July 2024 Member of the Month
We’re excited to announce that Karl has been selected as the 312 Fortitude Athlete of the Month for July! This month, Karl’s dedication and inspiring presence at our gym were highlighted through a heartfelt nomination by one of our coaches. Here’s what they had to say:
“Karl is a consistent 9am class participant. He started last year during what he described as a dark time for him. He hadn’t done much working out since covid and wanted to start prioritising his physical and mental health again. During the last year he has flourished! He has made great leaps and bounds in general but more specifically he has made great progress with ttb, pull ups, snatch, clean and jerks, and du. He always wants to do better so often stays behind or comes early to do extras and always asks questions about his technique. His goal next year is to start competing in the masters division. He said he is fitter and stronger and has lost weight. He said he is enjoying CrossFit and his health journey.”
Get to Know More About Karl
What initially drew you to CrossFit and 312 Fortitude, and what keeps you coming back?
“Whilst surfing though Netflix options, a few years ago, I stumbled upon ‘The fittest on earth’ documentary, which captured the 2019 CrossFit games. It was incredibly inspiring watching these athletes. I had been to bootcamps but hadn’t really lifted weights, so questioned whether it was beyond my ability. After having to take a year out to deal with unexpected health issues I finally made a decision to seize the day and give it a go. After a few months of searching places in the area I dropped into 312 Fortitude and was greeted by the friendly faces of Tish and Andy who put me at ease and reassured me that I didn’t have to be a ‘Matt Fraser’ to join. Tish was great in easing me into my first year of 9ams, making sure I nailed the technique, patiently answering my never ending questions, always challenging and encouraging me. I’ve continued coming to the 9am classes this year and stay motivated by the amazing uncles, aunties, mums and coaches, who inspire me and create an awesome, supportive environment.”
Can you share a highlight or memorable achievement from your time at 312 Fortitude?
“There are many movements in the gym I’m yet to master, but I’m really happy with how my bar work is going, seeing the number of connected kipping pull-ups and toes to bar increasing each week. Looking forward to posting up my first muscle-up sometime in the future. Watch this space!”
What’s your favorite CrossFit movement or exercise, and what do you love about it?
“Power cleans are something I enjoy, as they seem to highlight the combination of gains in strength training, plus they don’t require me to be super flexible.”
How do you maintain your motivation and enthusiasm for CrossFit after all these years?
“I’m yet to clock up my second year so I still feel like a bit of newbie. There are so many areas I can get better at. I’m always checking daily leaderboard on the app to see if I’ve made any progress from the middle of the table : ) Making sure I’m an active and involved Dad also motivates me to be in the best physical shape to keep up with my son. Hopefully in the not too distant future Id like to have a go at a Master competition.”
What do you enjoy doing in your free time outside of the gym?
“My son Kasper keeps me pretty busy, coaching his football team for the past four years, which has been very rewarding. I used to play guitar in bands so occasionally have a noodle at home. I have a passion/obsession for collecting and listening to vinyl, especially old school soul/funk/jazz and a bit of yacht rock. Also love traveling and experiencing new cultures and foods.”
Do you have a favorite book, movie, or TV series/show that you would recommend to others?
“My favourite films are probably the ‘Before’ Trilogy, Three films directed by Richard Linklater, starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, and the TV series I’ve enjoyed the most over the last year and a bit would have to be ‘Bear’ which is about an award-winning chef who returns to Chicago to manage the chaotic kitchen at his deceased brother’s sandwich shop.”
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
“Planning on heading to Vietnam next year. Love the food and have heard it’s a great place to visit with a family.”
If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting their CrossFit journey, what would it be?
“Leave your ego at the door. Start slow and learn technique. The weights will come. Warm up and stretch lots before and after, especially if you’re a master athlete ; )”
We’re proud to have Karl as part of our community and are excited to see him continue to excel and inspire others. Congratulations! Keep up the fantastic work.
