July 2013 Athlete of the Month – Felix Feliz

1.Were you active prior to Cross Fit?

I have always been active. I did track in High school as well as some baseball and basketball. then i started lifting weights when i got to college and started playing in basketball leagues. Right before i started crossfit i played basketball 2-3 times a week and lifted weights 3-4 times a week.

2. When did you first start doing Cross Fit?

I started doing crossfit about 4 months ago and i havent looked back since.

3. What were your thoughts after your first workout?

it was a very humbling experience. I thought i was in a very good shape since i played a lot of basketball and lifted weights until that first work out. I struggled so much to complete the first workout, it was crazy. After i was done, I realized that i was not in as good of a shape as i thought i was. like i said, it was a very humbling experience.

          
4. What do you enjoy the most about Cross Fit?

The environment. it all starts with the coaches and staff. they are awesome and very knowledgeable. the people that go there are great too. its almost like a big family!

5. What were your goals when you first started?

My goals were to get my legs stronger, to be more explosive (for basketball) and to develop a stronger core (lower back pain).

What are they now?

My goals are still the same. i have gotten better and achieved some of my goals but there's always room for improvement.

6. What is your favorite Cross Fit movement?

deadlifts is by far my favorite cross fit movement.                                                                      

7. What is your least favorite movement?

Overhead squats is my least favorite because of my lack of shoulder mobility it is very difficult to open my shoulders all the way.

8. What kind of nutrition plan do you follow and has that changed since you started Cross Fit?
       
I didnt really follow any type of plan prior to CrossFit. I just stayed away from fried stuff and fast food. After starting doing crossfit, i am more aware of what i eat because you need a good diet in order to have good WOD's. I have started to incorporate paleo into my diet and I have noticed a difference. It's a big change for me but my goal is to be 100% paleo within the next 2-3 months.

9. Talk about your results from doing CrossFit?

I am stronger than i was before. i am more explosive when i play basketball, i am quicker on my feet. My muscle endurance has gone up and so has my stamina. My core is so much stronger, i no longer have lower back pain. i have way more energy than when started doing crossfit.