Marching into a new month means a new Athlete of the Month — say hello to Mr. March: Zack Smith! He’s an 8th grade teacher for Lakeshore and loves to get outdoors when the weather allows. Scroll below to read more about this fabulous athlete!
Tell us about yourself.
I’m Zack Smith. I moved to St. Joe in August of this year to start working as an 8th grade language arts teacher at Lakeshore Middle School. Before coming here, I lived and worked in San Pedro Sula, Honduras for three years. Outside of my profession (and CrossFit!), I love to bike, spend time at the beach, play tennis, read, and enjoying all the craft beer that West Michigan has to offer!
How long have you been with CrossFit Tides and what made you decide to start?
I started with Crossfit Tides in November of 2021. I started CrossFit in Honduras and wanted to find a gym where I could restart my fitness after the pandemic and moving back to the States. I also had a friend from college who attended Tides a few years ago and he recommended that I go here.
What were your thoughts after your first WOD?
My first thoughts were, “Wow…I’m really out of shape.”
What do you enjoy most about Tides or CrossFit in general?
The biggest thing that I love about CrossFit tides is the community that we have. Through the months that I have been here, I feel more connected to the overall community in St. Joseph and it really does feel like home.
What have you learned since joining Tides?
Through the coaches at CrossFit tides, I’ve tried to work on finding smaller “wins” and to know that even if it may not feel like it, I’m still making progress each day I come to the gym.
What is your proudest moment?
A few weeks ago I was able to connect two bar muscle-ups in a row! It’s a skill that I’ve been wanting for a while!
How have you seen yourself change- mentally and physically since joining Tides? What impact has CFT had on you in and out of the gym?
Physically, I can tell that I have put on a good amount of muscle, especially considering where I started, all over my body. I feel that I have more energy throughout the day. In terms of mental effects, I think that CrossFit gives me a set time in the day where I don’t have to worry about everything going on in the world, at work, and I can just focus on my goals and my fitness. I think that this has helped create a routine in my life where I just feel more organized and purposeful about what I do.
When you’re not CrossFitting what is your favorite thing to do?
As generic as it sounds, my favorite thing to do when not at the gym is to spend time with my close friends. We are all spread out throughout the state, so anytime that I can see them is a blessing.
The one tip you’d give someone who is thinking about starting or just started?
Just go! It can seem intimidating at first, but I ALWAYS feel better after going to workout. For those that have already started, just keep going.
Quick Questions
Favorite Cheat Meal: Pizza
Favorite Musician/Band: Phoebe Bridgers
Favorite Sports Team: Michigan State Spartans!
Favorite TV Show/ Movie: My Brilliant Friend
Favorite Athlete: Roger Federer
#atotm #tidestrained #tidesfamily