Upper East Side

Nick is such a positive presence in the gym. He always comes in with a smile, even at 5:30 a.m. — no small task. He built a strong foundation with several months of 360 before adding in CrossFit, and he continues to improve and absorb cues that have made him a better athlete. Nick, a chiropractor, regularly passes knowledge of the body to his fellow members and our staff. Thanks for keeping EVF healthy!

— Coach Jenna

How/when did you get involved in CrossFit?
I joined 4 years ago after my wife told me about the gym and CrossFit. I wrestled in high school and always appreciated how it made me accountable for my own success and failures during practice and competition. Since that time, I have been searching for something that gave me a great workout combined with that same feeling of personal accomplishment. CrossFit is the perfect outlet.

Do you remember your first workout? How was it?
My first workout was a 360 class with Coach Matt. He took me under his wing and made me feel like a part of the EVF family as soon as I walked down the stairs. That workout kicked my butt and was so much fun. After that I was hooked.

What were your goals when you first started? How have they changed?
When I first started, my main goal was to get back into shape and perform as many of the WODs Rx as possible. As I became more experienced in CrossFit, my goals changed to improving my technique and form, while continuing to lift heavier weights without injury. I realized the importance of proper rest, diet and accessory work to prevent overuse injuries.

How have you grown in that time — health, body, mind, etc.?
During the past 4 years at EVF, I have learned a lot about myself. Since joining the gym, much has changed. I now have two kids and have started my own chiropractic practice. I have learned patience with my workouts and with my day-to-day life. I now look at my health, fitness and career as more of a slow-cooked recipe, slowly adding in ingredients and techniques until all the flavors meld together.

What do you enjoy most about CrossFit?
Definitely the people. The EVF community is the best at making each workout feel like you’re in it together as a team. I have made some great friends who are always there to give encouragement and a laugh, inside and outside of the gym.

Favorite lift and WOD?
My favorite lift is the clean and jerk. Favorite workout is DT.

What about your least favorite?
Least favorite is Annie.

What motivates you?
My motivation comes from my fellow EVF members and coaches who continue to challenge me to set new PRs and master my technique and form. I am also motivated by my family knowing that what I do and how I do it sets an example for them. And last but not least, my patients. It’s so important to lead by example. If I want them to move more and live healthier lifestyles I have to hold myself to those same standards.

Do you have any advice for new members?
Enjoy the process of CrossFit. Certain movements and lifts come naturally and others not so much. Be a learn-it-all and not a know-it-all, and take the time to enjoy the challenge.

What do you hope to achieve in the coming year?
To be able to consistently do double unders and finally hit my target weight on the back squat.