November 2019 Member of the Month

Nathan Van Eps

Preferred Name: Nathan Van Eps (Nate is fine too)

Age: 44
 
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in rural Minnesota, near La Salle. I went to school in St. James.
 
When did you become a member of Mi5 Fitness?
03/26/2018
 
What do you do when you are not at Mi5?
I am a Software Developer for Optum. I like to read, watch movies and shows, and play video games. I like to do some landscaping around the house, for a little bit anyway. I like to collect some interesting stones.
 
How did you find out about Mi5?
When my old gym (CrossFit South Metro/Reisen Fitness) was closing, DJ dropped in with some fliers. I heard good things from the members of my old gym.
 
When/How did you realize CrossFit/Mi5 was the right fit for you?
Having a desk job can be terrible for your fitness. I had been occasionally weightlifting (bodybuilding/powerlifting style). I started long distance running (slowly). I tried some triathlons. I came to the realization that a mix between these modes of fitness was best and much funner. I started with the 'Alpha' program in Lifetime for a couple months. I was told about CrossFit and recommended a gym. I started in November 2011. I did like the Alpha training, but I liked CrossFit better.

What is your favorite WOD/movement?
For a movement, I like the one rep max snatch. For a WOD, I like the first 2019 CrossFit Games workout the best.
4 Rounds for Time
400 meter Run
3 Legless Rope Climbs
7 Squat Snatches (130/185 lb)

What is your least favorite WOD/movement?
For a WOD, something mono-tonic, like a 2k row. For a movement, I am not good at HSPU. But I plan to get better at them.

What would your perfect WOD look like?
I like WODs with many different types of movements and implements.

What is one thing you have been able to accomplish since starting at Mi5 that you never thought you'd be able to do?
I had honestly kinda given up on (or not ever worked on) stringing together muscle-ups, but just recently was able to do this.

What motivates you to stay fit?
(*) being healthier
(*) being able to move better
(*) looking good

What is something about you that Mi5 members do not yet know?
When I was digging in my back yard, to level the ground for my shed, I found an amethyst and an ancient fossilized coral.

What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Mi5?
If you are new to CrossFit, start slow. The gym members can do something amazing things that take time to master. Advice for Mi5 in particular is just to talk to everyone. It is a good group of people.