Congratulations to John Downs, May Athlete of The Month! Let’s get to know John a little better with some questions below.

When and how did you get started with us?

I started about 3.5 years ago…in the old box. One of my buddies owned a box in Portland, Maine and wouldn’t shut up about CrossFit. Gia was going to CFS and convinced me to try it. I used to be a noon guy…then 6:30…and we’ve been gradually taking over the 5:30am class with our special brand of humor. 

What is your biggest accomplishment since joining CFS?

Probably just a dramatic increase in overall fitness. CrossFit is such a cool way to push boundaries and accomplish things that seem impossible. I am way stronger and faster (in sprints) now than I have ever been as an adult. 

What is your favorite work out?

A workout of hang power cleans, bar muscle ups, rope climbs. Then just throw in max height box jumps…that would be fun!  But just one round…for quality!

What is your advice to new folks?

CrossFit doesn’t hurt people…unchecked egos, forgotten wrenches and bad coaches hurt people. Push hard in everything but be realistic, and always ask if you’re not sure…coaches and fellow athletes are here to help!

What would be your dream vacation?

Tough to say…we’ve been lucky to take a bunch of great trips. Maybe a combo trip back to Paris and Florence. Or Fiji if my travel companions would commit!

If you could be a super hero who would it be and why?

I’m not really a big super hero guy but I did rock the Aquaman “underoos” when I was little so I’ll go with that!

What is your favorite holiday and why?

I love them all…anytime I can cook and we can put 25-30 people around a table for a meal, I’m happy. The people make the holiday!

If you were in a karaoke contest to win a million dollars what song would you sing?

Round 1 – Humpty Dance (Digital Underground)

Round 2 – Summertime (DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince)

Finals for the win –  Ice Ice Baby (Vanilla Ice)

What is something most people would not know about you?

You mean more than my karaoke choices above???  I was a recurring character on a soap opera for six years  (1976 to 1982) when I was little. Oh…and my only CrossFit injury was while BUILDING the rig!  PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT – Don’t leave wrenches on top of a ladder and then attempt to move the ladder.