Paul Gouge

Pace yourself, be coachable, focus on technique (I still go to the PVC pipe when my squat snatch feels off), and talk with the other athletes. Progress will come if you let it.

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Least Favorite WOD:  Anything involving running laps around the building 

Tell us about your sports & fitness background: High School and Legion baseball as a catcher. Became a Hooker for 4 years in college (no no, not that kind…it’s a position in Rugby) and loved it! Have always enjoyed being in a gym, but not running. 

How did you first get exposed to CrossFit? Take us back to your first WOD… what was it, and how did it feel? COVID basement workouts sucked, so I explored area gyms when restrictions were lifted. CrossFit checked a LOT of boxes for me and I remembered Everett from my days at the Y. Coach Lauren was an amazing intro coach. I don’t remember the first WOD, but it was a benchmark one and I remembered the other athletes being very encouraging. 

What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health and fitness since starting CF (before/ after)? Clothes fit better (though body weight hasn’t dropped much), definitely stronger and more core stability, more stamina on the mountain bike climbs. Before I was battling with GERD (stress, weight, bad eating habits) but that’s gone now. Left shoulder chronic pain has reduced significantly. 

What sort of changes in your life have you experienced out of taking on something like CrossFit that were totally unexpected?  I’ve found a community of like minded people when I travel for work. I’m more focused on eating well and in tune with how my body reacts to certain foods. My hips and shoulder mobility/stability has greatly improved (thanks squat snatches!). 

Please share with us any favorite CrossFit / CFKSQ moments: When I travel, I always look forward to visiting local boxes, and texting pics of workouts and setups to Everett (for my own accountability too). The best part though is seeing how great the coaching team is at CFKSQ. I truly haven’t found another that is as focused on warming up, active coaching, and simple things like coach jerseys so you know who they are.