Each month we will feature an athlete that embraces the difficult feat of changing their lives for the better. We all come with our own set of challenges — whether it is work, family, or just a seemingly endless ‘to do’ list. Getting fit, making yourself a priority and finding that balance is hard work. This time we shine a light on an incredible athlete. One that is so humble, someone who has made significant gains on so many levels and is overall just a great guy. He’s there early (except PR days when he hits the evening classes!), works hard and is so consistent. For all of these reasons we are proud to announce Maxx Townsend as our ATHLETE OF THE MONTH!
ATHLETE OF THE MONTH:
MAXX TOWNSEND
Tell us a little bit about yourself…
Let’s see. I grew up in Edgewood, Md (Harford County) and played sports my entire life. I starting lifting weights going into high school (where I developed my horrible form lol) for football. I went on to play college football at Wesley College in Dover, DE. Throughout college, my training and weight drastically changed due to two major knee injuries (torn meniscus, MCL twice and ACL once- all in the same knee). With all that, rehabbing and going into my senior year, I was in the best shape of my life ( around 255-260 pounds). Fast forward to about a two years ago, I tore the same ACL and meniscus again, got married, hungry, lazy, and of course, fat. After that surgery I was told by my doctor that if I injured my knee again, I would need a knee replacement. Anything regarding my fitness went out the window after that. A year later I started to realize that there aren’t many 60+ year old, 323 pound people on this earth so I started lifting weights again to lose some weight. Another year passed and I didn’t see the results I wanted. I needed an environment that brought me back to the competitiveness and comradery that I loved. That’s how I ended up at the Cove.
How has CrossFit affected life outside of the gym?
My overall fitness is much better now. I’m not just the “strong” guy who could pick things up before. Also, a little while ago I started this thing during our cool down period called stretching. It really works – I’m much more flexible then I was months ago and it shows outside of the gym.
What has changed since starting CrossFit?
I feel great. My energy levels and overall attitude are much higher. Almost all of my knee pain is gone, which actually shocks me (when I was just lifting a year ago my knee hurt daily). I’ve also dropped a good amount of weight since starting. After whole30 I was down to 284lbs. I’m sure I’ve gained some back- but I’m getting back on track.
What do you enjoy most about The Cove?
These aren’t in any particular order but, we train at a top notch facility. I’m not sure how many people are aware of this, but the space, equipment, and technology at the Cove are second to none. I’ve only been to one other crossfit gym and I walked in the front door, tripped over the FIVE kettle bells they had and fell out the back door. Seriously, this place is top notch. The coaches at the Cove are amazing also. I never knew how many flaws I had in my technique until I started here and they have helped me correct them (or at least try to). But not only do they care about your technique, they are great motivators, teachers and all around great people. It’s nice to talk to people who run a business who care more about you then the dollars they earn from you.
And not to forget the rest of us – the Cove community is great. The support that everyone gives each other is refreshing. Cheering, running extra laps, and the high fives make the workouts that much better. Theres a good feeling knowing the entire gym did the same workout and pushed just as hard as you did.
What is your favorite movement?
Shocker here haha. Squats. Nothing better then throwing a bar across your shoulders and standing up. I think I’m the only person who enjoys when Coach Chris plays that Sally song for a warm up.
And your LEAST favorite movement?
About two months ago this would be burpees. I hated them and that attitude would effect my workout when they were involved. Since then I told myself I wouldn’t hate anymore movements, and I would do them as best as I could. But with saying all that, I’m not a fan of running anything over 400m lol.
Any advice for people who are just getting started at The Cove?
Being a larger human, I was hesitant to give crossfit a try. Now I embrace being a big guy finishing these brutal workouts. It doesn’t matter what size, age, or fitness level you are, just come ready to work with a positive attitude and the rest will fall in place. Oh yeah- NO CHERRY PICKING. I was guilty. You’re only hurting yourself.
PARTNER WOD
With a 30 minute Running Clock
From minute 1-10
1 Mile Relay
(one partner runs 400 M the other partner runs 400 M until you reach 1600 M as a team)
Max Power Clean with remaining time
From minutes 10-20
1 Mile Relay (same way as above)
Max KB Swings (with remaining time)
From Minutes 20-30
1200M Relay (One partner runs 200 M then switch until you reach 1200M)