Name: Chai Landicho
Age: 33
CrossFit Start Date (and box): 30-day trial on November 19, 2010 but officially joined January 14, 2011 at CrossFit Silicon Valley
Favorite movement or WOD: Big Bang – I love the mix of squat snatches and c&j
Least favorite movement or WOD: None – although I am still not fond of going upside down
GET TO KNOW CHAI
What was your athletic background prior to CrossFit?
I picked up running about a year and a half prior to starting CrossFit to prep for my birthday present to myself – run a half marathon for my 30th.
How did you hear about CrossFit? What convinced you to join, and why have you stayed?
I work ~300m away from the old location of the box, so there was no excuse not to go. Plus I found a 30-day trial from Groupon and was getting burnt out from running half marathons. I stayed because I like to surprise myself in learning what I can do.
How do you manage the mental and physical demands of CrossFit training?
Each time I struggle, I remind myself of what I have accomplished in the months I’ve been training. Since I keep re-injuring myself, I have been more cautious in a lot of things. I am slowly learning when to stop and when to push through.
What do you love about the people and/or place where you train?
They have helped me through a very dark stage of my life, and for that, I am eternally grateful for them.
What do you do in your everyday life? How has CrossFit impacted that role (or roles)?
I work as a paper pusher for a safety company, and I have often been a person who struggled with my confidence. Since becoming a CrossFitter, I realized that once I put my mind into something, I can do it.
Looking back, what 2-3 things did you wish you knew when you started CrossFit?
(1) It’s addicting. (2) I need to know when to stop.
What is your most memorable CrossFit moment? What is your most embarrassing moment?
There are too many memorable CrossFit moments (does meeting the most awesome people in my life count?), but the most embarrassing moment is failing the 40” jump after landing 42” the week prior. I have not tried the 40” jump since March 2011.
Contribute to this story by commenting below: