Eric Burke, Athlete of the Month March 2020

Salus • March 8, 2020

Every month we highlight a different Salus athlete. This person has something special. They give their best in every class (and then some), they are hungry to learn and always ready to do the work without complaining. Not only that, but this person supports their fellow classmates and encourages them to reach their goals, too. This athlete embodies what we believe the Salus Community should be all about.

Eric Burke athlete of the month Our March 2020 Athlete of the Month is Eric Burke. Eric came to CrossFit Salus in 2017 looking for a change of pace for his workouts. Now, you’ll find Eric crushing the early morning WODs bringing his positive energy and sense of humor with him to class. In fact, he’s also training to compete at The Asbury Park Summer Games with his team: “Dad Bod” along with TQ and CJ.

We’re honored to have Eric be a part of the community! Enjoy his entertaining interview.

1. When and why did you start CrossFit?

I started in March 2017. I heard a lot about CrossFit and was looking for a change from my normal routine at the gym. In one of my first 6am classes I remember mentioning that I might scale the WOD. Jeff McGoey uttered the words “no you’re not.” The rest was history.

2. How has your performance changed since you started CrossFit?

Cardio and legs weren’t part of my vocabulary prior to joining CrossFit. I quickly realized that was a major disadvantage. I still have a way to go, but I’ve seen significant improvement in those areas.

3. Are there exercises you can do now that you couldn’t do before?

Way too many to count. Muscle ups, snatches, handstand pushups, double unders, etc.

4. How has your body physically changed since you started?

Rome wasn’t built in a day.

Eric Burke athlete of the month 5. How has CrossFit changed you in other ways?

I’ve always been a glass half full kind of guy. My mindset will always be positive, but it doesn’t mean life is stress/worry free.

David Goggins (Former Navy Seal) talks a lot about “callusing the mind.” He explains that if you view every difficult situation as an opportunity to “callus your mind”, you will be prepared for difficult moments in life, rather than letting them drain you. CrossFit helps me do just that. I feel 10x better mentally/physically walking out of the box.

I have the actual calluses to prove it.

6. How do you describe CrossFit to your friends?

CrossFit is the perfect mixture of competition and community.

I like being able to compete with others who push me past where I thought I could go before. Ang and Gino have built a great community at Salus and I’m happy to be a part of it.

7. What keeps you motivated to continue? What’s your “why”?

My wife – She’s my “why” for everything.
I need to be prepared for when my daughter brings her first male “friend” over.

8. Favorite lift or WOD?

19.5. The day I felt like I was circling the drain. I’ve never been more exhausted in my life. I hated everything about that workout. That’s what I love about CrossFit – it’s humbling.

Eric Burke athlete of the month 9. What advice would you give to a newbie just joining CrossFit Salus?

Take it one day at a time, learn proper technique, and listen to the coaches. Oh and buy a foam roller.

10. What is your next goal to accomplish?

Becoming a great father.

11. If you could design your own WOD, what would it look like?

Coach lead warm-up:
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With a running clock
00:00-10:00 – 1 full rum bucket at Donovan’s
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“Dad Bod”

For Time:
15-12-9
Muscle ups
Hang Cleans (155/105)

50 DU’s between each round

Eric Burke athlete of the month 12. Favorite thing to do for fun?

Spending time with family/friends, going to the beach, and CrossFit.

13. Favorite healthy dish….and favorite “splurge” meal?

Healthy – Grilled chicken and grilled zucchini
Splurge – The “Jersey Shore” panini and Fried Ravioli from Taliercios

14. If you could be a superhero who would you be and why?

“Superman so I could beat Hardie [and CJ] in all the WODs without almost killing myself”

15. Favorite motivational quote?

“Don’t give up, don’t ever give up” – Jim Valvano

16. Interesting fact not many people know about you.

M&M’s are made in my hometown (Hackettstown, NJ). You’re welcome.

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