Outside the Box: Getting to Know Nick and Rita

Getting Started

After moving to the Evansville area, Nick and Rita tried a few different gyms but never quite found the motivation to stick with one. Almost two years later, they decided to give CrossFit High Bar a shot. Safe to say, it was a great fit!

For Nick and Rita, one of the things they love most about CrossFit is that it is a great way to get fitter while actually having fun and enjoying the process. 

“The workouts are definitely challenging, but they are also rewarding and never boring.”

Rita says, “For me personally, I love the variety and balance in the workouts, and especially that they can be modified to fit your abilities while still pushing you to improve.”

What Keeps Them Coming Back

When it comes to what makes High Bar special, their answer was simple: the people.

“From day one, we felt like we were part of the CFHB community. Everyone cheers each other on, pushes you when you need it, and celebrates the wins– no matter how big or small. That sense of community is what makes High Bar so special and keeps us coming back.”

One of Rita's biggest accomplishments has been learning the kipping swing and finally getting her first pull up. For Nick, his biggest accomplishment has been going from not being able to perform a proper kipping swing to knocking out pull ups, chest-to-bar, rope climbs, and handstand push ups. 

When asked what their main motivation has been in staying consistent at the gym, Nick says, "Making it onto the MVP list each month has definitely been a great motivation for me. Beyond that, just feeling myself getting fitter and stronger week after week keeps me coming back. Even with the soreness after a tough workout, there's something about that feeling of progress that becomes a little addictive."

Rita claims, "For me, it's the ability to constantly challenge myself and get a little better with every workout. Getting fitter, getting stronger, and being able to life a little heavier, even if it's just by a pound, is a huge motivation."

Life Outside the Gym

Nick and Rita are both engineers by background and work for the same company, Hydro Aluminum Metals, in the corporate division. They work remotely, which gives them more flexibility to enjoy life outside of work.

“Outside of the gym, nothing beats spending quality time with our two golden fur babies, Auzzie and Rio. We also love to travel, explore different parts of the world, learn about different cultures, and spend time in nature hiking, observing wildlife, and enjoying the outdoors.”

Their travel list is pretty extensive, as they have visited all 7 continents and crossed both the Arctic and Antarctic Circles. Nick has also been to 47 of the U.S. states, while Rita has been to 44 states. Traveling and exploring the world is clearly a big part of who they are, and their adventurous spirit carries over into the gym as well.

More Than Just a Gym

Nick and Rita came to High Bar looking for a way to get back into a consistent gym routine. They stayed because they found a community and discovered new strengths. Progress looks different for everyone, and sometimes, finding the right people to do it with makes all the difference.