Sunday, August 15, 2010 – Athlete Profile: Bryan Youmans

Athlete Profile: Bryan Youmans

1.  In general, what is your background?

Like most everyone here, I am a transplant.  I grew up around Annapolis, Maryland and graduated from the University of Maryland (Go Terps!).  After college, I decided that I was sick of Maryland, got a job in Charleston, and have been down here 7 years.  Up until last year, I had played soccer for about 22 years.  I wrestled in high school as well as club in college, and on moving to Charleston, got involved with Brazilian jiu-jitsu.  I have a shelter dog and a fish (seriously, this thing is a foot long, 5 years old and will mean-mug me if I don’t feed him).  My younger brother just recently moved down here, but looks at me like I’m crazy when I try and get him to workout.  “Fat bottomed girls” just may be the greatest rock song ever.

2.  Age, Occupation?

30, Police Officer

3.  How did you get to know about CrossFit and why did you start?

Several years ago, there was a guy at work who was in great shape, and was raving about CrossFit. He directed me to the main website, and quite honestly, I was overwhelmed and a bit intimidated by it, so I didn’t give it much of a go.  Fast forward to about a year and a half ago, I’m still doing the regular gym thing and sick of it.  I got to talking with Ryan Cromer (coach and co-worker of mine) about CrossFit, and with some help from him, I started following the workouts from the main site and a couple others.  Then in August ’09, I finally made the jump and started at Integrity.

4.  How has CrossFit changed your life, lifestyle, level of fitness?

I have definitely put a lot more emphasis on what I eat.  Before, I had the mindset that I was working out, so it was an excuse to eat whatever I wanted.  Obviously, that doesn’t really work so well.  I look forward to working out, whereas before it was another chore to be done.  As for my fitness, I have recorded my workouts and runs for the last several years.  It’s amazing to look back to when I thought I was in shape, and see how much faster and stronger I’ve become.

5.  Name one goal and/or personal record you would like to accomplish through CrossFit?

CrossFit Total 1000# and hold an Iron Cross on the rings.

6.  Favorite CrossFit moment so far?

When I broke my arm, there was no ice available.  Somebody reached into the fridge and put two Bud Light cans on my arm.  I remember looking down and thinking, “What kind of place do I workout at?”  Seriously, I thought it was hilarious, but I guess since we went Paleo those had to go?

7.  What do you like most about CrossFit Integrity?

The environment is really geared to constantly improving your level of fitness.  The emphasis on nutrition, Olympic lift classes and the coaches are crucial.  All that aside, I really believe that the boards make a huge difference.  If you are a competitive person, you want to be on them.  The boards provide a constant reminder of where you need to be and that getting there requires a whole lot of work.  Oh, and being able to play around on the rings and try gymnastic style exercises is a lot of fun for me.  They are definitely not something you can go and do at your regular gym.

8.  Favorite WOD?

Fran – quick and painful

9.  Least favorite WOD?

I am absolutely awful at OHS, and loathe any workout with them.

10. Favorite movement?

Deadlift

11. Least favorite movement?

Tie, OHS and Curtis P’s (it was a sick individual who created that exercise).

12. Favorite place to eat in Charleston?

Rio Grande.  Yeah it’s a hole in the wall and Mexican food isn’t exactly Paleo-friendly, but do yourself a favor and get a pitcher of the frozen, Texas style margaritas.

CrossFit Integrity, Charleston, SC