Member Spotlight — Broc Litherland

It's only fitting that the day before Summer we honor a real ray of sunshine for this month's member spotlight. You can't be around this guy and not be happy. He consistently brings a positive attitude and friendly demeanor to the gym, and is always the first to introduce himself to new people and drop-ins to make them feel welcome and at home. Sadly, Broc will be leaving us to move back to Indiana soon, but until then, be sure to congratulate Broc on all of his hard work and dedication.

Q: The news that you were leaving us soon certainly broke the hearts of many that you have captured over the past few months. What got you through the pearly gates of CFJI to begin with?

A: When visiting Charleston I dropped in at a couple boxes obviously not impressed with what they had to offer I needed something that reminded me more of my box at home. I ran out to Folly to see what all the fuss was about there and on my way back I Googled “CrossFit James Island”. When I arrived people were outside running and I could hear loud music, then coach Jenna and Lisa Dempsey gave me a very warm welcome telling me this was the box to be at. I found that feeling of being home and was sold, not to mention Lisa is also from Indiana so that was quite the coincidence.

Q: What are you going to miss most about CFJI? Charleston?

A: Going to miss the 5pm class…the energy, the laughs, acting like a total clown — and no one cares.

Sometimes you can be found busting out reps following a tough WOD. What keeps you motivated to work hard and keep coming back to the gym everyday?

A: CrossFit has changed my life in many ways and also given me so much in the short 18 months I’ve been an athlete, and not too mention I have a pretty addictive personality, so when I started seeing results I wanted more. I love being able to eat whatever I want even though I try to stay on a paleo diet.

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

A: Burpees

What do you like most about your workout crew?

A: The fact that we come to work out, but we act like clowns, talk smack to each other, but also push each other. We have open & honest conversations about what’s happening in each other’s lives…talk about building relationships.

What do you like most about CFJI?

A: I love being able to come to the gym at 630am, 9am, or 5pm…that has been great with the schedule I have. More importantly though, I’ll miss how well the coaches worked with me since I arrived. They had no problem pointing out my flaws, but didn’t hesitate in working to help me improve my techniques to get stronger. I’m extremely grateful for that.

What are 1-2 of your goals for 2017?

A: Goals! Goals! Goals! That’s what you gotta love about CrossFit….there are always goals to set. Off the top of my head two I’d like to tackle ASAP are to be able to do at least five consecutive ring muscle ups and to get my Level 1 certification and become an instructor.

Favorite Lift?

A: Front Squat

Least favorite Lift?

A: Snatch (We don't get along)

Least Favorite Gymnastic Movement?

A: Ring Muscle Up (Because I can't do them... YET!)

Favorite “Girl” WOD? / Hero WOD?

A: Fran/Murph

Hometown?

A: Jasper, Indiana

Favorite Charleston Restaurant?

A: This isn’t exactly easy for me to answer because breakfast is my favorite meal so that would mean Lost Dog Café would win, but I absolutely love BBQ so Home Team wins there. But after being on the beach all day who doesn’t enjoy TACO BOY? This is a loaded question for me. Lol.

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

A: Fighter Pilot-I’d love to burn up the coast in an F-16, fire off a couple guided missiles at targets way out in the water as people are celebrating Independence Day on the beach! (Merica’ F**K YEAH!!!) lol

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

A: Do CrossFit, haha. Do what you love, succeed in school and there will always be time for fun.

What is the best book you have ever read?

A: Unbroken-Powerful story, simply incredible. Do yourself a favor, read it!

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

A: Denzel Washington, the man is a legend.

One thing about me people would be surprised to know?

A: On my birthday in 2014 when I turned 26 I had total hip replacement on my left hip.

If you were to get rid of one state in the U.S., what would it be and why?

A: Kentucky. If you’re from Indiana & grow up watching the Indiana Hoosiers play basketball you also grow up not having much respect for the University of Kentucky.

If the CFJI coaches came to your house for dinner, what would you prepare?

A: Black bean pasta, grilled chicken mixed with pesto, but avocado oil not olive oil, Haha. Steamed veggies seasoned with some slap ya mama. For dessert we’d have the option of Nada Moo ice cream (dairy free & kind of amazing) or dark chocolate and almond or peanut butter…your choice.

A penguin walks through that door right now wearing a sombrero. What does he say and why is he here?

A: Are we south of the border yet? He’s in Mexico on his way back to the south pole.