1. How long have you been doing CrossFit – and how did you originally get started?
Originally, I started at CrossFit Second Home in Hombrechtikon to get back into shape after Covid and to bring more structure into my training, as going to a regular gym never really worked for me. After moving to Zug and recovering from a knee injury, I joined CrossFit Zug in December 2024.
Sport has always been part of my life, as I grew up playing basketball and cricket, so movement and competition were never new to me. What drew me to CrossFit was the combination of strength, endurance, and skill, along with having a structured environment that made it easier to stay consistent.
2. What does CrossFit mean to you today?
Today, CrossFit is a mix of training, mental reset, and community for me. It challenges me physically, but it also brings structure to my week and gives me a space to disconnect from work and focus on something completely different.
3. What has changed for you since you started training regularly?
I’ve noticed changes both physically and mentally. Physically, I feel stronger and more resilient. Mentally, it has really helped my focus, especially during workouts where you need to keep track of movements, pacing, and reps while being tired. Learning to stay composed in those moments is something that carries over into everyday life as well.
4. What’s your favorite exercise or element in CrossFit – and why?
It’s hard to pick just one because the variety is what makes CrossFit enjoyable. Lately, I’ve started enjoying barbell movements more, even though I’m still working on the technique. They can be quite challenging, but that’s also what makes them fun.
5. Which exercise should be banned immediately?
Burpees over the bar, burpees over the rower, burpees to the target, burpees broad jumps…basically all burpees 😉
7. Is there a moment in training that has particularly stuck with you?
For me, it’s really the way people support each other during workouts. No matter where you finish, everyone sticks around and cheers until the last person is done. It just makes tough workouts a bit easier and creates a really good atmosphere.
8. How do you integrate CrossFit into your daily life?
I usually make time for training in the evenings or on weekends. After a long day at work, it’s a great way to switch off and reset. During that hour, I’m focused on the workout, which provides a clear mental break from everything else.
9. Do you have a current athletic goal?
Double-unders are definitely high on the list. I’m also working on improving my kipping pull-ups and toes-to-bar. There is always another skill or movement to focus on, which keeps things interesting.
10. What do you do professionally?
Professionally, I work in the Financial Crime Prevention domain, leading a team and focusing on strategic and technology-driven initiatives. The work requires focus, responsibility, and structured thinking, so having training as part of my routine helps create a good balance.
11. What hobbies or passions do you have besides CrossFit?
Sports-wise, I enjoy cycling, hiking, and cross-country skiing — the latter I learned, or rather had to learn, after moving to Switzerland.
I also enjoy cooking and am a Certified Level 1 Wine Expert. In the summer, I like to combine both while enjoying an apéro by the lake.
13. Last year you were dealing with a knee injury. How did CrossFit help you get back in shape?
The injury happened in spring 2024, and I had to take a long break from training. After that, it was really about slowly rebuilding strength, confidence, and stability. It took time, and I had to be patient and focus on small steps rather than trying to rush back.
CrossFit helped a lot in that process. The coaches were very supportive and always adapted movements so I could train safely and still make progress. I’m still a bit careful with things like running, but being able to do box jumps again, which once felt impossible, was a really big milestone for me.
I’m especially grateful to my wife, who pushed me to start again when it wasn’t easy. In the beginning, she kept a close eye on me during workouts to make sure I didn’t overdo it or risk another setback. And to be honest, she still does from time to time 😊
For anyone going through an injury, I’d just say: it’s a phase. If you stay patient and consistent, you’ll come back stronger.
14. You alwaysshow up with a smile — what’s your secret?
I generally try to stay positive, and smiling just comes naturally. Training also helps a lot; it’s a great way to switch off from work and reset. Workouts can be tough, but that’s part of it. I’ve found that how you go into a workout makes a big difference, and starting with a smile usually makes it a bit more enjoyable 😊
