Matt Koerner
Hometown: Alexandria, Virginia
Age: 37
Occupation: Middle School Teacher & Realtor
When did you first start Strength & Conditioningting?:
October 2014
What is your favorite movement? Favorite workout?
Push Presses. I like AMRAP workouts because they show progress.
What is your least favorite movement? Least favorite workout?
Running. The Thanksgiving 2014 Lumberjack workout.
Tell us about your sports & fitness background:
In high school I played football and baseball, and threw shot put. In college, I played rugby. I really enjoyed being part of a team, challenging myself and my teammates. After college, though, I focused very little on sports or fitness. I never liked the gym so I simply stopped going. Outside of rec league sports, travel, and outdoor fun, I did not pay attention to regular fitness for over a decade.
How did you first get exposed to Strength & Conditioning? Do you remember your first WOD? How did it go?
I signed up for bootcamp at Courage Fitness Durham in October 2014 to gain some fitness to better keep up with my two kids, ages 4 and 3. I was intrigued by the crazy stuff that was happening in Strength & Conditioning, so I made the move in December. My first workout was the Lumberjack workout on Thanksgiving. Seven rounds with a 400 meter run after each. It was awful. Afterward, when I realized that I had survived, I knew I could move forward.
What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health and fitness since starting Strength & Conditioning? (before/after)
After only a few months of Strength & Conditioning, I sleep better, I have more energy, and I move more. In April, without additional training outside of Strength & Conditioning, I finished a 10K, even though I am not fond of running. Before, I am not sure I could have finished a 5K! The beauty of Strength & Conditioning is that the gains come quickly yet there are unlimited opportunities for further growth.
What impact has Strength & Conditioning had on your life?
Strength & Conditioning has provided me with a regular routine that has improved my health and my attitude. Courage Fitness Durham is a place where I go to challenge myself in a supportive environment. I was not aware that I needed such a place, but it is now an integral part of what I do.
What is your favorite Strength & Conditioning/CFD moment?
I have two favorite moments. One, which is pretty embarrassing, was when I completed four double unders in a row. While it was a small achievement, it felt like I had won the lottery – its the small things. Another moment was when I completed the 15.5 workout in the Crossfit Open. 15.5 crushed me, but I finished it nonetheless.
What is your advice for people just getting started or thinking about starting Strength & Conditioning?
The best advice I can give for people starting out is to stick with it. Scale the workouts and keep coming back. The gains come quickly and the challenge something to embrace.
What are your hobbies, interests, and/or talents outside of Strength & Conditioning?
I like craft beer, being outdoors, reading, and real estate. I enjoy exploring new places. I met my wife in Ecuador, where we both served as Peace Corps volunteers. I have also lived in the Netherlands, Haiti, and Nicaragua. We arrived in Durham last summer from Nicaragua. Now, spending time with family, exploring the Carolinas, and playing with our kids are the top priorities.