Paul Lanahan

Favorite WOD:  Long workouts with power cleans

Least Favorite WOD:  Fran

Tell us about your sports & fitness background: Growing up I played soccer and lacrosse, and in High School I participated in Cross Country, Track, Lacrosse, and Golf.

How did you first get exposed to CrossFit? Take us back to your first WOD... what was it, and how did it feel?  

My parents were members at CFKSQ, and I got into it through them. My first WOD was one with air squats and pull ups. I remember feeling extremely out of shape.

What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health and fitness since starting CF (before/after)?  

Coming from being a cross country and track runner, I was really thin and did not have any experience lifting weights. After starting CrossFit, I gained over 45 pounds and have greatly improved my strength. My overall fitness level has drastically improved. 

What sort of changes in your life have you experienced out of taking on something like CrossFit that were totally unexpected?  

The biggest change that I have experienced in my life since starting CrossFit is a big impact on my mental health and my motivation to succeed. After taking on a challenging workout in the morning, it paved the way for the rest of my day and helped me to focus on work/school throughout the day.

Please share with us any favorite CrossFit / CFKSQ moments: 

My favorite CFKSQ moment was Murph 2020, which was when the COVID pandemic began and forced members to complete the workout at home. Right before we started the workout, Everett showed up at our house with water and chalk for “chalk water bathroom”. 

Any advice for people just getting started? 

Challenge yourself everyday, but don’t overdo it. As my father says when I put too much weight on the bar “live to CrossFit another day, you’re going to hurt yourself”. Be patient with your results and communicate with the coaches, and the results will follow. 

What are your hobbies, interests and/or talents outside of CrossFit?  

Outside of CrossFit, I enjoy hiking with my dog and my family, as well as traveling and experiencing different places around the world. I spend a lot of time brewing gluten-free beer, and enjoying my mother’s fantastic cooking.