Each month, we will profile a Grand Trunk CrossFit member who has seen incredible results since joining our “box”.
It is our hope, that by showing you what can be accomplished through regular workouts and a commitment to fitness, you will be encouraged to take the leap and come in for a workout.
This month, we’re putting the spotlight on the husband & wife duo, Dan & Maria Varitek. They have been members since 2017.
When did you join Grand Trunk, and why?
Dan: June of 2017. Simple, my wife nagged me to do it and said I’d like it. She was right (as usual).
Maria: I was working on a trauma surgical ICU in downtown Detroit and I would leave work feeling physically exhausted. I was totally out of shape and taking care of incapacitated patients was becoming more difficult. I also worked on a unit where patients would become physically aggressive and I knew if I didn’t get stronger I would get hurt.
What do you enjoy most about GTCF and CrossFit?
Dan: I like the family mentality. Everyone is supportive and do what they can’t to help you improve. Plus there is nothing wrong with a little healthy competition.
Maria: Couldn’t come across a better group of people. The members and coaches are all super helpful. Another perk, I don’t have to plan my own workout.
What is your favorite movement?
Dan: I love me some wall balls.
Maria: Overhead squat. Sorry, guys. J
What is a CrossFit goal you have achieved that you are most proud of?
Dan: Nothing specific. I just like to see that I have made progress and continue to have improvements in everything we do. It makes me feel good to see my progress in every WOD.
Maria: I have two things: pull-ups and rope climbs. I was NEVER able to do a pull-up or rope climb as a kid and now I can!
What is a current goal you are working on and hope to accomplish?
Dan: Increasing my aerobic endurance.
Maria: I have many, but probably chest-to-bar.
What advice would you give a new member or someone who is thinking about trying CrossFit?
Dan: Don’t think. Just do it. I guarantee you will have a positive experience.
Maria: Yes, it’s hard, but it’s hard for everyone in the box. Don’t be afraid. No one is judging you because we are all pushing our bodies as hard as we can (and trying not to die during the workout.) We have no time to stop and critique you.
How has CrossFit impacted your life outside of the gym?
Dan: Besides being sore all of the time? I feel really good. I had back problems in the past and have not had any issues since starting.
Maria: I have more energy for my kids and everyday life. I don’t leave work feeling like I got hit by a bus.
What is a fun fact that people might not know about you?
Dan: I am one of five Dan Variteks…all related.
Maria: Dan answered this for me: “You have fingerlike toes.” I love him, guys. He is so romantic.
If you could create your own WOD, what would it be?
Dan: Something fun…shoulder-to-overhead, wall balls, bike, walking lunges, and something nasty, like burpees.
Maria: Nothing timed. Lots of variety in the movements and low rep counts. (Pull-ups, farm carry, box jumps, etc.)
Fill in the blank: I CrossFIt (because/so I can):
Dan: Eat tacos, pizza and drink beer. But on a serious note, so I can be a healthier husband and father to my family.
Maria: When I started CrossFit I loved it, but always said, “I will never do…pull-ups, rope climb, double-unders, etc.” I have proved myself wrong time and time again. Even when I am being my own worst enemy, I have made progress and done things I never thought I could!
If you’d like to schedule a free, no-sweat intro, sign up today!