Meet an Athlete of Merit: Kenny's Story
Kenneth Ferrera
Merit Member Since January, 2018
Kenny is a 43 year old retired Army Medic, who now works as a Physician's Assistant in Dermatology. During his military service, Kenny bounced between California, Colorado, North Carolina, and Kansas. He also lived in Germany for 3 years, and deployed in Iraq twice. He grew up in Virginia Beach, but settled in North Beach after his 10 years of service in the Army... and we are so glad he did! Kenny's positive attitude and contagious smile are a great addition to the Merit community. If he could eat two foods for the rest of life it would be sushi and tacos, and if he could pretend to be any age for the rest of his life... it would be 27! Read on to learn more about this world traveler.
Kenny working on cleans during one of the evening classes.
How do you spend your time outside of Merit? I spend most of my time working. I’m a physician assistant across the street from the gym. Even though I work a lot, I do like to travel and hang out with friends. I was in Europe last year for 3 weeks visiting Amsterdam, France, Germany, Spain and Portugal. I’m going to Italy and Barcelona for essentially the month of August this year!
What were your goals when you originally joined Merit? I had gained a lot of weight over the past few months before starting CrossFit. I mostly wanted to get back in shape. I wanted to gain muscle mass, strength, and flexibility.
Have you accomplished any of those goals so far?
Yes, so far things are going great!
“I feel motivated everyday by the Coaches. Being in CrossFit is like having a personal trainer everyday. ”
What is your favorite CrossFit movement/WOD? The 2018 Open was a lot of fun! It was competitive, but fun at the same time. I also like the warmups (that's a first!) and the running workouts (that may also be a first!). Sit-ups and box jumps are great too!
Kenny and Merit members after a CrossFit Open workout.
What is your least favorite CrossFit movement/WOD?
I hate, hate, hate snatches! I’m petrified of hurting my back. Also, the crabwalk during warm ups sucks too!
What is your most memorable CrossFit moment so far?
It's more of an everyday moment... but it’s hilarious to hear the other CrossFitters, myself included, complain about the warmup movements or the workout, then go kill it afterwards!
What/Who is your biggest motivator?
I feel motivated everyday by the Coaches. Being in CrossFit is like having a personal trainer everyday. I feel like I get personal attention every workout, instead of just someone standing over me telling me what to do.
What would you like to say to people on the fence about trying CrossFit?
Just try it once. You’ll get hooked! I was nervous to do it at first but, Jesi talked me into it. I’m really glad I came that first week!