The key to an effective class is programming, structure, community and COACHING. I think you all agree that we have some AMAZING coaches! To further enhance the training, CrossFit 88 would like to officially welcome Cheryl DeGuzman and Keith Garcia to our coaching staff. We are thrilled to have them both onboard and look forward to learning from them. If you have any questions feel free to ask them for assistance, they are excited to put their knowledge to good use.
Coach Cheryl:
"Whether it was monkey bars, jazz hands, digging volleyballs, competitive cheerleading, running a half-marathon, or finally giving “heavy lifting” a chance (thanks, Jamie), for years, I guess I’ve always just wanted to be fit. As I grew beyond the double-dutch days and organized sports teams, I knew I had to find a way to keep it up before my metabolism caught up to me. Through the highs of crossing the finish line of 13.1, or the lows of binging, checking the scale and yo-yo dieting, I eventually decided to try this “CrossFit.” It happened to be perfect timing that CF 88 was opening in October 2013, when I got bored of jumping to the beat of the Insanity DVD for two months; I knew I had to sign up.
I still remember the first day I came in, not having a single clue how to use the rowing machine. It must have taken me 5 minutes to row 500 meters. Nonetheless, I finished the baseline workout, and I smiled for my first day picture, not having a clue what I just got myself into. Not to mention, did I ever expect to get myself into this mess with a long-time, grade school friend (Elise… I miss her!). Since then, some might say we’re a little bit “enthusiastic” about CrossFit...
A year later, now I can finally row a mediocre 500 meters and Rx’ing more WODs, but more importantly, I’ve gained so many more friendships because of the daily WODs and occasional social gatherings. Plus, competing in the Winter and Summer Galt Games with Elise, Keith L., Eric and Dawid was probably some of the most fun I’ve had in organized athletics in several years.
Thinking back, I must admit, there were quite a few times I’ve thought about quitting for plenty of reasons, but it was never because I got “tired” of it. The programming that Coach Scott has implemented at the box is always challenging me, and making me realize that I still have so much more room for improvement in my physical skills and fitness. And, it’s not just in a physical sense; I love that. It wasn’t until Coach Piotr spoke with me about helping out for a few classes, that a sort of new, evolved vision for the sport started to form for me. Although hesitant at first, I knew I couldn’t turn it down. The possibility of being a coach to other athletes meant that I would continue to pursue what I’m most passionate about: helping people become better versions of themselves. An added bonus was that I would push myself even further to also improve myself as an athlete and as a person. Leading by example is important, but compassion is key (you know, not that we ever suffer in CrossFit!).
In my full-time job, I actually teach 6th grade Language Arts and Social Studies (believe it or not, yes, I am older than I look!) Though I thought that this extra commitment as a trainer would be near impossible, it’s actually not too different from my job as a teacher. Not only does it provide a nice mental break from the stressors of work, but I also continue my day with the two things I love to do: teach others and work out. Honestly, I am forever grateful each day for this window of opportunity that the coaches have opened up for me. And I’m also humbled that the athletes at the box have welcomed me with ease to be one of their coaches. Just like I always am with my younger students, I am always learning something new every day, from those I teach. At the box, I learn more about CrossFit, I learn about our members as unique individuals, and I am also reflecting more about myself as a teacher and trainer. I’m so glad I found CrossFit 88."
Coach Keith:
"Hello, my name is Keith Garcia and I’m 23 years old. Outside of Crossfit, I'm currently in school going for a major in Biology or Chemistry, and afterwards pursuing a career as Physician's Assistant. I have a small background in medicine with EMT-B and CPR certifications, and also including 3 years experience of Army medicine. Prior to Crossfit, I've had the just above average physical fitness with playing sports since childhood and military training. My very first Crossfit experience was on 8 Feb. 2012. The very first WOD I did was the "Carse" Hero WOD. A dear friend suggested we do it in honor of Carse since he was one our battle buddies we lost in Afghanistan that day. The feeling of completing a gruesome workout in honor of our friend was one of the best rewarding experiences I've had and I knew I found something special. Afterwards, I researched some of the movements and started doing Crossfit workouts on my own. I resigned from the military, went back home, and found my new home Crossfit 88. I love what Crossfit has done to me and also hearing everyone’s experience at our gym with their Crossfit journey. Crossfit to me is a kind-hearted community and I found some of the best down to earth people here. I look forward to our training at Crossfit 88, the good times we’ll have, and seeing everyone’s hard work pay off."
