Upper East Side

We’re so excited to announce our July Upper East Side Athlete of the Month, Geoff Schenker! Geoff has grown into a tremendous athlete during his 2 years here and I’m so proud of his progress. His dedication and hard work are consistently seen as he excels (almost effortlessly!) at his gymnastic skills, while growing stronger and stronger in his Olympic lifts every month.

It’s always fun to watch Geoff fly on his toes-to-bar, then hop off and make body weight power cleans look easy. Geoff is a humble, funny guy who is a great asset to our community and I’m excited to see what the future hold for him here at EVF!

— Coach Nicole

How/when did you get involved in CrossFit? What has motivated you to stick with it?  
I first got involved in CrossFit three years ago after seeing the CrossFit games on ESPN. I remember thinking how interesting the workouts were and that all the athletes were in such great shape. Shortly after I joined my local box and began my journey. I have been motivated to stick with it because of the results and the constant challenges that are thrown at me.

What do you enjoy most about being a member at EVF?  
I really enjoy the relationships I have developed with the coaches and how they know me as an athlete. I enjoy how they push me or give me feedback on my weaknesses.

Do you remember your first workout? Looking back how did it go?  
I don’t remember my first workout, but I am sure it was a struggle. Coming from a workout routine that consisted of mainly cardio, lifting was totally out of my comfort zone.

What were your goals when you first started? How have they changed?
My goals when I first started were to not loath lifting weight (which I did). Now my goals are seeing how much I can lift and pushing myself outside my comfort zone.

How have you grown in that time — health, body, mind, etc.?
CrossFit has helped me grow both physically and mentally. I have gained strength in my body and have become much less concerned with counting calories and more concerned with the quality of the calories I’m eating.

Favorite lift and WOD? 
OHS and Ryan (Five rounds for time: 7 muscle-ups,
21 burpees)

Least favorite movement and workout? 
Snatches and Karen (I hate wallballs!!)

What drives you through the door each day? 
Two things keep me coming through the door: the results and not having to think about what I will be doing that day.

Do you have any advice for new members?  
I would say don’t cheat yourself on any workouts and go after your weaknesses. Don’t let them control you.

What do you hope to achieve in the coming year?
This year I would like to achieve butterfly pull-ups and improve my snatch.