Coach of Merit: Mark Heys

A force to be reckoned with when it comes to training hard, Coach Mark compliments this passion with an approachable and patient coaching style that is all his own. Check out more about him below!

Choose a celebrity to be quarantined with?

Arnold Schwarzenegger - he was my childhood hero.

What do you love most about CrossFit Merit?

The community - I have met so many amazing, different people at CF Merit.

What are you currently working on in your fitness journey?

Getting stronger - my engine is good but I could use more strength.

Describe what gets you through the toughest workouts.

Breaking workouts into small enough segments that I don’t get overwhelmed. When I go to Colorado, I run up a mountain my friend lives on, I literally look up and think “run to that tree” once I get there, I think “ok now run to that rock in the distance” and a couple hours later, I’m at the top.

How do you find the motivation on days you just “can’t” ?

I tell myself to just go through the motions and then once I am going, I find that I am doing much more than that.

Why CrossFit Merit?

Why CrossFit - Constantly varied functional movements means that workouts are different every day and modified so that every athlete gets an amazing workout for their skill and fitness level. It is never boring.

Why CrossFit Merit - The community and coaches are awesome and the focus on group warm-upsand group mobility in each class differentiates us.

What is some advice you have for someone on the fence about joining?

The community is welcoming and it does not matter your level of fitness. Give it a try, you will love it.

Pizza or tacos?

Pizza

If you were stranded on a deserted island…what swim stroke would you use to find land?

Breast stroke - swimming is a definite weakness.

What are your coaching strengths? What do you bring to the table?

It has taken me years to get my form reasonable and mobility to the point where it doesn’t limit me too much, so I understand how others struggle and can give advise from a perspective of [someone who has] been there. Also, I am older, so if I can do it, anyone can.

Which do you prefer: dumbbells or kettlebells?

Dumbbells - so many more movements available

What’s one movement you struggle with?

Double unders - I can do them but they destroy my energy.

Which do you prefer: burpees or running? Why?

Love them both - both provide the mental challenge of just keeping going while your mind is telling you to stop.

Thanks, Mark! You can catch Coach Mark coaching our live at-home workouts throughout the week!