Each month, we nominate an athlete from our West Vancouver and Vancouver gym who has worked hard to achieve their goals and is a big part of our community.
We thought we’d switch it around so that our athletes can learn more about the awesome coaching team CFBC has to offer!
October’s Featured Coach – Dan “JD” Webster (Coach/Head Programmer)
1) When did you start coaching at CrossFit BC?
August 2010
2) Why did you choose CrossFit?
I liked the idea of training different elements of fitness in one session and after training solo for several years, I really enjoyed the community aspect.
3) What changes in your health, physique and overall performance have you seen since starting CrossFit?
I started at CrossFit BC in 2009 at the tender age of 37. I had worked out since I was 15 and been a personal trainer since 2000. By normal standards, I was in good shape. I pulled 410lbs the first time I tested my deadlift at Crossfit. Not bad but I was squatting under 200lbs and couldn’t even imagine doing muscleups or handstand pushups. Now, at nearly 45, I’ve pulled 530lbs, squatted 405lbs and strict pressed 205lbs. I can go out and run 10k anytime. I have done strict muscleups into strict handstand pushups on rings! Am I bragging? Hell ya! Crossfit is like the fountain of youth. By the way, have you seen my arms?! Boom!
4) What advice would you give to someone with regards to starting CrossFit?
I always tell new members the same thing. Until you get used to the workouts, always leave feeling like you could have done more rather than you did too much.
Patience and consistency will get you the best results. Being in a rush will only lead to injury. You can’t get better if you’re too injured or tired to train. Focus on technique.
Put as much effort into recovery as you do into training.
Try not to be embarrassed. Nobody is going to judge you. The community is supportive and encouraging. If you sweat, puke, fart or pee you pants skipping, don’t worry about. Somebody in class has done that too.
Have fun. Laugh at yourself and with your new friends.
5) What is your favourite CrossFit exercise?
It’s a toss up between deadlifts and Turkish getups…and curls…
6) What is your favourite activity outside of CrossFit?
My wife would tell you it’s sleeping! Honestly, I’d say it’s spending time with family and friends but that’s what I do at Crossfit.
7) What is your proudest accomplishment at CrossFit?
This is a loaded question because every coach will tell you their proudest accomplishment is when they are able to help an athlete achieve a goal. It’s why we do what we do.
8) Have you made any changes to your diet?
Yes. All of them.
9) Is there something that people would be surprised to know about you?
A long time ago, I used to teach people how to walk on fire. Seriously.
10) What/who inspires you the most?
My wife, Kate. She’s one of the top Crossfitters in the world amongst her peers. (I’m not just saying that to try to get lucky!)
My mom. She grew up on a farm. She’s always been strong. She showed me the value of being strong and that women not only can be strong but should be strong.
My 2 strong, smart, beautiful daughters. They love me no matter how bad my jokes or dancing are.