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….
