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ATHLETE OF THE MONTH APRIL 2021

May 28, 2021

KARL DE LEON

1) Before joining RLAF what was your biggest struggle? What were your biggest frustrations?

I’ve always been a big guy for most of my life. Before joining RLAF, I just had a goal of losing weight and getting healthy. I was hospitalized a few months before pandemic due to my blood glucose levels getting out of control and my body shutting down. My brother-in-law and sister helped me out a lot during this time and introduced CrossFit to me and was getting into a rhythm and catching an interest in fitness, but then the pandemic hit and we all isolated from each other for safety reasons.

2) How did your struggle and frustrations affect your life? What did you feel like before joining RLAF?

Being alone and self isolating and the feeling of not making progress can be really taxing on you. I developed an unhealthy fear of food after my hospitalization and at the time I couldn’t lift weights as I didn’t have any at my home. I adjusted the best I could during that time, but progress was slow and frustrating.

3) What was it about RLAF that made you join?

I was sitting in my room chatting with Elvin through video games telling him how I’m on a fitness journey and was looking to join a crossfit gym. He then introduced me to RLAF. The moment I visited RLAF, it was an instant “yes where do i sign up!”

4) What made you stay with us? What do you enjoy the most about RLAF?

RLAF is more than “Just a Gym.” The community is absolutely amazing. Be it a morning or evening class, the coaches, staff, and members are all great people to be around. They are all so inspiring and great to be with you never want to leave.

5) How did our program help you? How is Life different for you now?

I’ve never been fit. This past year with RLAF has given me a great opportunity to learn more about myself and reach the potential within myself. Being surrounded by such an environment adjusts the way I approach fitness now. Before I eat and go to the gym just to get healthy. While that is still a priority, I now eat and approach fitness and health on how to perform better and not suck and finding the joy of being able to move my body the way i want to.

6) Were there any specific goals that you reached that you are particularly proud of? How did it make you feel?

There are a bunch of goals I did accomplish. I’m proud to have participated in the Crossfit Open 2021 and even RXd some of the events. The me a year and a half ago would have never even touched a barbell. I learned that the gamer inside of me wants to keep leveling up. So while I’m happy with what I accomplished, I now have new goals and new levels to rise to!

7) What would you tell someone interested in joining RLAF?

Just do it! – Nike! JK, but try it first. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, and do what you can. RLAF and its members will be there for you. Most importantly, HAVE FUN! If you can find a fitness path you can enjoy for the rest of your life, do that. It doesn’t have to be fancy, or trending or anything.

8) Is there anything personal you would like to add?

Where else would you find a place where you can put on a Kylo Ren Mask and do a snatch while the owner stares at you? Or trying to reach PRs while the songs from The Greatest Showman are playing in the background?? OR just having a Darth Vader kettlebell being ready to get used??? or there’s a bunch of anime and disney fans in the staff and members of the gym?!?!?!?! Life is good in RLAF!! Thank you guys!

Ready to start your own fitness journey? click on the link below and let’s talk!