Chris Goodwin’s CrossFit9 Story

“I never heard of CrossFit. I heard of cross training and crossdressing, but not CrossFit. That was approximately three years ago. From high school, to the military, to becoming a police officer, I always strived to stay in good shape. I grew up in the era of big muscle mags like Flex and Muscle & (nothing to do with) Fitness; mottos like ‘go big or go home’, ‘no pain, no gain’, ‘cardio is Spanish for no muscle’, and ‘a big muscle is a strong muscle’! It worked well in my younger days, but eventually it caught up, but I still felt I was doing alright. I was team leader on SWAT, had a 465# 1 rep max on bench, and the SWAT obstacle course posed no problem to complete.

“I was invited by chance to the CrossFit9 Open House at the old downtown location on MLK. The WOD was “Cindy”: a 20 minute AMRAP of 5 pull-ups, 10 push ups and 15 ‘sissy squats’ (as we called them at Gold’s Gym, brah!). I thought to myself after it was explained, piece of cake… I can do that while eating a sandwich. I did it. I sucked. Only six freaking rounds. I was tight and sore for over a flipping week, but I loved it and I wanted more! I was humbled. I stood a besmirched, humbled meathead.

“I did not return for several months. I eventually decided that I would, but first I wanted to get in shape before I joined. Funny/strange/weird. I wanted to train to get in shape… to train to get in shape! WTF. A few months later, I walked into the brand new location of CrossFit9, and I haven’t looked back. After a year I cancelled my meathead gym membership and drank the Kool-Aid. I still have a ways to go, but I’m enjoying the trip. My mobility has improved by leaps and bounds. My cardiovascular conditioning is ten times better than it was.

“However, the best asset at the ‘9’ is the people — trainers and members. I have met some of the coolest, funniest, and supportive people ever. I truly feel lucky and blessed. I’ve spread the word throughout the Saint Petersburg Police Department and some have even drank the Kool-Aid! I get asked about CrossFit9 at the department often. It’s truly a feeling of family when even my grandson can enter the box and instantly be in comfort mode.

“And yes… I will give him some of the Kool-Aid in his sippy cup! 🙂

“Love it here!”

Chris Goodwin

Age 49