Athlete of the Month: September 2017
Peter Martinez
If you’re looking for a good example of a model CrossFitter, sign up for the same WOD as Peter. A CrossFit 718 member for two years, Peter is consistent with his training. He sets goals and puts in the time – and it shows! He recently recorded a huge back squat PR, and have you seen his unbroken muscle-ups? But beyond all that, Peter plays an active role in our community. He introduced his wife to the sport, and he’s that guy who sticks around to encourage the very last person to finish the WOD.
Read more about September’s athlete of the month!
How did you discover CrossFit?
I had seen a competition on TV but never knew anything about it. I wanted a high-intensity workout that incorporated strength training and Olympic lifting to compliment the cardio training I had undergone.
What kinds of changes have you noticed since starting CrossFit?
I have to buy all new work clothes. My upper body was never my strongest asset. I’m working hard to change that. I am stronger than I have ever been in that regard. I’ve always been very active and want to stay that way as I grow older.
How do you make time for working out?
I blocked out the time Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to get this done. If I can’t make it due to some unforeseen complication, I try Saturday. Typically, once I’m locked in I make it my business to get there on time.
What recent PR are you most proud of?
Back squat: 335 lbs. Previously, I hurt my back getting to 305 lbs a year earlier. I rested and stretched until I was healthy again. When I returned I was determined to hit 320 lbs, and was surprised to get to 335 lbs.
What’s one of your current goals?
I am trying to do all Rx workouts for the year. I am close to it, but there are several workouts I have not mastered, and I still look forward to hitting that goal for next year.
I also want to improve my snatch and cleans since they are my weakest movements. I have difficulty timing them, but I’m determined to make them some of my stronger movements.
You introduced your wife to CrossFit. What’s it like to work out together?
It’s good to know she has a routine she enjoys with good people other than myself. It is also time we can spend working together instead of rushing home afterwards and her going alone somewhere else. It’s also great there are modifications she can do to continue the workouts while we are waiting for our little bundle to arrive.
What do you do when you’re not at the box?
I’m an AV engineer, designing conference spaces for financial services groups during the day. I do live sound, DJ, and audio post-production services for film, TV, and music when I am fortunate enough to get hired. I love to travel, surf, snowboard, and hike. I collect vinyl records and play D&D.