Member of the Month December 2024 - Richard Wikkerink
Do you currently have a fitness related goal you are chasing?
Besides a sweaty workout? I'd really like to do an unassisted pull-up.
What movement have you grown to love?
Wall balls. I love the challenge of getting it right and hitting the right pace that's both challenging without maxing out cardio.
Favourite vegetable? Least favourite carb? (are there really any bad ones lol)
Roasted brussel sprouts.
Least fav carb - French fries
If you could design the perfect workout, what would it include?
Partner workout - bench followed by WOD: Assault bike/row, wall balls, sandbag carry, push press (perhaps not a workout that the coaches would plan, but I like these exercises). then a tabata workout as a finisher.
When you're not at the gym, what's your favourite thing to do?
Gardening and cooking/baking for the family...ideally with the grandkids
What inspires you to be consistent?
Feeling better physically, mentally, and emotionally. My job puts me in my head a lot - problem-solving and team leadership - and working out in the morning gets me out of that space. Also the routine - booking a class, getting up in the AM and pulling on the shorts removes decisions about whether I feel like going. The icing on the cake: humble bragging about my workout when a 30-something staff member comments on my sore-leg walk.
If you could only listen to one song during a workout, what would it be?
Sky full of stars, Coldplay. A few years ago I was regularly running 5K, "Sky full of stars" was at the end of the run playlist and the motivation was to finish by the time it started (maybe more of a cool down song than a motivation for the whole class).
What's the biggest change you've seen in yourself since you started CrossFit?
Primarily, a sense of accomplishment with each workout. I know I'm getting stronger and the next workout will continue that journey.
What has been your proudest Alchemy moment to date?
As a gym-class-hating-non-athletic kid, I don't have great past experiences with organized games. When we played handball this summer, I suddenly realized I was enjoying it and was passed the ball to score the final point. A workout and therapy. :)
What’s your favourite Brantford area food spot?
Hmm...I need to explore more local restaurants - best meal I've had recently was at the Standard on James St North in Hamilton.
My go-to spot for a Friday night dinner - St George Arms - walking distance from my home, offers good pub fare, has great service, and the patio in the summer is really great.