MAY ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Every month we honor one athlete to recognize as Athlete of the Month. This athlete is someone that our team selects that demonstrates dedication and commitment to our community and program, and holds to our values of doing things with integrity and humility, being inclusive, and hard-working. Our selected member as our 2025 May Athlete of the Month is...

KARTHIK NARAYANASWAMY!

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN DOING CROSSFIT?

I joined CrossFit in May 2024.  Honestly, I had only planned to try it for three months while my family was on summer vacation. But here I am, a year later, and I have no intention of taking a break or leaving this incredible community.

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO COME TO CROSSFIT? WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS?

When I first joined CrossFit, my goal was simple — I just wanted to run a mile. In Dad’s language, I wanted to be able to run alongside my daughter and help her with her bike-learning journey, something I had struggled with myself. But as time passed, I realized this journey wasn’t just about me. Now, I can proudly say that I inspire my kids, family, coworkers and my goal has evolved. It’s no longer just about running — it’s about teaching them the value of a healthy lifestyle and the importance of respecting the incredible bodies they’ve been gifted with. 

WHAT DOES CROSSFIT MEAN TO YOU?

CrossFit is more than fitness — it’s a community that pushes, motivates, and lifts each other up. It challenges us to break limits, step out of our comfort zones, and build confidence to try what once felt impossible.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE TYPES OF WORKOUTS IN CROSSFIT?

Some workouts which I never want to miss - Bench Press, Back Squat, Dips.

COACH JUST GAVE YOU THE CONTROL FOR SPOTIFY – WHAT'S YOUR WORKOUT SONG OF CHOICE?

I’m from the southern part of India, Kollywood tracks are my go-to workout music.

IF YOU COULD WRITE ANY WORKOUT, WHAT WOULD IT BE? FORMAT, REPS, LOAD, ETC.?

 I enjoy the Thursday and Sundays sessions, my workout plan would be:

 EMOM x 30:00 (6 Rounds):

Min 1: 12/10 Row Calorie

Min 2: 45 Double Under

Min 3: 12 Box Jumps

Min 4: 0:45 Plank

Min 5: Rest

HOW HAS CROSSFIT AFFECTED YOUR LIFE OUTSIDE OF THE GYM?

I used to be someone who hesitated to try new things, held back by fear and the embarrassment of failure. But CrossFit Kakou has provided me with a supportive environment where I’ve gained the confidence to step outside my comfort zone. It’s not just about the workouts—it’s the techniques, encouragement, and insights from our coaches that have helped me unlock new potential. I’ve learned to embrace failure as part of the process, and that mindset has extended beyond the gym. Whether it’s at work, at home, or in how I teach my kids, I now understand that I won’t truly know what I’m capable of until I try.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A NEWBIE JOINING CROSSFIT KAKOU?  

If you have heard people say CrossFit causes injuries or it’s only for hardcore weightlifters — to me that’s just a myth. At CrossFit Kakou, you’re in great hands. The coaches are amazing, they really know what they’re doing, and making sure you’re moving safely and confidently. CrossFit isn’t about being the strongest in the room—it’s about learning how your body and mind work together. Stick with it, stay consistent, and you’ll start to love the process. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by awesome athletes and coaches who make every workout something to look forward to.