April 2023 Athlete of the Month: Carl Knight
We have so much appreciation for our community, and love to highlight one athlete each month that exemplifies hard work and commitment. Meet Carl Knight! Sadly this is Carl’s last month with us as he will be moving with his husband to Chicago. As a core member of the afternoon crew, Carl has always shown up, worked hard, and encouraged other members. Not only do we appreciate him for bringing the staff some of his fine baked goods, but also for showing all of us that age is just a number! Don’t forget to give him a high five and a farewell hug next time you see him at the gym! Let’s dive into his journey at Terminus a little further:
Q: How long have you been going to Terminus? What changes have you seen in yourself (physically or mentally) since joining?
I joined in November of 2020. I’ve definitely gained overall strength. When I started, my CrossFit total max was back squat 245LB, shoulder press 105 and deadlift285LB (635) and now it’s 280LB, 115LB, 330LB (725)! I’m proud of that progress.
Q: How has your journey at Terminus helped you outside the gym?
The culture and community helps me keep my perspective broad! I’m not afraid to try new activities and seek new adventures, physical and mental! My first response to a new challenge is “why not?” I can pick up a heavy weight, do dozens of pull ups, do hundreds of double unders, suffer through burpees, surely I can do this!
Q: Who inspires you at the gym, and how do they inspire you?
My WOD squad, Lauren Tilson and Diana Wong – these women are so strong and they inspire me every day! Also, it’s good to have a small crew to complain about the horrors that Ben has concocted before we do it anyway. All the 6pm peeps who come out every day and put in the work Ro, Ruslan, Sam, Sam, – we all encourage each other and cheer each other on, to the last of us at each WOD
Q: How would you describe what it’s like to be a part of Terminus?
It’s a collaborative, cooperative group, working to a common goal – better fitness and health, NO MATTER WHERE each individual is on that journey. I get great joy out of the encouragement and coaching we all give each other.
Also, the coaches themselves are pretty swell. I’m looking at you, Patrick and Madison and Ryan!
Q: Tell us about your first day of class at Terminus.
Back squats! Terminus, you had me at hello! I remember Trent (who was coaching at the time) watching me intently, but giving me enough space to understand my level of competency and not just assuming skill (or lack thereof).
Q: What is something that we may not know about you?
I can crochet a lovely scarf.
Q: What are your top 3 memories or proudest moments in CrossFit?
*This year was my 9th Open!
*The first time I cleaned over 145LB – I was stuck at that number for SO LONG!
*Getting my double unders strung together – if you don’t have them today, my advice is just keep trying. If I can get them, you can too.
Q: Moving forward, do you have any short term or long term goals in the gym?
To keep working hard and cherish every moment until the last day. Who knows, maybe I’ll get another PR between now and May 10th!
