Discover the story of Christophe Ungar, science journalist at RTS, who shares his journey with humor and sincerity, from his first Spartan Race to his discovery of CrossFit at GVA. An authentic account that reflects the spirit of our community: surpassing your limits, humility and mutual support.
When hundreds of penalty burpees lead you to Crossfit GVA.
Morgane, my 11-year-old daughter: "Can I go with Mum to Verbier this weekend? Some of my friends have signed up for the Spartan Kids. The Spartan Kids what? Google search... Ah, but I'm tempted too, even if it looks like the annual reunion of nostalgic recruits.
For organizational reasons, and in order to encourage my daughter on time on her course, I had only one option: the "Beast" format, in "age groups". In short, the longest format, with the best. 23km, 1600D+ and 30 obstacles in the hope of finishing on time. Quite a feat for a first-timer...
Fortunately, I was a trail runner and, at 46, I was in good shape. So running was bearable... but some obstacles were simply impossible. I had a runner's physique: everything down, nothing up! And in a Spartan, when you fail an obstacle, it's 30 burpees. Not 29, 30! Result: more than 300 burpees during a four-hour mountain run. A sinecure...
It's because of all these muscles I didn't even know existed until I felt them for days on end, that I started CrossFit. To balance the top and the bottom. I'll admit it too: the physiques of the first three men and three women in the "Beast" format resembled statues of Greek deities in the Acropolis of Athens. Hashtag jealousy.
Some friends I'd known during my teenage years were involved in the creation of Crossfit GVA, one of whose boxes is located just a few hundred meters from my workplace. It was the perfect opportunity, even if I was a bit prejudiced this time too. "CrossFit is something for Rambo and Rocky, pulling truck tires and lifting tree trunks!" Stupid hasthag. I liked watching the cartoon with Johny Bravo, but only to make fun of it.
I was wrong again. I've discovered workouts that are accessible to all, thoughtful, varied and complete. Motivating, attentive, almost never sadistic coaches. Natural movements, simple but quality equipment, no mirrors for Narcissus. The ego stays at the door, as it says on the door. Members are of all ages, some very athletic, others not at all. Everyone trains together and helps each other out. Far from the militaristic clichés, everyone can find their place to simply stay in shape or become "better" than yesterday.
Now I'd have to sign up for another Spartan race to feel the difference. But I'm waiting for my daughter to motivate me - the right excuse. And in the meantime, thank you Jon, Maeva, Paul, and all the others. You're great and effective catalysts for change. Cheers!
