- Sep 11, 2013
Core strength was the key
After almost a decade of competitive running and a series of minor injuries, I knew that I needed to increase my core strength. I started with Yucaipa CrossFit in early 2013 and after just a month of WODs I noticed my training paces increase significantly. Within 2 months I was consistently running my routine training courses at almost 30 seconds per mile faster.
Although I was quite surprised with this new found speed, Coach Sean wasn’t as he had seen these type of results before. I was able to test whether adding CrossFit to my training schedule would translate into faster marathon times in Boston in April.
Personal records are not a thing of the past
After 20 marathons including 5 previous Bostons, I assumed that setting personal records was a thing of the past. Not so. With less than 3 months of CrossFit, I ran my fastest marathon in 3:06. Since CrossFit was the only difference from previous races, I knew it made the difference.
Doug on Yucaipa CrossFit
What were you doing for fitness before Crossfit?
For the last 2 years I have trained for marathons for 
part of the year and weight trained during the summer using the P90X program.
What brought you to CrossFit?
I was fortunate to be asked to host the soft opening of Yucaipa Crossfit in my barn in early 2013.
Tell us about your experience at YCF?
I have felt at home at YCF since the first day. All of the movements were new to me, but the coaching is great. I feel challenged by every workout with coaches providing support and encouragment all along.
What is your favorite YCF memory?
It would have to be finishing the Murph memorial workout solo. 1 mile run, 100 pull ups, 200 pushups, 300 air squats, 1 mile run.
What is your biggest area of performance?
I feel I have improved in so many areas, but probably the most improvement is in pull ups. I needed a band for a week or so when I started and can now do more than 25 kipping pull ups in a row.
What is your next goal?
To Rx Olympic Lifting WODs and unbroken double unders.
What is your favorite WOD/movement?
Favorite WOD is called "Murphy". Favorite movement is burpees. Just kidding. Box jumps.
What movements/WODs are your least favorite?
Anything involving overhead squats. My contortionist skills are sorely lacking.
Anything else you would like to share?
I feel I am in the best shape of my life and would encourage anyone wanting to get fit to join Yucaipa Crossfit.