Each month we spotlight a different CrossFit 1710 athlete who stands out and shows just how awesome they are. What is it that makes up an Athlete of the Month? It may not be the person that finishes the fastest, Rx’s every WOD, or gets a PR every time they walk in the gym. Although we love and celebrate when those things happen, the Athlete of the Month is made up of much more than physical ability. This person shows up, gives their best every time, and then gives a little more. They are hungry to learn and always ready to do the work. They support their fellow athletes and encourage them to reach their goals. This athlete embodies what we believe the CrossFit 1710 Community should be about.
Our October 2024 Athlete of The Month is Claudio Rojas! Claudio joined the CrossFit 1710 team in June 2023. Claudio works hard for his family, commuting to Houston early each morning and returning home later in the evening. Even though this means he cannot attend our coach-led classes as often as he would like, Claudio gets the daily workouts accomplished at home after work. He is an excellent example of “where there’s a will, there’s a way.” Claudio utilizes our Home Workout options and stays accountable by sharing his progress with our athletes within our team group chat. Claudio’s consistency with fitness and nutrition is noticeable when he can get into the gym. Our coaches have seen Claudio earn strength gains with lifting and improved times with benchmark WODs. Claudio- we are proud of your persistence, dedication, and commitment to improving your whole health.
Get to know Claudio better in his interview below.
1. TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF.
Hi, my name is Claudio Rojas Sr. I am 56 years old, married to my wife Estella with two kids, Claudio Jr and Analicia. I was born in Acapulco, Mexico but consider Wharton, Tx to be my hometown as I have been living here more than 30 years old. I am a CNC III Machinist for Logisnext Mitsubishi out of Houston, Texas.
2. WHAT MADE YOU START CROSSFIT?
My CrossFit journey started with my daughter, Analicia, inviting me to try a free trial week. I thought with my work schedule I would not be able to make it and joining CrossFit would be hard for me to since I leave town around 4am and get back later around 6pm. After my trial week ended, I dropped in when I could. Now I am more consistent with workouts. If I can’t make it to one of the classes, I get the workout done when I get home.
3. WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED SINCE JOINING CROSSFIT 1710?
The main lesson I have learned from joining CrossFit 1710 is no matter what age group, skill set, or physical strength you are in there is always a workout to improve your lifestyle, physical health, mental health, and body composition. I have also learned that being “perfect” in performing workouts or shape is not the key, being consistent is the key to being better.
4. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT CROSSFIT 1710?
The thing I enjoy about CrossFit 1710 is the versatility of workouts which can include cardio, gymnastics, or weights. I like waking up knowing the workout is going to be different every day. I especially enjoy that CrossFit 1710 offers an at home version for each workout every day. This has been helpful for me to be able to have a plan working out in my home gym on the days I am not able to make the classes. It makes me feel I am still a part of the gym accomplishing workouts even though I may not always be able to physically make it to the gym every day. The coaches at this gym always encourage me, along with my CrossFit family members.
5. WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST CROSSFIT MOMENT?
My proudest moments of CrossFit have been getting to participate in The 2024 CrossFit Open and MURPH with my whole family. Being a part of a gym getting to workout with my wife Estella, son CJ, and daughter Analicia was a moment I will not forget.
6. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVEMENT/LIFT?
My two favorite movements so far have been thrusters and rowing.
7. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE MOVEMENT/LIFT?
My least favorite movement is burpees.
8. WHAT IMPACT HAS CROSSFIT HAD ON YOUR LIFE IN & OUT OF THE GYM?
CrossFit has had a positive impact on my life. It has shown me how to learn to use my mind and body to connect as one to improve my health, both physically and mentally. One lesson that has translated into my personal life is to celebrate the small steps because small steps progress into a mile of gains. I’ve learned to not compare myself or strive to be better than others but strive to be my best self.
9. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS AND HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO REACHING THEM?
My current goal in CrossFit is to be able to RX workouts and get better at each movement to be able to master them. I hope to be the best version of myself and inspire others, the same way my CrossFit family has inspired me.
10. WHEN YOU’RE NOT CROSSFITTING WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO?
Outside of the gym I like spending quality time with my family. I enjoy the days I get to cook for my family and sitting back watching movies and sports.
11. WHAT IS THE ONE TIP YOU’D GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS THINKING ABOUT STARTING CROSSFIT OR JUST STARTED?
I would tell someone to come try it out. There is something valuable here for everyone to a healthier life. You will get to learn different movements to your capability, nutrition, and be apart of family who will encourage you along your journey every step of the way!
12. WHAT IS YOUR DIET LIKE? HOW HAS IT CHANGED SINCE STARTING CROSSFIT?
I am currently not on a diet, but since joining I have incorporated more vegetables and fruits with my meals.
13. RESULTS? TELL US ABOUT YOUR RESULTS!
Since starting CrossFit I have lost 15lbs and went down two sizes. I definitely feel stronger mentally and physically. CrossFit WILL help you get to a healthier life.
FREEWRITE-
My CrossFit journey has been a slow steady process, but I've seen results on my health, mind, and body for the last 4 months. I've been more consistent on my workouts with the home workout program when I can't make it to CrossFit class. I now see myself stronger on weights and strength to do better on my movements. I will continue to work on my goals to RX my workouts and maybe one day participate in CrossFit competitions. Thank you to the coaches and members of this gym for always encouraging me! All I can say is that this OLD LION IS BACK!! Philippians 4:13 I can do all this through Christ who gives me strength.
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