Simply put, Chad Welch is a go-getter.
A member for a little over a year, Chad is relentless about CrossFit-ing five days a week. On top of rigorous hours in the gym, he’s even taken up spinning and has competed in several races with his brother, Chris. There may not be a more passionate person in the gym, either. Just take a look around. Those fans on the wall, the axle bar, rainbow pipes, the wall-ball target and even the cool platform we borrowed from Valor? Be sure to thank Chad for all of it.
If there’s someone that deserves to cement his legacy in CrossFit ABF’s Member of the Month pillar, it’s Chad Welch. Get to know June’s MOM with this quick interview!
What made you decide to try CrossFit?
My brother. He started one month before me. He convinced me to come in and give it a go.
Most people hate CrossFit for the first week or so as they are getting used to new terminology and a new way of working out. Did you ever go through that? What was your “darkest” CrossFit day that made you almost quit?
My first week at CrossFit ABF was eye-opening and very challenging. The challenge was physical and mental, because I just couldn’t believe how much I let myself go over the past few years. Fortunately, I didn’t find any “dark” days, because I knew that hard work was the only way to get back to where I wanted to be. It’s not magic. You need to do the work to see the results!
After a difficult day, what made you decide to come back?
I would try to focus on sticking to the process. It doesn’t matter how difficult the workouts are. I always feel better once I complete them.
How do you view CrossFit now? Is it just a workout? Or, is it something more for you?
CrossFit has made a very positive impact on me. In the beginning, I viewed it as a way to get back in shape. Now, it’s something I see myself doing for a long time. Being around great people and seeing results help make this part of my routine.
Have you noticed your health improve since you started doing CrossFit?
I’ve noticed significant improvements with my health. It’s almost hard to remember how exhausted I would get walking through the woods or climbing stairs.
You’ve made some of the equipment at ABF. Where does that know-how come from? Your Job? Hobbies?
I’ve only done a couple things for ABF, but most of my experience is probably a good mix of hobbies and work. A lot of credit goes to YouTube, too.
You and your brother seem to be fitness-obsessed. How much do you actually exercise?
Our obsession is with the results. I think, the more results we see, the more we want them. Most of my workouts are at ABF, but I do try to fit in a couple spin classes where I can.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone new to CrossFit, what would it be?
Just sign up for your first class and go. If I would have known how much I would enjoy CrossFit, I would’ve done it sooner. CrossFit ABF is a great community of people that love to see others succeed.
About CrossFit ABF Member of the Month
CrossFit ABF’s Member of the Month features, brought to you by our partners at Jenkins Law, Valor Fitness and Massage and Wellness Spa, highlight members of our family that make ABF more than just a gym. To learn more or to see past Members of the Month, CLICK HERE.
