Member Spotlight — Jason Heddings

Tell us a little about yourself and what got you on the path to CrossFit and Nutrition…

I was born in Japan, I have an English mother, and I've lived in many places. I went to Radford University and now I work for ESPN. This September I turn 47! Currently I live in Folly Beach with my better half, Jamie. CHS/Folly is the greatest place I have lived!

I have friends & family that were living the CrossFit Life. I needed something new. CFJI was close, so I jumped in. That was in 2017 and I’m still here. The May Challenge worked for me. I feel 15 years younger. I never thought it would be possible to be this trim & fit again, especially after my heel injury in 2014.

What made you start in the first place?

I wanted something different than a regular gym and I had seen amazing results from friends & family. I also needed a push from a structured environment.

What keeps you coming back each day?

Results are always a major motivation. I would never make myself do this crazy stuff on my own. CrossFit is intense! I realized all the BS I was doing at the Globo Gym was bollocks.

CFJI is an awesome place to train. It has a beach vibe, which is rare. I have met so many great people. It's not easy making friends in a new place in your 40's outside of the bar scene, so it's nice to be around people that don’t just want to party.

The coaches are amazing! They all push you in different ways. Kyle is the man! Jenna is inspiring! Anthony, Hope and Chase motivate with positive reinforcement!

I am very fortunate to live near CFJI.

How has your lifestyle changed since starting at CFJI?

So many ways. Obviously I'm in better shape, but I'm also a better surfer, more positive & a more confident individual. I eat different now, which has completely changed my life.

If you had to do 100 reps of one movement (not running), what would it be?

Air Squats

What do you like most about your workout crew?

I go to the noon class 90% of the time. Most are transplants with at least 5 having DMV connections. I've made a lot of new friends. I get to workout with great people and great athletes. Classes are intense, but there is plenty of time to joke and talk.

Every athlete at CFJI inspires me. I respect everyone for walking through the door. CrossFit is tough!

What are 1-2 of your goals for 2019? Have you accomplished any of these yet?

I felt I was spinning my wheels until the May Life Challenge.

It taught me that nutrition is essential. I have continued the Paleo life.

Prior: 190 LBS / 27% BF

Current: 168 LBS / 19% BF

Goal: 165 LBS / 15% BF

I also need to step up my overhead game, it is a disaster!

Favorite Lift?

Bench Press & Low Bar Back Squat

Least favorite movement?

Dumbbell Thrusters & Overhead Squats

Least Favorite Gymnastic Movement?

I feel like a “CrossFit Kook” for pretty much all Gymnastics. Seriously, all of it humbles me. Rope Climbs scare me most because I fear re-injuring my heel (fractured in past).

Hometown?

Lived in 4 countries and 10+ places in the USA, but spent high school and young 20's in the DMV.

Favorite Charleston Restaurant?

Dine in: Tavern & Table

Truck: Dough Boyz Pizza

Take out: Crosby’s Shrimp

If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?

A lead singer/guitarist in a reggae ska punk band

What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13?

Enjoy living overseas. You may never have the opportunity again.

If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?

Hayden & Jacob from my favorite band Tunnel Vision.