January Member Spotlight: Matt Read

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

I got into lifting weights in college, and kept it up ever since, but it was really just globo gym type lifting with some core, and obviously no legs. Occasionally I’d do some cardio, but not too much, because I was trying to put on weight…bro. I was at an Air Force training course with one of my good friends who did CrossFit, and he was going to a class at the local place and asked if I wanted to give it a try. Strength-wise, I was about even with him, so I just did the same weight he did. I’ve never felt so terrible for such a prolonged period of time as I did that day. Luckily he drove. I remember sitting in the passenger seat on the ride back to base with my eyes closed praying he would stop talking to me so I could focus all of my energy on not hurling. I think that opened my eyes to a whole other level of fitness that I wasn’t familiar with.

Back in Charleston, they had a noon CrossFit class in the gym on base, and when we weren’t flying, we had a group of 4 of us that would go…it was that camaraderie that I really got hooked on.

What keeps you coming back each day?

Definitely the challenge. There are just so many aspects, there’s always something to work on. The camaraderie also is something that I didn’t expect to enjoy, but that plays a big part. I used to work out by myself, and actually didn’t like working out with other people, but I find now that when I try and do a CrossFit workout by myself, it’s way more challenging to give it everything.

What is your favorite at-home exercise to do?

I don’t really know, push-ups maybe?

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

Yeah, push-ups I think. Or dog pets.

What are 1-2 of your goals for 2022? Have you accomplished any of these?

Well, we’re 4 days in, and I’ve accomplished everything I set out to do. So, I’d like to think I’m really good at doing goals.

But, I think fitness-wise, I need to work on my flexibility (still). Life-wise, I need to work on patience (still).

Favorite Lift?

I’m clearly a little guy, so gymnastics movements are more my forte - not oly lifts. I can string together pull-ups pretty well so I like seeing those in workouts. But when you can start stringing together successive ring muscle-ups, that feels pretty good.

Least favorite Crossfit movement?

Snatch. Because I’m not good at it, so it makes me angry. Also, turns out that wall walks are pretty crushing. Who knew.

Hometown?

Brentwood, TN

Favorite Charleston Restaurant?

Halls. No question. Lots of good memories at SNOB though - and great food.

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

Easy. Race car driver.

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

Quit trying to be popular. Be yourself, you’ll be so much happier.

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

That’s tough. I think maybe my dad’s dad. He died when my dad was a kid. I really admire my dad, and I’d like to see if any of his qualities came from his dad.

One thing about me people would be surprised to know?

I’m a bird nerd.

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

Definitely no weird vegetable chili or anything like that. Something on the grill I think. Either burgers or a pork butt. Haha. Butt.

Give us a “Question of the Day” to use in class.

Do you bathe every day or no?