Sunday, February 14, 2010 – Athlete Profile: Derrick Cattles

Athlete Profile:  Derrick Cattles

1.  In general, what is your background?

I am a Lowcountry native who was born and raised here in Charleston.  I grew up in Mt. Pleasant and loved living so close to the beach.  After High School I attended Trident Technical College, where I earned my Respiratory Care degree.  I currently work at East Cooper Medical Center and Roper.

2.  Age, Occupation?

26, Respiratory Therapist

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

I was on the beach at Sullivan’s Island in the early summer of ’09 where I met a new friend named Greg who introduced me to the concept of CrossFit. He talked about high intensity training done with coaching from start to finish, and all within an hour. I was egger to start and ended up doing my fist WOD at CrossFit Charleston in Mt. Pleasant. After losing my breakfast twice I new this was what I was looking for in programming but not their coaching. I next went to Lowcountry CrossFit in West Ashley where Nigel put me through a ten minute “Cindy”.  I knew after meeting Brian, Nigel, and Kevin that these were they guys that I wanted training me. I’ve grown with what is now CrossFit Integrity, from multiplying members, to almost tripling our workout space.

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

I did the globo gym workouts for close to three years doing what I thought was achieving fitness. After little visible gains in weight increases on exercises like the bench press and back squats over this time period I was ready for a change.  After doing my first WOD I knew smoking cigarettes and CrossFit do not mix.  I can accredit CrossFit for being smoke free for 8 months!  I can also thank my wonderful girlfriend for getting me off pre-made frozen foods that I depended on working the night shift grind and helping me eat cleaner.  I am very lucky she is a great healthy chef in the kitchen.

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

15 Overhead Squats at bodyweight would be sweet.

6.  Favorite CrossFit moment so far?

Recently clearing 300 on the deadlift 1RM…now if I could get my CrossFit Total to 1,000lbs…

7.  What do you like most about Crossfit Integrity?

I love Integrity for the fact that I get to perform with some very elite Athletes. The camaraderie and competition displayed is very well balanced. I enjoy learning from the experiences of other athletes plus the knowledge of our great coaches.

8.  Favorite WOD?

The Murph…Although I have only done it once (just under an hour) and have yet to do it with a 20lb vest, I love any WOD that increases your mental toughness.

9.  Least favorite WOD?

Any in which I can’t obtain the precious Rx.

10. Favorite movement?

Clean and Jerk

11. Least favorite movement?

Double-Unders

12. Favorite place to eat in Charleston?

It’s got to be Fonduely Yours in Mt. Pleasant. It offers a great atmosphere and just a fun dinning experience.  Also, FYI I’m having an oyster roast Friday March 5 on James Island for anyone who would like to attend.

CrossFit Integrity, Charleston, SC