Athlete of The Month: January 2022 Mike Allen

First, tell us a little bit about yourself. What are your interests outside of CrossFit?

We moved to North Carolina from Southern Maryland in 2006. Maryland had become too much with the overcrowding, traffic, crime, and schools. We also wanted to be closer to my parents, as we’d not lived very close to them. The area and offerings we found here were quite appealing and we’re very happy for our decision.

Outside of CrossFit, my interests evolve around being outside when possible. Rucking has been my latest interest and trying to participate often. BTW – we have our next 22 mile Tobacco Trail Ruck scheduled for February 12th. Mark your calendars, it’s the week before the Open begins.

I also like golf (used to play a LOT!) and riding my Harley with Janet. Unfortunately, I’ve neglected both far too long. We are planning a two-week trip to Sturgis next August, which should be quite exciting!

How and why did you get involved in CrossFit?

Janet and I participated in several fitness programs in the past. We both entered the ‘Body for Life’ competitions and did quite well. We were also longtime members of our local Golds Gym in Maryland. Although Golds provided group classes, which we participated in at times, they weren’t anything like we’ve come to love about CrossFit. After moving to NC, we both got lazy, put on a LOT of weight, and felt really miserable. A friend of ours bought a intro coupon to CrossFit Surmount in late 2013, so that was the start for her and Janet. After seeing their enjoyment and progress, especially Janet, I wanted to give it a try. That was in January 2014 and, unless I’m in the hospital (more on that later) or out of town, I’ve been know to frequent the box most days.

What was the first workout that you completed?

That was so long ago, all I remember is we had a small group by the garage doors while a real class was going on. Lots of barbells behind us while we did mostly body weight stuff. Back then, we actually wrote our times/reps on a white board. At the end of the day, a picture of the day’s results were posted on FaceBook. That was before we had Wodify, the box was half it’s current size, and membership was about half of today’s. Things have certainly changed, for the better, in the past 7 years!

What are your current and future training goals?

The Open starts soon. I’ll be competing in the “all others” category (again) this year. I’m hoping to at least make it to the second round, as I did in 2017 and 2018. But starting to see and feel the age setting in!

What is your favorite activity or lift, e.g., pull-ups, dead-lifts, running, front squats, snatches, burpees, etc.?

No single favorite activity/lift stands out. However, I think I enjoy decremental chippers, like The Grinch. They seem to provide some sense of ‘hope’ as you move on. Incremental chippers mess with my mind!

What is your least favorite activity or lift?

Muscle Ups of any kind. They’ve been so elusive, but I WILL beat them! And when I do, they may become one of my favorites!

What PR are you most proud of achieving and why?

My last one. It’s been so long, I don’t remember what it was, or when. But I’m sure I was quite pleased.
I seriously need to reset my PRs to this decade. Most of my PRs were in 2017-2019. So, just getting close to a 4-year old PR is mildly satisfying!

The 22 Mile American Tobacco Trail Ruck took about 8 hours, but provided a real sense of accomplishment. We’re doing it again in February, come join us!

What do you enjoy more, strength or conditioning and why?

I’m trying to focus on both, but probably leaning more towards conditioning. Being able to keep my breathing and heart rate under control leads to better all around performance in nearly everything. I used to run a lot more, although I dislike running. If I sign up for a Tuna Run 200 (have done 3), Ragnar Trail (3 also) or Half-Marathons (ran 3 and rucked 3) that usually motivates me to somewhat prepare, though never as well as I should. In addition to the upcoming ATT Ruck, I have signed up to ruck the Tobacco Road Half in March. It’s only 13 miles, should be fine!

Favorite food(s)?

Chicago Deep Pan Pizza; most Mexican foods, Pho; and most anything Janet and Ashlyn prepare!

What are 3 fun facts about yourself?

1. I live with 2 incredible CFL-2 coaches! As such, I receive free coaching advise fairly often (which I appreciate)!
2. I just recently hit the point where I have been retired from the Air Force as long as I served (23 years for both).
3. In March of 2016, I required emergency surgery to address an obstructed intestine. It was the most intense pain I’d ever experienced! The surgeon told me being in the shape I was in (after two years of CrossFit) was directly responsible for my ability to not only survive a life-changing corrective procedure, but possibly not making it at all. A lot of people rightfully claim CrossFit changed their lives. I am living proof of that!