Drew Peterson – “I believe you are a by-product of the people you surround yourself with.”

Drew Peterson – “I believe you are a by-product of the people you surround yourself with.”

  December 12, 2020

Meet Solution 1 Member:

Drew Peterson – 41 – Account Executive

What would you tell others who might be considering Solution 1 CrossFit?

Go for it. I’d start off doing a LeanFit class which focuses a lot more on body weight & cardio and gives you a chance to get more comfortable with the gym layout and different classes available. Commit yourself to going at least 12 times in your first month and if you don’t enjoy it or start to see some improvement then you can always stop.

What was your fitness/health background before Solution 1?

I was involved in sports all the way through high school even though I was a bit injury-prone. In college I continued to lift weights and stayed active. However, once I graduated college and started working, I didn’t spend as much time focused on my health and gradually got further out of shape. I didn’t like how I felt and certainly not how I looked. The turning point for me was running in the Head for the Cure 5K with my sister, who had been diagnosed with a brain tumor in her early 30s. That race rekindled my competitive fire and motivated me to improve my health. Later that fall I ran in a ½ marathon and I started trying other exercise programs, including P90x and Beach Body. Those were tough workouts and I saw results, but it was really difficult to motivate myself to do the same exercises over and over again, by myself, in the basement. I was ready to do something different and I had heard about Crossfit so I wanted to check it out. I went to an initial consultation and while I felt intimidated by not knowing the terminology and the unknown movements, I loved the idea of just showing up and having a new workout to face. I still enjoy it after about 6 years.

Did you have any crossfit experience before S1?

None. While I have lifted weights since high school, the only thing I’d used a barbell for was bench pressing and squats.

What might have stood in your way of joining a CrossFit gym in the past?

The unknown. New people, unknown movements, new equipment/workout gear and the cost was more than what I was paying for at the gym.

What brought you to Solution 1?

I was starting a new job and had less flexibility with my work schedule so I needed to be able to find an early morning option. I had heard a little bit about Crossfit before and when searching for options in Shawnee I found Solution1. Since I had grown tired of my basement and outdoor running routine, I was ready to try something different. My rationale was – if I’m starting a new job then this is also the perfect opportunity to start a new gym.

How would you describe Solution 1?

It’s a supportive, fitness-minded social community that introduces new ways to push you physically and mentally.

How would you describe the community you’ve found at s1?

It is the individuals (coaches and members) that help make Solution1 a great place. I believe that you’re a by product of the people you surround yourself with. And I like being around other people who are self-driven, have a strong work ethic and have a desire to improve their well being. When you mix several of these folks together then they tend to attract other like-minded people which results in a competitive yet fun, welcoming community. I’ve met some great people that I would not have likely met, including a few neighbors!

What has been your biggest transformation since joining Solution 1?

The transformation has been more towards my attitude about trying and learning new things. CrossFit can be a very humbling experience, but once you’ve gotten through some really tough workouts you realize that you’re capable of doing a lot more than what you think.

What goals have you met through Solution 1?

My goals and reasons for doing Crossfit are a bit vain. I want to look good and feel strong, which makes me feel more confident. I want to eat and drink whatever I want without having second thoughts. I want to set a good example for my daughters by staying physically fit and active. I want to be able to ride bikes, go hiking and do other activities with my family and friends. Solution1 and Crossfit help maintain my lifestyle goals.

How do you feel CrossFit helps you in your daily life and performance?

I work out in the 5:20 AM class so when I get home around 6:30 I feel like I’ve already crossed off a big to-do. Knowing that I’ve already accomplished something when many people are still getting out of bed is very satisfying.

How do you feel CrossFit benefits you personally/emotionally/spiritually?

Especially right now since I work 100% remote from my home office, the greatest benefit I get is the social interaction and the opportunity to get out of the house for a bit.