheat meal?

Pizza and any bar food…nachos, fried foods, burgers. I’m sure you get the picture by now.

  1. Where do you work?     

TouchNet in Transaction Services.

  1. What do you like to do outside of work?

Outside of being at OPCF, hangout with my moody dog Hugo, family and friends. Plus go to the movies, sporting events and concerts.

6. What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

 It gets better and you will start to be able to do movements you never thought possible. Plus you will make some great friends. Some of my closest friends have come from people I met at CrossFit.

  1. What is your favorite lift?

Deadlift.

  1. What’s your biggest “GOAT”?

A pull-up…I just want to do a pull up!

 

  1. What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF?  

Improving my back squat. I injured myself a few years ago doing back squats. It is the one movement I hated doing mostly because I knew I wasn’t doing it right. I have received great coaching on improving my mobility and form which has helped tremendously.

  1. What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far?

Getting half way up on a rope climb. I could never figure out the foot work and with the coaches help I got that. Now just the confidence to go all the way up knowing I have to come back down.

 

  1. What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet?
I want to go on a safari in South Africa. If you know me..I love animals and the county looks absolutely beautiful.

Kipping it Real with Colby!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words.  October’s Athlete of the Month is Colby Everett.  Colby was chosen because not only is he an amazing athlete, but he is also humble and has positive energy each time he’s at OPCF! Learn more about Colby below.

 

 

1. What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout?

I started to doing CrossFit regularly in the summer of 2016 in Washington, D.C. So I think that would have been my first CrossFit workout. I just remember how much I loved breathing hard and moving heavy weight at the same time. I’ve always been athletic, so this seemed like the best of both worlds!

  1. What has been your favorite workout?

I don’t know if I have one particular favorite workout, but I love when Cody programs those nasty bicouplets where you amrap two movements, rest a short amount of time, and then amrap another two movements, and so on… Those are probably my favorite. Otherwise, anything with a heavy barbell and muscle ups!

  1. What is your favorite cheat meal?

My favorite cheat meal is a GIANT pizza from Papa Kenos or a burger and fries from BRGR. And tacos. I love tacos.

  1. Where do you work?     

I’m a third-year law student at the University of Kansas. I work as a law clerk at Wallace Saunders; a law firm in Overland Park. I will be starting as an associate attorney there next fall.

  1. What do you like to do outside of work?

School/work/CrossFit is basically my life. I love riding motorcycles, fly fishing, and shooting guns when I have time.

6. What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

The best advice I can give is to persevere in the long-term. Life and fitness are both marathons, not sprints. Likewise you don’t reap a harvest immediately after sowing the seeds. So show up everyday and focus on the little improvements.

  1. What is your favorite lift?

My favorite lift is probably a good ol’ fashioned squat clean.

  1. What’s your biggest “GOAT”?

My biggest GOAT is probably my jerk and high volume HSPU.

 

  1. What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF?  

Since being at OPCF, I have seen a ton of changes in my CrossFit performance. I’m the strongest I have ever been, my gymnastics have improved greatly, and, in particular, I’m a lot better at rope climbs!

  1. What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far?

My proudest accomplishment so far is probably getting 15 UB muscle ups in a workout. I am also really happy with my front squat—I PR’d it at OPCF at 395.

 

  1. What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet?
I’ve always had aspirations of competing individually, but I’ve never jumped on it. Maybe someday soon!

Kipping it Real with Ashlee!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words.  September’s Athlete of the Month is Ashlee Kessen.  Ashlee was chosen by the owners, and nominated by a member, because of her dedication and commitment to being the best athlete she can be. Day in and day out we see how hard Ashlee works during class, and after. It’s inspiring to other athletes!  Learn more about Ashlee below.

 

1. What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout?

It didn’t look this hard on the CrossFit/Netflix documentary! It was extremely humbling and continues to be every day.

  1. What has been your favorite workout?

I really enjoy anything with rowing or deadlifts. Also, I did a variation of DT at the Meshugge Terminus Summer competition and really loved it.

  1. What is your favorite cheat meal?

Saturated Fat + Carb combos.

Examples: pizza or burger and fries.

  1. Where do you work?     

I’m a medical device sales rep for Olympus. I sell surgical camera across the state, so essentially I work in my car.

  1. What do you like to do outside of work?

Be at OPCF! Since we moved here in January, OPCF has truly became our family. Me and my hot husband (Jake) were incredibly fortunate to drop in one day and have Kevin Jones convince us to buy a membership THAT day. I cant imagine what life here would be like without you all!

6. What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

CrossFit in general can be very intimidating at times, especially in the beginning. OP has great coaches and resources to help you and everyone here genuinely wants you to do your best! Keep grinding!

  1. What is your favorite lift?

Front Squats! I love the core + leg combo

  1. What’s your biggest “GOAT”?

Everything. But especially anything gymnastic.

 

  1. What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF?  

I think I’ve gotten more mentally tough, especially during the long wods. Also, I’ve been here for 9 months and I have PR’d every lift!

  1. What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far?

I would say the best one yet would be breaking the 200lb barrier for back squat.

 

  1. What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet?
Muscle Ups… I’m coming for ya!

Kipping It Real with John!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words.  August’s Athlete of the Month is John Haertling.  John was chosen because of how hard he works and his consistency in the gym. John wants to always improve, and has the drive to do so, which is shown by him giving his best every time.  Learn more below about John!

 

1. What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout?

I was surprised at how exhausting the workouts could be, but my adrenaline was pumping and I was eager to go back and try another class.

  1. What has been your favorite workout?

I like Murph and I look forward to it as it really tests your endurance, strength, and mental toughness to get through it. Although this past year, I thought I was going to have a heat stroke.

  1. What is your favorite cheat meal?

Joe’s KC, Waldo Pizza, Beer Kitchen, Westside Local…I could go on and on.

  1. Where do you work?     

I’m an Account Executive with Travelers National Property.

  1. What do you like to do outside of work?

I’d like to say that I have an exciting and cool life outside of work, but with a 3 year old and 2 month old – they keep me honest. I do know all the words to the children’s book, “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do you see?”.

6. What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

My advice would be to consistently go as much as your body will allow you. You’ll learn a lot from the coaches and the other members in your workout. Also, they’ll hold you accountable and be there to cheer you on when you PR – shout out to the 5:30AM class regulars.

  1. What is your favorite lift?

Snatch – My form isn’t perfect, but I like the challenge of such a complex movement.

  1. What’s your biggest “GOAT”?

Anything gymnastics related including ring muscle up and walking on my hands.

 

  1. What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF?  

I recently had my annual physical and my doctor said that my blood work and weight were the best they’ve been in the past 3 years.

  1. What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far?

I can do a bar muscle up – it’s far from pretty, but I can heave myself up there.

  1. What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet?
I’d like to travel to Germany for Oktoberfest (without kids).