On Saturday, July 12 PJ walked into the doors at CF13S to try a free Saturday class. After a “God bless you”, a few “Have mercy on me”s and a long rest laying face down on the floor after the workout was over Julie wasn’t sure if PJ was hooked or never coming back. The next morning we left for Appalachia with the Assumption Parish youth group, and during mass PJ was nowhere to be found. Looking around the church, Julie said to me, “I don’t see PJ. Do you think I killed him?!” Far from it. Sore, yes, but PJ was off to the races at that point. He worked out with us every day in West Virginia and then joined for an entire year as soon as we got home. And he hasn’t looked back since.
PJ is our priest at Assumption Parish on Maple Ave and despite an incredibly busy schedule is one of the most consistent members we have. With a regularly fluctuating schedule, PJ plugs in a class whenever he can during the day, but never uses his schedule as a reason not to come in and work up a sweat. Known as a cardio machine at CF13S, and someone who frequently runs out the door at the end of the workout, PJ has become a friendly face in class that our community loves having around, telling jokes with and getting smoked by in any mile run.
PJ has progressed with every lift, movement and skill he has tried, but in a very controlled fashion. He knows his limits, and if you dare try to push him beyond those you will hear his now-infamous catchphrase … “Next time.”
- Member since: July 2014
- What are you most proud of during your time at CF13S? My running and the progress I have made with my back squat.
- What is your favorite barbell lift? Thruster
- What is something most of our the members do not know about you? I joined CF13S after being inspired by Julie, Brian and Chris K in West Virginia during our Habitat For Humanity mission trip!
- If you were stranded on an island, what one piece of exercise equipment would you have with you? Kettlebells!
- What is the biggest change you have seen in yourself since joining CF13S? I am SFH! … stronger, faster, and healthier!
- If you could challenge one member of the gym to a race, who would it be? Julie V!
- How many members have you personally recruited to join the gym? I think 8.
- What is a goal you have set for yourself that you are still working on? Run 1 mile in 5:15 like Coach Jenna and handstand push-ups!
- Any advice for people just getting started? Stay humble, do not hurt yourself by lifting too much weight and compromising form. Enjoy CrossFit and enjoy being stronger, faster and healthier!
1 Comment.
This is awesome! PJ was the first person I met at 13 Stars- the perfect ambassador!