My name is Tyler Woods. I’m 31 years old and I live in Mays Chapel, MD. I currently work as an IT Manager/Specialist for a Department of Defense contractor. I found CrossFit back in 2018 when I was looking for alternatives to that of a conventional gym experience. I grew up with the sport of wrestling and wanted to find a similar active outlet that was high intensity for which I could consistently stick with. Needless to say, I haven’t looked back since.
What led you to try CrossFit?
My brother recommended giving it a try, specifically at Titan CrossFit! He had dropped in previously a few times at Titan’s former facility when he was in town and had nothing but positive reviews. After taking my first class, I was instantly hooked.
Why do you continue to CrossFit?
Initially, I enjoyed CrossFit because I could always count on getting a solid workout in while also not having to think about what I was going to do once I entered the gym in the first place. Eventually, it became more about how awesome the CrossFit community was as a whole (shoutout to Dirty 6:30!) and that I was gradually becoming a part of it. Either way, I always leave the gym in a much better state, both physically and mentally.
Describe how your attitude towards health and fitness has evolved since you began your journey
Once I started CrossFit, I realized obtaining optimal health and fitness doesn’t happen overnight. It is not a sprint, but a lifetime marathon. More importantly, I’ve learned that exercising in general should be a fun experience. In other words, I don’t feel like I need to be at the gym, but rather I choose to be there. CrossFit has become an important part of my daily routine as such.
Share a memorable CrossFit moment that makes you laugh or puts a smile on your face
For the longest time, double-unders were my arch nemesis. For whatever reason, I could never seem to get those to click my first few years at Titan. Then, Open WOD 22.3 happened. At the time, I had been using the same cheap jump rope I started CrossFit with, barely being able to string 2 double-unders at a time. My judge for the workout lent me his speed rope, noticing that I was clearly struggling with that portion of the WOD. Surely enough, I strung 30 double-unders in a row right before time expired. I didn’t complete the workout, but I had finally accomplished what I thought I couldn’t. It was certainly a memorable moment and a reminder that hard work truly does pay off, even when you least expect it…well that and using a quality jump rope has its benefits.
What are you proud of and why?
I think I am most proud of how far I’ve progressed over the years, especially with particular movements. I’ve always found that the CrossFit Open competition has been a great avenue to showcase just that. I can clearly tell that I’ve improved from the year before just based on where I’m at in the global leaderboards, moving as far up as 10,000 spots from the year prior! In general, I think it is incredible to see what I can do now compared to what I was able to do when I first started CrossFit and I look forward to seeing what the future holds.
What’s your advice for other CrossFitters or people looking to start?
Everyone has started somewhere at some point in their CrossFit journey. Do not be intimidated by others and their progress. They, alongside the coaches, know what it’s like being new and will be there to support you every step of the way. Be patient, be consistent, and, most importantly, have fun with it.
Why the coaches chose Tyler as Titan of the month
Tyler is a Titan that shows up without complaint. He’s always open to coaches’ suggestions. He’s humble about his progress in CrossFit. Tyler gives 100% when he comes. He recognizes that 100% doesn’t mean driving yourself into the ground. It means pushing yourself to reasonable limits that are a little outside your comfort zone. As much as Tyler listens, he is also willing to help out a fellow Titan by lending suggestions when they’re in need. His quiet perseverance has not gone unnoticed. Here’s to you Tyler Woods, the first Titan of the month in 2024!
