This guy doesn’t really need an introduction.  You probably know him already, and if you don’t you need to.  But one things for sure…you’re not ready for the awesomeness that is Dan Laska.

What do you do for a living?

I am an Inside Sales Specialist for Spectrum Business.

What’s your favorite thing to do outside of the gym?

I play sports (volleyball, softball, basketball, golf).  I also do a lot of camping; whether it’s in the Boundary Waters or at a Music Festival.  I like to hike or trail run with my dog, Izzy, and wife, Natalie.

What made you decide to try Progression?

I was actually trying to lose weight for my wedding.  As a beer connoisseur, I knew Coach Julie from spending a lot of time at Whistle Binkies and asked if she could help me shed a couple pounds.  My original plan was to just do CrossFit for 2 months…

How long have you been at Progression?

Since April of 2014.

What was your experience with fitness like prior to Progression?

I was a runner but basically took 4 years off during college and when I tried to get back into it I ended up with shin splints.  I also had a WOW membership that I never used.

What was your biggest fear when you started at Progression?

Before Progression I never lifted weights.  I actually told Julie I didn’t want to do all the crazy over the head stuff.

Favorite cheat day meal?

I love pizza.

What goal(s) are you currently chasing?

Snatch my body weight.  I’m only 5 pounds off.  Also would like to clean and jerk 200 pounds.

What’s the hardest part about your fitness journey at the moment?

There is always room for more weight on the bar.

What’s one thing your fellow CFP’ers would be surprised to learn about you?

I was born in London, England and lived there for 3 years.

What’s your favorite piece of advice you’ve gotten from a coach at Progression?

Fast, faster, fastest.  Pull a snatch like going down a waterslide.  Move your feet.

How has your outlook on health/fitness changed since joining Progression?

I am more conscious of what I eat and how it affects my performance in the gym.  Also, because of Progression, I have been introduced to other fitness activities that I really enjoy such as participating in Spartan races, trail running, and most recently, an Olympic lifting meet.

What has been your fondest memory during your time at Progression?

During an Oly lifting session a while back I was working my 1 rep max snatch.  Coach Michael was also working on his and during the session we went back and forth setting new PR’s.  It’s really exciting when you hit a PR, (especially a snatch), but when others around you are also doing the same, the energy level is exponential.

Why do you think you’ve stuck with Progression?

The kool-aid tastes really good… but honestly the community is awesome, everyone is so positive… it’s hard to imagine someone not having a good time here.  The coaches are top notch, for someone who came in with ZERO background in any kind of weight lifting, I have been taught the importance of lifting with correct technique so I can safely move up in weight.  Progression has truly made working out easy for me as I really enjoy and look forward to going to the gym.

What would be your one piece of advice for someone who’s just joining Progression?

You don’t have to go to the gym every day to get in shape.  So often people think the only way to lose weight or stay in shape is to always be in the gym.  The programming here is excellent, even if you only make it 3 times a week you will get in better shape.