Athlete of the Month: April 2016

Andy Reuter

Member since: I started Windy City in the late spring of 2013.  A good friend of mine pushed me toward functional weight lifting when I was 30. Yes, I didn’t start lifting weights until I was 30.  People told me I would enjoy Crossfit, so when I moved to the new house I walked over and was hooked at first sight.  No machines, no treadmills, open space, chalk, rings, power racks galore – this is what a gym should look like!

Nickname: Reuter. When I first started at Windy City, SVP (Scott Van Pelt) was tossed around but never stuck.  Most people call me by my last name.  I am open to suggestions!

Windy City: What more can we say about Andy other than this guy is DOWN FOR ANYTHING!  Whether it be tackling the Murph Team challenge last spring, joining a Trodo team in the summor or joining the ALPHA Jack'd program and already crushing some of his personal fitness goals, Andy has continually progressed over the past year with his fitness as well as becoming a strong participating member of the Windy City community. We also admire that fact that Andy is sharing his enthusiasim for fitness and living BIG by often bringing his daughters to the gym and getting them really excited about what he's doing. Andy exmplifies what it means to be a good athlete, student, teammate and family man. 

“Most people believe vulnerability is weakness.  But really, vulnerability is courage.  We must ask ourselves… are we willing to show up and be seen?” -Brene Brown

Andy: Before Windy City, I had a hard time staying consistent with my workouts. The team aspect and having the workout designed for you really helped me get back on track. Above that, this place has a mission statement, an identity. Windy City and the coaches challenge me to be more ME.  And now I sound like Dr. Seuss…great… What gym would ask these questions of their clients?  Windy City has forced me to look inward and figure out who I am and what I value. It just feels right. This place honestly feels like a second home.  Windy City is willing to work with you toward whatever goal you have. I believe they have the tools to help you reach your goals whatever they may be.  Whatever goal I put forth, this place will help me achieve.  Training here makes me feel supported. I am stronger now than I have ever been and I feel physically better than ever.  

I also love bringing my daughters to the gym and showing them women in here lifting, competing and coaching. They also like to see me pushing and competing. This place (i.e. the people who train here and coach here) inspire me to push myself to new levels.

Recent Adventures

I competed in the CrossFit Games Open in 2015 for the first time.  However, as I look back, 2015 Murph training is where I really came out of my shell and became part of the Windy City community. I met many people through that and from that, I did the Trodo games in 2015 with some fellow Murph trainees (and Doc!).  

I also will never forget the ‘Best Day Ever tubing trip’ for many reasons, esp one, that most of you know…One last goal I had for a long time was a 405lb deadlift before I turned 40 (this August).  Thanks to the Alpha program (#manshit), I hit that goal a few weeks ago and way ahead of my birthday!

Future Adventures

I am in the middle of the 2016 Crossfit Games Open right now. I am considering doing a Go Ruck event. Except for Murph day, I have nothing planned as of right now. That will change.

If money were no object, I would travel with my family and friends all over the world and by travel I mean in a private jet. My first stop would be Rome. I have always wanted to go there. Octoberfest in Germany and walking the Great Wall of China are also on my bucket list.

Personal Goals

At the gym:  I really want to improve my day to day diet.  As for exercise, getting out of my own way is key. This is part of why I enjoy this gym.  I put myself in the hands of the coaches and they have pushed me farther than I ever though I could go.  For a specific goal, I want to be able to do 10 unbroken strict pullups.

Professionally: To continue to grow and learn every day.  A big four accounting firm can be demanding and things have been changing a great deal lately. As I take on more responsibility, I need to ensure that my career stays in line with my values.

Personal: To remember to be kind to myself. It all starts with how you treat yourself.  Life is busy and has many ups and down.  My goal personally is to be happy.

“I guess it comes down to a simple choice, really. Get busy living or get busy dying.” – Andy Dufresne