October Member of the Month-David Engel

By
Coach Abbie
October 2, 2026
October Member of the Month-David Engel

Client Success Story Questionnaire  

Name:  David Engel

Age: 40

Occupation: Pediatric Perfusionist, you’re probably going to have to Google it ;)

‍

What is your athletic background?  

I played Basketball in high school and in rec leagues through my twenties.

‍

What was your workout routine prior to CF Spero?  

I got a rowing machine in 2020 and got really into that for a while. Other than that just some casual weightlifting and cardio a few days a week.

‍

When did you start CF?

April 2025

‍

Why did you choose CF Spero?  

My wife chose the gym and she thought it would be a good idea to join together.

‍

What keeps you coming back?  

Two things: #1 is the Spero community. I also love that there is always a new strength goal or skill to chase.

‍

Why do you live in the Oak Park area?  

In 2020 we wanted to start a family we were thinking about moving out of the city for a little more space. Oak Park was a perfect transition from our condo in the west loop. Great parks and a good school system were also a must!

‍

What do you do for a living?  

Pediatric Perfusion, basically I run a heart-lung machine in pediatric heart surgery.

‍

How do you like to spend your free time?

Spending time with family, traveling and crossfit.

‍

What are one or two improvements you have seen in your life since starting CrossFit?

Massive improvement in overall fitness, and better mental health.

‍

What are your goals for 2026/2027 ?  

I made a goal this fall to do a sub 50 minute Rx Murph by Memorial Day 2027, so working on that has been pretty fun.

‍

What's your favorite and least favorite movement?  

Favorite - Toes to Bar and Bar muscle ups

Least Favorite - Anything with burpee in it

‍

What's your favorite meal?

A good steak.

‍

What would you say to someone thinking about starting CrossFit?  

Just start showing up. CrossFit is the most fun.

‍

Anything else you would like to share with the Spero family?  

The past 18 months since I started doing CF has been the most fun and the most I've enjoyed exercising ever in my life. I appreciate all the support from all the coaches and the community.

‍

What are three hobbies or things you love to do outside of the gym?  

1. Being active with my family and kids

2. Camping

3. Traveling

‍

Where is one place you would love to visit but haven't been able to yet?

Canary Islands

‍

Continue Reading

pushpress gym management software for boutique gyms and fitness studios