Meet our first Athlete of the Month (AOTM) Dan Hammer! Dan was voted “Most Likely to Join a CrossFit Gym” in high school based solely on his incredibly appropriate name (we just made that up).

We asked Dan 5 questions and he answered in his own words. If you have not met Dan, now you know how to break the ice next time you see him (inside or outside the gym)!

Q: What got you interested in CrossFit?

A few months before joining a friend convinced me to do an obstacle race with him.  I huffed and puffed and remembered, with a bit of shame as I walked most of the 4 mile course, how fit I had been as an athlete in school.  The realization of how far I’d fallen ate at me.  I didn’t really know anything about CrossFit when I walked in the door but 10 years of inactivity had my health in a downward spiral and I was ready to make a change.

Q: Do you have a favorite workout or movement? Least favorite?

I love Cindy and Mary!  Thrusters are gross.

Q: What’s your favorite hobby, pastime or interest outside of work (other than CrossFit)?

I design, build, and fight Battlebots.

Q: Favorite music to work out to? Favorite music to relax to?  OR Favorite Atlanta Restaurant?

Good, heavy, and loud; Slipknot tunes help me kick out the reps.  I enjoy relaxing to Tchaikovsky.

Q: Any advice for someone considering trying CrossFit for the first time?

Be patient!  Big gains don’t come overnight, but with determination, persistence, and a focus on reinforcing good form over intensity they do come.