Athlete Spotlight: Shamik

What made you choose CrossFit True?

From March 2020 until January 2022 I did not do any strength training due to the pandemic. I was mostly biking, running and some outdoor swimming. I definitely felt like I needed to get back to the box for strength which was lacking and I could feel it in daily activities. I was lucky to find CrossFit True!


How long have you been training with us?

9 months 

What has been your proudest moment in the past 90 days?

Deadlifting 305lbs which I have not done in years. It was one of those days that Moe told us to build up slowly to prime the body for heavy weights. It was nice to feel the body responding to heavy load again; I attribute this to exercising patience and going slowly which is not easy. 


When you’re not at the gym, what do you do for work? What do you do for fun?

I’m an orthodontist at Elm Tree Orthodontics in Hamden. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, being outdoors (hiking, biking, running, swimming in natural bodies of water, snowboarding), traveling and learning. 


How is your nutrition? How has it changed since joining CrossFit True?

Balanced and happy. I dabble in some fasting but would like to build up to a 72 hour fast for overall health, discipline and appreciation. Let’s see if and when it happens! 


What are your 3 favorite movements/exercises?

Box jumps, deadlifts, double unders

What is your favorite style workout? (AMRAP, EMOM, Rounds for Time, etc)

Rounds for time but EMOMs are fun too. I like it all. 

What about your favorite workout?

I like workouts with an element of bike/row/ski or running with strength mixed in. I can really feel the lungs burn and know I’m improving my cardiovascular health and work capacity. 

Any favorite workout songs?

Songs featuring Tyga, Meek Mill and Rick Ross are fun to listen to when working out 

Have you changed physically or mentally since you’ve been working out with us?

I’m impressed with all of the athletes regardless of their level. The consistency, work ethic and motivation are inspiring and has helped me push myself mentally and physically. 

What are your current goals?

To do the little things right. Focusing on rehabbing, dialing it back when needed, increase in sleep opportunity. Making good health related decisions minute by minute (ie: standing at work when possible, taking stairs, etc.) which will lead to long term progress and longevity (I think). 

How have your goals changed since you joined?

I’m more focused on longevity and understanding rest, patience and rehabbing. I’d like to do all the activities I like to do for a very long time with my friends and family. 

What has been the biggest surprise since joining CF True?

Hands down the community. The coaches have done an amazing job getting to know each athlete and the support for one another shows. It’s a great place to get a nice sweat and some laughs along the way. 

What can you do now that you couldn’t do before joining?

Gaining stability, strength and self awareness. I am happy and feel encouraged my overall lifts are improving and I can feel it in daily activities.  

Say something else, Anything!

Gratitude for Moe, Mia and Ryan for making us more fit and thank you to the CrossFit True community for being awesome.