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 Ryan Peebles. Ryan was chosen because of how hard he works and how he continually challenges himself. Ryan keeps others accountable and always has an encouraging word for his fellow athletes! Learn more below about Ryan!
1. What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout?
Everything hurts. This is awesome. What time tomorrow?
- What has been your favorite workout?
I seem to gravitate more towards chippers; although, I’ve done King Kong a few times and that’s a lot of fun too. Full disclosure, I had to scale the deadlift weight because I’m not interested in a hernia.
- What is your favorite cheat meal?
Pancakes. If you’re a fan of Kendrick Farris, or just pancakes in general, he has a great slogan/t-shirt–Pancakes for PRs.
- Where do you work?
I am the Director of Project Management for Bernstein-Rein, a full-service advertising/marketing company in KCMO. We work with large to small brands across the world developing commercials, radio, outdoor, social, websites, events and even apps. It’s very fast paced, at times unclear, but fun… kind of like CrossFit ha!
- What do you like to do outside of work?
I’m an outdoor junkie. Snowboarding/skiing, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, golfing, boating, basketball, football, DIYing, grilling and backyard anything! Basically, if it’s outdoors–I’m in.
6. What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?
Most newbie advice revolves around being humble and working on progressions. Absolutely, 1,000% true. But for most newbies you have to be in the gym to do so. Accountability is crucial, which is why I advise to introduce yourself to several members–especially during the class time you typically attend. The community aspect of CrossFit will keep you motivated, accountable and coming back for more. OPCF has a great community and is very welcoming to guests and new members.
- What is your favorite lift?
Snatch is my favorite lift, but my favorite movement is pistols.
- What’s your biggest “GOAT”?
Assault Bike. Every time I see the Assault Bike in a WOD, I think it’s a typo… “surely they don’t really mean 20 calories. That would take the forever.”
- What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF?
I moved to KC in May 2016. My previous box was well rounded; however, they definitely had more of a focus on conditioning (aka we ran a lot). Since joining OPCF, yes we run and now I groan about it, but OPCF strength cycles have been very progressive and allowed me to achieve new PRs. AKA OPCF has made me stronger.
- What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far?
Have you ever heard of GoRuck? If not, no worries… you’re likely saving yourself some time and pain haha. GoRuck has several events ranging from Light (4-6 hrs), Tough (10-12 hrs), Heavy (24+ hrs) and Selection (48 hrs). I recently finished a GoRuck Heavy, covering over 42 miles and carrying everything heavy, over Memorial Day weekend. I was proud of not only finishing the event, but also memorializing some great men/women who have served our country.
