Andy Ray closed out 2023 as our Decemeber Athlete of the Month. He has become a 6:45am regular. This honor is certainly something he never expected and wasn’t shooting for. That’s the beauty of it. He has worked his ass off since joining us and has been receptive to all the coaches.
“Just to be clear, this 6:45 class is great because of the coaching staff. You, Ryan, and Megan are extremely inclusive and seem to be just as interested in not only the superstars but those of us that need a bit of extra coaching.” Andy is in his 60s and has decades of workout experience from the classic gyms to crossfit. It has been a challenge for him to shift his mindset into doing what he can and for him rather than someone else’s expectations or standards. It’s been great to see his progress and achieve some goals. After a couple months of consistent hard work, Andy went on a beach vacation and was confident to take his shirt off. It’s an amazing feeling when hard work pays off and is noticed. We love coaching you Andy! Keep showing up, working hard and enjoying the journey.
Written by: Coach Rob Moloney
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Q&A
Why did you start functional fitness cross-training?
I had been working out in my basement for the past 5 years. As with most people who attempt to set up a meaningful regiment that challenges them we end up falling short. As I get older I realize the motivational piece is in fact the key to long term health.
What’s your background? (Athletic)
I played lacrosse in middle school and a bit in high school but nothing after that. Over the years, I belonged to a few different gyms. Mainly Jack LaLane through the 80’s. In 2016 I joined Cross Fit Jetty and actually loved it. The problem was the mindset that you must push yourself to the breaking point. Several injuries later I stopped going.
How long have you been a member and how long have you been doing functional fitness?
I believe I started Aug 1st. I’ve always attempted to do some exercise but not always with great results.
What is your favorite thing about the gym? The people are what makes the gym. Great coaching staff, well thought out and developed daily workouts and the mindset that you do what you can. Not what someone thinks you should be doing. I honestly feel that at IP Fitness the most important objective is to stay healthy and show up.
What is the biggest challenge you have overcome since joining the gym?
Truthfully, the biggest challenge for me was to muster up the confidence at 63 years old that I still have it in me.
What is your favorite moment at the gym so far?
Getting Athlete of the month of course! Seriously, The human aspect displayed by the coaching staff. You guys actually make me feel as if we’re all in this together not just all business. I also think its pretty cool when its a smaller class and you ask the random trivia questions. I never actually know the answers but it puts a very human start to the day.
What’s your favorite “cheat” food?
Burgers with melted swiss, fried onions and slobbering amount of mayonnaise.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about starting?
Great place but bring your A game. It’s not for pussies…..
What drives you?
Several years ago I had to get 2 stents. Heart disease runs rampart in my family so I’d rather not keep collecting stents. Anyway my wife is a gym crazy person and 5 years younger than me. I need to keep up.
What is your biggest fitness goal right now? I would love to get down to 160 lbs. More important is feeling strong and I will tell you that in the 6 or so months I’ve been going to IP Fitness I’m absolutely realizing that goal.