Geoffrey has been an consistent client since he joined us in September 2018. His dogged consistency and dedication paid off big-time on November 15, 2019. He finally earned his 2345 sticker!
Geoffrey’s last obstacle was an elusive 500 pound deadlift (227 kg). We watched him attempt this lift several times in 2019. He attempted, and missed, it at the 2019 Fall Classic. Then he showed up every single Friday thereafter and attempted it again. It took 3 more weeks and lots of shouting by everyone present. We were all rooting for him and we were all ecstatic when he locked it out. Way to go Geoffrey!
Tell us a little about yourself…
I’m 33 and work in data science. My wife is fellow CS&C lifter Cynthia Simmons, and we live in Lincoln Park with our three cats and a dog.
What was your exercise history before joining CS&C?
I grew up playing hockey. I lifted weights in college, but in the usual way that was a waste of time. During my mid and late 20’s I attempted the Starting Strength linear progression a few times, usually quitting after a few months when it got hard or I got bored. About four years ago I decided that once I started again I wouldn’t stop, and have only missed one training session in the past four years.
How did you end up at CS&C?
I had taken my linear progression reasonably far, but suspected my form could use some coaching work. An online search turned up CS&C and I did an Intro Barbell Clinic with Coach David to get his feedback on my form.
What are your current personal bests and where did you start?
Before (kg)
- Squat: 175×5
- Bench: 112×5
- Deadlift: 175×5
- Press: 80×5
Current (kg)
- Squat: 213 kg
- Bench: 143 kg
- Deadlift: 227 kg
- Press: 103 kg
What is your favorite lift and why?
The squat, because it’s as much a mental activity as it is physical. Grinding out your fourth hard rep, knowing you’re going back in the hole to do it again… your brain will tell you can’t, but you’ve learned it’s lying to you. It’s a unique experience.
How has barbell training made a difference in your life?
CS&C immediately helped me drive progress where I had begun to stall, and that has continued to this day. It’s hard to overstate the impact barbell training has had on my life, particularly competing in strengthlifting meets. Voluntary hardship gives you a valuable perspective on your life.
What would you say to someone who is unsure about starting to barbell train?
Lead by example. I was already lifting when Cynthia first mentioned wanting to start exercising, so I suggested she come with and give barbell training a chance. It clicked for her too, and I think it helped her get going that I was always going to train three days a week. It became a shared activity for us to enjoy.
What does “happy, healthy, strong” mean to you?
It’s all about the PR’s and watching “heavy” weight become your warmups.
What would you do and where would you go if time / money were no object?
I’d be outside, fishing, hiking, and camping with Cynthia. We’d definitely be lifting, too.
What adventures, events, trips, competitions do you have planned?
My next meet will be the Spring Classic in April, and I already feel like that’s not enough time to train.
What are your goals?
A 500lb squat would be pretty cool!
What is one thing that most people don’t know about you?
Cynthia and I trained the day we got married.
Words to live by
“It doesn’t matter how you feel about it.” – Coach Karl. Whether a lift feels hard or easy has no bearing on your progress. So show up and do your reps.
