Congratulations to Ian Macdonald, our November member of the month! IMac is a loyal member of our evening classes. He explores the mysteries of the universe by studying and teaching physics and theology, and he’s a cryptocurrency enthusiast as well. Learn more about him below!

• What are your hobbies/interests/talents outside of the gym?

I really enjoy teaching and learning, especially physics, theology, and tech. I’m a high school physics teacher, I’m working part time towards a Masters in Theological Studies, and I participate in educational roles in cryptocurrency and theology spaces. When unwinding, I enjoy reading, story-focused video games, and sudoku.

• Share with us one thing that most people do NOT know about you?

People are usually surprised to learn that I did competitive Slam Poetry in high school and college. I’m usually a quiet guy, but I have no problem standing in front of a crowd and yelling for 3 minutes.

• How long have you been with us at Viking Athletics?

A little over 2 years.

• Take us back to your first week here. How did you feel? Remember the workout?

“What did I sign myself up for?” was definitely a thought. In my first workout, the strength was front squat, and while I don’t remember the Metcon, I remember the coach reminding me twice that “this is for time!” after I took some leisurely breaks to first tie my shoe and then to slowly sip water between rounds. One of the sorest weeks of my life for sure.

• What moment/achievement are you most proud of at Viking Athletics?

The first time maxing clean, I didn’t think I would be able to get 185, but I tried it anyway. I spent literally 5 seconds slowly fighting to get out of the squat, but I hit it! Emma was coaching and said it was one of the most epic lifts she had ever seen. I honestly don’t think I would have hit 186.

• Design your perfect workout?

Rowing for an hour. Maybe throw in Power Cleans and Rope Climbs for variety.

• What is your least favorite movement?

Front squats, but squats are terrible in general because I have the flexibility of a metal rod.

• Summarize your lifestyle in 5 words or less.

Make a positive impact

• Have you experienced any changes in your lifestyle since joining Viking Athletics?

I’ve definitely become more invested in my health, both diet and exercise. I think I’ve seen that mental sharpness and physical health are tied together, so being my best physically correlates with being my best mentally.

• What advice do you have for anyone who is thinking about joining or who has recently joined?

Stick with it! There’s a big learning curve (and a lot of soreness) at the start, but you will soon see and feel progress. And don’t be afraid of feedback on form! It takes a while to learn the lifts, and there’s always room for improvement (even for someone two years in), but it’s worth it. Better form not only prevents injury, it helps you lift more weight.