Athlete of the Month: Scott Brownfeld

Salus • December 3, 2017

He has the biggest heart in the box. Always cheering on others around him, exuding positive vibes and challenging himself to be a better athlete each and every day. He won the Spirit of the Games award in 2016 and continues to showcase that spirit all year long. Finishing off 2017 strong as we announce Scott Brownfeld as our next Athlete of the Month!

Scott Brownfeld Athlete of the Month December 2017

1. When and why did you start CrossFit?

I began CrossFitting about 7 years ago but it wasn’t until I came to Salus in Feb. 2015 that I’ve been consistent.
I never really liked lifting weights but I enjoyed high intensity interval training, especially when it was in a class setting where i was guided and motivated. I did boot camp workouts in the 90’s and the Insanity DVDs when they came out but they became boring and monotonous, and my Sunday rec football days were coming to an end so i was looking for “something” and after 1 class I was hooked.

Not to sound too cliche, but I aspire to be the best version of myself possible.

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

Omg… physically & mentally im stronger…

also my endurance, power & strength all have increased tremendously

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

Hell yea!!! Pull ups, cleans, wall walks but i was also very weak and inefficient at a ton of other exercises

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

Although my weight is about the same i went down a size in pants and i feel i’ve lost some fat and gained some lean muscle mass…I HAVE BOOBS AND TRAPS AND A 2 PACK

5. How has CrossFit changed you in other ways?

CrossFit nourishes my Mind,Body & Soul.

The hour in the box is my meditation.

The sense of belonging and being part of the Salus community is so special in and of itself. It has definitely increased my mental grit and perseverance.

For me CrossFit parallels life itself. The ups and downs,triumphs & struggles, acceptance, the desire and commitment to be better, I can go on and on but what i practice in the box carries over to my life.

6. How do you describe CrossFit to your friends?

Constantly varied FUNCTIONAL movements at high intensity.

If done properly it’s not just exercising….its training to become fit, faster,stronger,more powerful and healthier .GPP….

For me CrossFit is a way of life and every WOD is done with a purpose.

I try to explain how we try to move the needle from sickness and wellness to fitness.

7. What keeps you motivated to continue?

CrossFit Salus Athlete of the Month Scott Brownfeld I’m not afraid to die but i am afraid of getting old.

I want to be able to get down on the floor and play with my grandkids…I want to be able to lift them up in the air or do push ups with them on my back. I don’t ever want to be on any medications to correct my health.

The following really resonated with me when i read it:

“I train for the worst day in my life that i hope will never come so i’m physically and mentally prepared to handle it.”

Ever since i was born 8 weeks prematurely I’ve always been an odds defier which may be part of my life’s purpose so doing what i do at my age keeps me motivated in out of the box.

I also like to set a good example for my kids Once again trying to be the best version of myself.

8. Favorite lift or WOD?

My favorite WOD is Fight Gone Bad
My favorite lift is The Clean

9. What advice would you give to a newbie just joining CrossFit Salus?

Be patient and give the process at least 15 to 20 WODs to get acclimated with all the lingo, the exercises, the class routine and to see some gains.

I would also suggest to leave their ego at the door and to practice technique 1st then consistency with that technique AND THEN the intensity.

LISTEN TO YOUR COACH

10. What is your next goal to accomplish?

Oy so many…long term goal is shoulder health.

More stability, ROM & strength.

Short term is to be top 25% in the Open.

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

FGB format.
Power cleans
Sled push
Floor to shoulder with Atlas Stones
Rope climbs
Bench press

12. Favorite thing to do for fun?

Hanging with my family!

13. Favorite healthy dish….and favorite splurge?

Pan seared salmon (made by my wife) with roasted veggies and mashed sweet potatoes!
My “treat” meal is a slice of foccacia pizza from Brooklyn and a scoop of peanut butter vanilla ice cream.