HERE’S WHY YOU SHOULD TRUST THE PROCESS

If you’ve ever talked to Aaron Cullen you’d know he an incredibly nice and humble guy but if you’ve ever tried to chase him in a workout, you’d probably regret it. But he wasn’t always as fit as he is today.

Starting CrossFit can come with a range of misconceptions that can often deter people from giving it a try. One of the most common misconceptions is that CrossFit is only suitable for elite athletes or fitness fanatics. In reality, CrossFit is designed to be scalable and accessible to individuals of all fitness levels.

But if you ask Aaron he’d tell you that’s far from the truth. When starting to take classes in 2019, he was doing banded pull-ups or performing ring rows as a scale to movements like muscle ups and pull ups. Even though these movements are not what other more experienced members might be doing, they’re still the key stepping stone to progressing in your abilities. Plus you still get a great workout from doing them!

Fast forward to today, and Aaron effortlessly executes butterfly pull-ups, bar muscle-ups, and even ring muscle-ups. Aaron’s commitment to showing up to class and putting in a little effort outside of class, has not only made him a master of bodyweight movements, but his strength gains are simply a testament to the fact that CrossFit works.

CrossFit was Aaron’s first exposure to Olympic weightlifting. One common misconception about doing Olympic barbell movements in CrossFit classes is that they are only meant for advanced athletes. Some individuals believe that these complex lifts, such as the snatch and clean and jerk, are too difficult or dangerous for beginners or those new to fitness. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. In CrossFit, Olympic barbell movements are taught and scaled to accommodate athletes of all levels. Proper technique, safety protocols, and gradual progression are emphasized to ensure each athlete's success and development.

For example, from never having attempted Olympic barbell movements, to now having a power snatch at an impressive 185 pounds, you can ask Aaron about what he thinks about doing Olympic barbell movements in classes.

Despite these incredible achievements, Aaron still enjoys a well-deserved cheat meal every now and then. His go-to indulgence is a mouthwatering steak burrito from the renowned La Poblanita Taco Truck. Aaron’s journey at CrossFit Clintonville is a testament to the transformative power of hard work, perseverance, and the occasional delicious indulgence.

We’re grateful for all our members and hope to see that everyone get’s to experience the transformative power of CrossFit!