March 2021 Member of the Month

Chad Clayton

Preferred Name: Chad

Age: 43
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Where did you grow up? Fitchburg, Wisconsin. My childhood home is about two miles from where the CrossFit Games will be held.

When did you become a member of Mi5 Fitness? December 2019

What do you do when you are not at Mi5? I spend my time raising two children and my dog, Gary. I also enjoy spending time with my girlfriend and friends. I like eating out for dinners, binge watching shows (currently "Ballers" and "Schitt's Creek") cheering on my favorite sports teams (Packers and Badger Football/Basketball). Playing BINGO is another favorite pastime of mine. I often joke that I am already prepared to live in a retirement community.

How did you find out about Mi5?  I have known about Mi5 for several years after researching the local CrossFit community. I decided to begin CrossFit when I was faced with another long winter spent on the treadmill in my basement. I just could not stomach doing so again.

When/How did you realize CrossFit/Mi5 was the right fit for you? I realized that CrossFit was the right fit for me after experiencing several WODs. In one hour, I would accomplish more than I would accomplish at a big box gym in over two hours. Much of that time there was spent talking and waiting for equipment. I now also perform exercises/movements that I would NEVER do on my own. I would be remiss if I did not mention the friendships that I have made because of CrossFit. I have worked from home for many years, which can be very isolating. Being a member of Mi5 allows me to be a part of something greater.

What is your favorite WOD/movement? Back squats, bench press, and sled push. Brings me back to the glory days of high school football.

What is your least favorite WOD/movement? If I say all Metcons, is that too broad of a category? If so, then anything involving burpees. However, it is that disdain for certain movements that keeps me coming back.

What would your perfect WOD look like? Back squats, bench press, and sled pushes. Maybe some SUs and Farmer Carries to go along with it.

What motivates you to stay fit? I have always struggled with my weight, and I am self-conscious about the way I look. Working out aids with weight management better than my nutrition plan does. In addition, longevity. I want to be around to meet my grandchildren and watch them grow. I also like to think that I am setting a good example for my children.

What is something about you that Mi5 members do not yet know? When I was about 10 years old, my mom gave me some old checks to rip up. I decided burning them would be easier. By doing so, I accidentally lit the woods behind our home on fire and burned several acres. Four fire departments were called in to put out the blaze. I didn't so much as touch a match or lighter for years after that.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Mi5?
Keep going. The only person who cares about being at the bottom of the Whiteboard is yourself. I should take my own advice.