Client Success Story Questionnaire
Name: Andy Kaftan
Age: 44
Occupation: Stay at home Dad
What is your athletic background?
I have been skiing my whole life since I was three, and I picked up telemark skiing at 13. I went to college in Vermont. So I’ve spent a lot of time in the woods hiking, skiing and mountain biking. I would also get outdoors a lot while living in NYC. Since moving to the Midwest I was playing basketball downtown and also picked up hockey in a men’s league.
What was your workout routine prior to CF Spero?
Prior to joint Spero I was working out at the YMCA a couple of times a week. It was convenient because they had daycare for the kids.
When did you start CrossFit/Personal Training?
I started CrossFit in 2015 when Dave moved into the old building. He said I was one of his first new customers. I started personal training with Justin in May 2020 during the pandemic.
Why did you choose CF Spero?
I was playing basketball against twin brothers on another team. Who were between 5’8 and 5’10 and they were killing me. And man could they jump. One of them had a cross-fit shirt on and I asked him about it. When I would drive home from my games I saw Dave’s signage going up on the windows as I was getting off the highway. After the second game against those guys I was like I need to call this CrossFit gym in town or just quit playing basketball.
What keeps you coming back?
I keep coming back because training with Justin has changed my life. Instead of feeling like I’m 44 going on 80, I actually have strength and mobility and energy to do things I enjoy with my family. I feel like I’m 25 again.
Why do you live in the Oak Park Area?
We moved to oak park in 2012 for my wife’s work.
What do you do for a living?
I am a stay at home dad!
How do you like to spend your free time?
I like to spend my free time getting outside. Whether it’s playing golf, riding bikes with my family through the forest preserve in the warmer months, and the winter we get out skiing exploring the little Midwest “mountains” or head out west skiing.
What are one or two improvements you have seen in your life since starting CF?
Definitely increased strength… I think I may have had noodle arms previously. I also am more self confident which I think comes along with that increased strength. I think a stronger mind naturally comes along with a stronger body.
What is the biggest change you have seen since starting Personal Training at Spero?
I move much better. I have less aches and pains. I never get sick and I have significantly more strength and energy!
What are your goals for 2023?
My goal is to be able to do a split like jeanClaude Van damm. We will see if 2023 is the year.
What's your favorite and least favorite movement?
Working on handstands is quite enjoyable. I do know my least favorite movement is running. I hate it.
What's your favorite meal?
Something simple like a steak and a baked potato.
What would you say to someone thinking about starting CrossFit or Personal Training at Spero?
If you want to improve the quality of life do it. Start out with the on ramp and some classes. See what you like and don’t like. And sign up for personal training to improve things you’re weak at. The sky really is the limit.
Anything else you would like to share with the Spero family?
The best part of the Spero family is how welcoming and encouraging everyone is in the gym. Both the staff and members. It really makes a big difference in making the gym more enjoyable.
.png)
