August 2023--Edgar Rada

1.Tell us about yourself, your family, your occupation, hobbies/interests.
​ About Me: I am truly blessed to call myself a devoted family man, surrounded by the incredible presence of my five precious children and my wonder loving wife. Their love and unwavering support give me an even greater purpose and inspire me to strive every day to become the best father I can possibly be.
Occupation: I make a conscious effort to steer clear of trouble and find fulfillment in my endeavors of building a software company. At present, I find immense joy and passion in all things tech-related. I've channeled my entrepreneurial spirit into the realm of software development and proudly offer a unique SaaS (software as a service) solution that I meticulously crafted “programmed” specifically for retail liquor stores. Although we only currently operate in the state of Kansas, it brings me immense satisfaction to provide a tailored software solution to self employed liquor store owners a tailored software solution that meets their needs.
Interest: Learning new skills like home improvements tricks, languages, self audio books, fishing, trap shooting, upland hunting and golf.

2. When did you start CrossFitting? Why did you start? Why do you continue now?
When I started: In 2015, my transformative journey began at Get Mean CrossFit in Manhattan. Even after Shelly closed, my appetite for growth remained insatiable, leading me to enlist Aaron Riekenberg as my personal trainer at Konza Strength. The intricacies of CrossFit fascinated me, igniting a profound interest that drove me to pursue my L1 Certification in CrossFit. I sought to grasp the underlying motives envisioned by Greg Glassman himself.

Yearning for a relentless force capable of shattering my old habits, I became driven to push my body to the edge of discomfort in the pursuit of genuine fitness. As I approached my third year, my motivation soared, fueled by a vibrant tapestry of the future I envisioned, eagerly awaiting my forties. Fueled by unwavering determination, I took the leap before my 35th birthday, setting an ambitious goal to embrace ten years of unwavering commitment to this empowering path of strength.

3. Do you remember your first WOD? What were your thoughts after your first WOD?
My First WOD: Although I cannot recall the details of my initial Workout of the Day (WOD), what remains vivid in my memory is the initial confusion surrounding the term 'WOD' and the multitude of other abbreviations displayed on the board. After completing my first couple of WODs, I found myself questioning the sanity of engaging in this particular style of exercise. However, despite my reservations, I persisted and continued to show up for each session without fail.

4. What do you enjoy most about CrossFit?
I enjoy the challenge and discomfort it brings. I enjoy the feeling of wellbeing in my body. I enjoy knowing that every time I show up I get closer to my personal goal.


5. What is your proudest CrossFit moment?
The first time I completed a WOD with a rope climb!​

6. What is your favorite movement or lift? What is your least favorite?
My favorite lift is the back squat.

My least favorite is the Thruster


7. Have you had one or two challenging CrossFit goals that you've achieved recently?

Yes, I was able to reach my 250th WOD and deadlift 315lbs

What are your current goals and how close are you to reaching them?
​ Current Goals: My current goal is to lose as much bad fat as possible. My current weight target is to reach 185 lbs; in April I was 225 and and recently achieved my 20lbs fat loss mile marker. I'm inching closer. I hope to reach my weight goal by Oct. 1st.

8. What makes CrossFit different from other fitness programs that you might have tried in the past?

I believe CrossFit stands apart from other programs due to its dynamic nature, constantly challenging and engaging various muscle groups within the body. It fosters a holistic approach, targeting different muscles with each workout. CrossFit harmonizes seamlessly with both my physical and mental appetite, allowing me to derive immense satisfaction from the exercises it offers.

Another important factor to mention I find CrossFit different is the coaches; keeping you motivated on track along with the energy you find among your classmates; which help make the exercise most enjoyable. ​


9. What impact has CrossFit Benedictus had on your life, in and out of the gym?
CrossFit Life Impact: CrossFit Benedictus has had a profound impact on my life by revealing that individuals within my social circles and community share a yearning for fitness and similar personal challenges. Beyond the gym, I have noticed a significant improvement in my ability to perform everyday fatherly tasks, such as squatting, effortlessly lifting my children in and out of car seats, tending to my yard, and carrying groceries. CrossFit Benedictus has provided me with an additional avenue for connecting with others in my community. It has also granted me the opportunity to impart the importance of fitness to my family, demonstrating through my own example that prioritizing fitness can positively influence their lives as well.


10. Tell us about your nutrition and how it has changed, if any, since starting CrossFit?
About My Nutrition: Mastering CrossFit and nutrition in order to achieve desired physical improvements can be challenging for all of us. Several years ago, one significant obstacle I faced was still occasionally, indulging in late-night social drinking, particularly on weekends and holidays, and subsequently experiencing food cravings and inadequate rest. I used to convince myself that I could simply work off the effects during the next CrossFit workout, but that approach proved ineffective. After a couple years, I ultimately realized that this lifestyle was not compatible with my commitment to CrossFit and decided to eliminate it and be most vigilant.
Since starting CrossFit, my nutrition has been an ever-evolving journey. Along the way, I have made numerous adjustments, all aimed at facilitating faster recovery, muscle building, and improved performance. Recently, I have discovered specific foods that suit my body well, and I have incorporated fasting, both of which have resulted in positive changes and outcomes.

11. If you could write a WOD for the classes to do, what would it look like?

RADA WOD - 5 RFT
Row 350 Meters
Ab Mat Situps 15
Devils Press 10
Ab Mat Situps 15

Finish with a Lime, Salt, and Casa Amigo Silver Tequila Shot!
​
12. What advice do you have for others about the importance of the dedication of taking care of yourself, of investing in yourself?
Advice: In my view, prioritizing self-care is of utmost importance, and regrettably, it tends to be undervalued in our society. Our bodies serve as the primary tool we rely on each day, and neglecting to invest time and effort into nurturing and strengthening it can lead to adverse consequences in the long run. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize the significance of working harmoniously with our bodies to ensure their optimal functioning and well-being.


13. What advice would you give to someone new to CrossFit or who is thinking about giving it a try?
Advice: Based on my personal perspective and prior experiences, I would recommend taking a week or two to mentally prepare yourself before diving into CrossFit. Use this time to introspect and discover the intrinsic motivation that propels you towards embracing CrossFit. Identify a compelling reason for engaging in physical exercise and establish both short-term and long-term goals for your fitness journey. By setting clear intentions and cultivating a strong sense of purpose, you can embark on your CrossFit journey with a focused mindset, enhancing your chances of success and fulfillment.