August Athlete of the Month: Bill Butler
Congratulations, Bill! You’re our August Athlete of the Month!!
Bill has been one of our most consistent lunch time members over the past year. His dedication and hard work ethic has paid off, as he has improved across the board in his strength and fitness. If you were to workout and hangout with Bill you’d never guess that he’s 54 years of age, but he is the perfect example of how we all want to live in our 50s; Bill is fitter and healthier than most 20 year olds and has no problem chasing the young bucks at NoCoast on the leader board. We are so honored to have Bill at NoCoast as an ambassador and role model!
Quotes from Bill…
“I started for a couple years in my basement, mostly following the CrossFit website. I didn’t realize I was missing the key elements that makes CF so special. It’s the real time coaching and the camaraderie that you can only get in a great CF box like NoCoast.”
“The physical benefits are pretty clear, but at various times I’ve struggled with anxiety. Doing CF regularly definitely helps me stay in front of that. Coming in at noon most days really helps reenergize both my mental and emotional focus for the second half of the day.”
Age/Weight:
54/185
Athletic/Sports history/highlights:
Baseball through high school. Rec league softball and road biking for many years since.
How long have you been CrossFitting?
About 4 ½ years as part of a gym.
How did you get into CrossFit?
A good friend of mine was into it and told me I should try it out. I started for a couple years in my basement, mostly following the CrossFit website. I didn’t realize I was missing the key elements that makes CF so special. It’s the real time coaching and the camaraderie that you can only get in a great CF box like NoCoast.
What is your favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?
I’m pretty good with pull-ups, so anything with pull-ups is in my wheelhouse. Far and away my favorite movement, though, is the snatch. It’s so technical and fast, there’s almost something Zen-like about it in that you can work on it for years, and still not master it. There’s no better feeling (in the gym) than starting your pull, and the next second you’re solidly under the bar that felt almost weightless. I get that about 1 out of every 30 attempts.
What is your least favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?
MetCons show me no love. Burpees and Thrusters just crush me.
What is your most memorable CrossFit moment?
It’s hard to pick one. I just did my first real comp with Beth, and that was great. My first Open was awesome. I’d been reluctant to do it, and when I finally did I realized the energy of everyone doing it together can’t be matched. After coming to NoCoast last year, and getting some cues from Ian, I finally linked my bar muscle-ups and got my first ring muscle-up.
How does nutrition play a role in your fitness and recovery?
In all honesty, I’ve tried Zone and strict Paleo, and lasted about five minutes. I am committed to eating clean, though. I am good about avoiding labels and sugar. Lately, I’ve been more conscious of portion control…following the CF adage to only eat enough to sustain through daily activity and regular exercise. My recovery seems good in that I can work out 5 to 6 days most weeks, and I’m sleeping better.
How has CrossFit improved your overall wellness?
The physical benefits are pretty clear, but at various times I’ve struggled with anxiety. Doing CF regularly definitely helps me stay in front of that. Coming in at noon most days really helps reenergize both my mental and emotional focus for the second half of the day.
How has CrossFit changed your family?
As I mentioned, with the emotional and mental clarity CF brings me, I can be much more present for my family. As far as diet, we are all trying to eat cleaner. So far, I have not had much success getting anyone to embrace CF. My middle daughter has come to the gym a few times when she’s home for the summer, but I haven’t quite got her hooked yet.
Advice to new people:
It’s a cliché, but “just show up”. There is no reason to feel intimidated; CF athletes come in all shapes and sizes. The “community” almost can’t be described, until you experience it. Everyone has their own reasons for walking in the door the first time, but it’s the community that keeps you coming back. Finally, it takes commitment. Everything in life wants a piece of you. Make this investment in yourself, and don’t apologize for it. You’ll be a better person for those you care about and they will appreciate it.