Meet Paul Booker, member since 2015 and our September spotlight!
Member since:
June or July 2015
What do you do for a living?
US Internal Audit Head of People at BBVA
How did you hear about CrossFit and what was your first workout?
We had just moved to Mountain Brook and there was a small sign on the street corner by Publix. I was excited to see something close to the house. Not sure about first workout, but I probably killed it.
How many days do you CrossFit? What classes do you normally attend?
I shoot for three days a week. Usually twice during the week and then Saturday. Always 6:00am.
Favorite CrossFit movement/workout?
Box jumps. Those aren’t too bad and I’ve manage to not eat it yet. Also anything with running.
Least favorite CrossFit movement/workout?
OHS!! @#$^@#$ those things… they are straight from the Devil’s #$%@$%. Wall Balls are a strong runner-up.
What motivates you/keeps you coming back to CrossFit Mudtown?
The encouragement from other members to get better.
Before the 2018 CrossFit Fames, I promised myself that I would complete the workout each week. We get to 18.4 and as discussed above, I have an unfiltered hatred for overhead squats. So I show up at 6:00am and tell Nick Irvin that I will be doing front squats instead. Well, he and Tyler Destefano grab the training bar and start working with me. After ten minutes and countless cuss words, I arrive at what appears to be an OHS. So we start the workout (with Tyler as my judge) and I knock 10 reps out immediately. Elated, I turn to Tyler and say “Oh #$#^, that was awesome!”. He responds “That’s nine.. one no rep.” I still hate him to this day.
The fact is, I walked in the gym that morning fully planned to do a different workout but due to fellow members belief in me (or their love of a true challenge) I was able to accomplish something I didn’t believe possible.
Most embarrassing/funniest gym moment?
Definitely the compliments…people are always saying “Paul, how is your form so perfect?” or “Dude, have you been doing this your whole life?”, but I try to stay humble.
Favorite thing about Birmingham?
Two things – 1) The public schools…if you haven’t lived outside Birmingham, you don’t know how fortunate we are. (I sound really old). 2) All the dessert places. I have a vicious sweet tooth and love all the new cupcake/cookie/milkshake stores
What accomplishment are you most proud of (outside and inside of the gym)?
I spent two years in Belgium with my previous employer. I had never stepped foot in Europe when we walked off the plane. We were able to travel all over and had a blast.
What is your favorite meal?
I’m not a picky eater. Steak (medium rare) and potatoes, with something chocolate for dessert.
What are some of your interests outside of CrossFit?
Fishing and golf. I have two boys (ages 10 and 7) and those are outdoor activities which, luckily, we all enjoy.
What is one goal that you are currently working on?
Handstand pushups. My current goal is to come in on Saturdays and continue practicing. I like Saturday at 9:00am because there aren’t many people there to witness the carnage. Current PR is 0.
Do you have a hidden talent?
I feel my ability to give 70% effort is better than most people.
Tell us a fun/interesting fact not many people know about you.
I’ve skydived over the Swiss Alps. I played blackjack with Dave Grohl in New Orleans.
