What’s up Titan Community?! I’m Derek. What an honor to be Titan of the Month for only doing Crossfit for about 10 months. Originally, I’m from NJ (don’t hold that against me) and married into the whole “where did you go to high school” Small-timore thing! Currently, I work as a medical sales rep, coach a girl’s high school varsity golf team, and coach a U13 girls club soccer team. I’m an athlete by nature and love a little competition. This is why I love me some CrossFit!
What led you to try CrossFit?
I was feeling the “Over 50’s blues”, tired, and out of shape. Lucky for me, I ran into a former Titan member who recommended I meet with Rose at Titan CrossFit. He said the community was super supportive, workouts are pre-determined, and the coaches would help kick my a**, I mean, get me started. Not ever doing CrossFit before, I was intimidated to say the least, but after speaking with Rose, I was ALL IN!
Why do you continue to CrossFit?
The accountability and high standard the environment places on you. I love all the daily challenges in every workout and try to better myself from the last one. I don’t know, I’m kind of a little addicted to it.
Describe how your attitude towards health and fitness has evolved since you began your journey.
Sure, the change of physical appearance makes you look good for the beach, but it’s been about the growth of my mental side. CrossFit has really helped me suppress the old man “lazy” voice and push me to heights I never thought possible. I just feel bigger, better, stronger.
Share a memorable CrossFit moment that makes you laugh or puts a smile on your face.
There are 2 moments that stand out. I mean how can you not strive to be better when you have coaches telling you, “Nope, you can do more.”? One workout, I was doing some sort of powerlifting and struggling. I went to go get some lighter weight and Coach Dave came over to me and said, “Nope.” I gave him a confused exhausted look and he again said, “Nope, continue to lift what you’re lifting,” then he moved on. I struggled and finished the workout. Small “win” for mental growth! After another workout, I believe it ended with something cardio, Coach Randi approached me and said, “I don’t want to catch you doing Indy any longer. Any cardio, you need to be doing Freedom or higher. Don’t let me catch you or else!” (Message sent, message received!) Chalk up another point for self growth!
What are you proud of and why?
I think back to my first day of CrossFit, 5:30am class where I did 60+ wall balls with a 10lb ball. My legs were so sore, I couldn’t walk for a week. I thought, “What the heck did I sign myself up for?” Well, only 10 or so months later, with the support and encouragement of the Titan community/family, I’m doing things I never thought I could…from kipping pull ups, to power snatches, 1,000 box step ups, a gazillion burpees, handstands, a bazillion wall balls and on and on. Crossfit has become a huge part of my routine and I’m proud I’ve stuck with it!
What's your advice for other CrossFitters or people looking to start?
Just START – DO IT! CrossFit will change your life – physically and mentally! The Titan community will push you to do things you never thought possible. You can do more than you think you can! Believe!
Why the coaches chose Derek as Titan of the Month:
Derek Schoch is an outstanding choice for Titan of the Month, possessing many admirable qualities that his coaches are eager to share. He is a humble, hard-working, personable, encouraging member who is inquisitive and is very receptive to coaching feedback.
Leading by example, Derek often works out alongside his daughter. His commitment to proper form and strategic scaling for consistency demonstrates his focus on long-term health. In the almost a year he has been with us, Derek has achieved significant improvements in both mobility and technique, resulting in increased confidence and strength.
Beyond his personal achievements, Derek is a vital part of the Titan community. He consistently connects with others by initiating conversations before and after class. His positive attitude shines as he offers encouragement to new members and congratulates seasoned athletes on their successes. Having such an outgoing, happy, and approachable member like Derek is truly instrumental in strengthening the Titan community.
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