Name: Eric Newman
Age: 42
Occupation: Writer / Producer

When did you first start CrossFit?
September 2019 — 9 months ago.

Tell us about your sports & fitness background.
Not much to tell! I used to run sometimes, and I’d occasionally try a fitness program, but I never played any team sports in high school or college. I’ve never really been an athlete. Honestly, most people who know me are completely shocked that I’m doing — and loving — CrossFit. Especially my wife. Just the other day, she jokingly said, “WHO ARE YOU?!”

How did you first get into CrossFit? How did it go?
Pretty simple. I googled CrossFit gyms near me. And luckily, CFE is less than 2 miles from my house.
I literally had no idea what I was in for either. But thankfully, Nate was super supportive and made everything simple and easy for me. I joined the 6:30 am class, and I have such a great time working out with that crew.

What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health, and fitness since starting CrossFit?
Keeping weight on has always been a life-long struggle for me. So gaining weight was definitely one of my goals. But I was also looking for a fitness program that would challenge me and keep me fit overall.
Since starting CrossFit, I’ve put on about 15 pounds. I can’t fit into most of my old jeans, but in all my zoom meetings these last few weeks, I’ve found that pants aren’t as necessary as they used to be. I’m definitely stronger too. And I feel like I have more energy. Oh, and when I was snuggling my 4-year-old daughter the other day, she said, “Daddy, you have boobs now!” So… maybe that’s a good thing?

What impact has CrossFit had on your life?
As a writer/producer, I spend most of my days in front of a screen, working toward some stressful deadline. CrossFit has been an amazing way for me to mentally de-stress and keep a positive mood and outlook.
Also, I don’t think I could have survived corona quarantine without CFE! Working from home in a full house with wild, homeschooling kids… is a crazy maker. I actually logged onto the Zoom classes and worked out with Nate and Alli every single day. I counted it up too — I did 42 zoom classes. It meant so much to me that in the middle of quarantine, CFE found ways to keep going — loaning out equipment, selling some equipment, doing zoom classes — and keep us all in shape. It wasn’t always easy. I got some weird looks from my neighbors. And often, my kids would interrupt the zoom class, dancing for the camera or blowing bubbles. But it was fun!

What is your advice for people getting started or thinking about starting CrossFit?
Don’t think too much about it! Just do it. My only regret with CrossFit is that I didn’t start sooner. I kept thinking I’d like to check it out, but I thought I had to be in better shape or know what I was doing first. But that’s the fun part about it. The coaches (and community) are great and super supportive. They’re here to help the non-athletes like me get in shape.

What are your hobbies, interests, and other talents outside of CrossFit? It’s hard to have hobbies with 2 young kids. But I love to read a good novel. And I’m working on writing one too. Oh and I love a good horror movie.

What’s the wallpaper of your phone?
My two kids, Zander & Zelda.