July Member of the Month: Ramzi El-Achkar

Posted by Georgia Smith on July 14, 2015 with 0 Comments

Age and Occupation?

54, Franchise co-owner of 12 store-chain GNC stores.

How long have you been doing CrossFit?

54 months! (4 years 6 months)

Why do you CrossFit?

I may not be so young, but CrossFit It makes me feel like a teenager!

I may not be so strong, but CrossFit makes me feel invincible

I may not be the healhiest person, but after a WOD I feel amazingly healthy!

That’s why I CrossFit

What is your favorite movement?

I love squats! I do it well and I believe in maintaining a strong lower body as I age.

What is your least favorite movement?

I don’t like inchworms, and am not very fond of wall-climbs.

Do you follow a particular diet to fuel your training? Favorite foods?

I follow a high protein, low fat, low carb diet. I stay away from Bread, sugar and salt. I use MyFitnessPal app on my phone to log my food intake, and track my daily steps on my phone to make sure I stay active. I try to stay within 1700 calories a day, and aim for 10,000 steps a day.

I love drinking my PMD Lemonade BCAA (Branched Chain Amino) during my Workout. It keeps me hydrated and refueled with electrolytes, B12 and amino. It also keeps me from getting sore afterwards.

I take lots of fish oil supplements, as it helps lubricate my joints and reduce inflammation, Probiotics for digestive health and NDS “Dr Joint” Joint supplement, as well as my GNC Mega Men Daily multivitamin.

Favorite food is fish (salmon), Quinoa, anything with Chia seed, GNC PureEdge Complete Vegan Protein shake with fresh fruits and honey! I use Moto Bars either post workout or as a lunch meal replacement. Raw unsalted Almonds, Cottage Cheese, or a cup of lowfat yogurt are a favorite evening snack.

What are your short term goals?

Reduce my waist line and improve my stamina and endurance.

What are your long term goals?

Maintain my strength as I age, and reduce my body weight (and body fat). That will help keep my blood pressure under control, and reduce wear and tear on my knees and joints.

What is your biggest achievement at CFB?

Completing Murphy under 50 minutes, Dead-lifting 335 lbs (please don’t tell my wife), and best achievement is getting to know all the wonderful people I’ve met at CFB who have inspired me on my wellness jouney.