You can’t afford to miss out on this one, guys.  Jerry is one truly amazing human and he’s very graciously dropping some bombs of wisdom upon you that just might change your outlook on health, fitness, and life.  Please, read on to get to know the awesome, Jerry Rutgers.

What do you do for a living?

I am an Architectural Designer and Project Manager for a commercial construction company.

What do you enjoy doing outside of the gym?

Anything with my kids!

What made you decide to try Progression Fitness?

After my divorce in 2014, I realized that I had been neglecting me for the past 20 years.  Some good friends’ wives were signed up for the CFP Bootcamp 1.0.  My friends encouraged me to get off my a** and try it.

How long have you been at Progression?

Bootcamp 1.0 was January 2015, so just over 2 years.

What was your experience with fitness like prior to joining Progression Fitness?

I was in track and wrestling in high school and college.  I was a very sporadic exerciser ever since.  Pretty much nothing for the 10 years prior to Progression.  I was never concerned about weight and had no concept of fueling my body instead of eating to eat.

What was your biggest fear when you started?

That I’d become part of the “cult of Crossfit”.

Favorite cheat meal?

That would have to be pasta/cheese/bread, not necessarily in that order!

What goal(s) are you currently chasing?

Current goal is actually just to make it in at least 3 times a week.

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

Physical limitations are the hardest part.  No ACL in one knee and a nerve challenge in my right arm keep me from advancing as much as I’d like.  It’s a constant reminder that I’m not in my 20’s anymore.

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

Some people might be surprised to know that I have 6 kids.

What’s your favorite piece of advice you’ve received from a Coach or member at Progression Fitness?

Coach Michael said something one day like, “each day that you don’t do a squat, you are one day closer to not being able to”.  That has actually gotten me out of bed a few mornings.  Having almost the same effect is this one… “leave your ego at the door”.

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

I look at health and fitness quite a bit differently now.  I see it as necessity for thriving in life instead of just surviving.  Even spiritual and mental health are balanced out and improved by physical health.

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

Bootcamp was awesome.  I met so many great people.  I did the Open that first year and they all cheered me on.  What was really cool though was seeing how many people from that Bootcamp are still at Progression and did Open workouts at FNL this year and I was able to cheer for them.  We have a lot of rock stars at Progression!

Why do you think you’ve stuck with Progression?

I think I’ve stuck with Progression because of the people and the Coaches, (shout out to 5:30am crew).  I’ve never been someone who could show up at a gym and just work out.  Having the accountability to show up, the encouragement to keep going when you think you might die and a different, amazing, and challenging programmed workout each time you come in keeps me coming back for more.

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

The only person you should ever compare yourself to is the you from yesterday!  Are YOU better or different today than YOU were yesterday?  No one else matters.