MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: MEET YOUSSEF

On the last day of this month, we are excited to bring you our next Member Spotlight. You can typically find this CrossFit Tay Ho athlete in evening classes, always ready to attack any workout thrown at him. Say Hello to Youssef!

Youssef has had an on and off start to his CrossFit journey, originally beginning back in France six years ago. After some moves to Japan and Vietnam, and a four year hiatus, he started again ten months ago and has no plans to stop!
 
Youssef is a different person than the one who joined CFTH nearly a year ago. He has committed to himself, showed up daily, and even joined the Mission Nutrition Challenge. Because of these habits, he has had quite the transformation, which proves that hard work pays off!
 
Youssef was nominated as a member feature because he embodies what it means to be a CFTH Athlete. He is open and inclusive, making both old and new members feel welcome and part of the community. He shows up consistently and has put in the work to get the results he wants. 
 
CrossFit Tay Ho has not only been beneficial to Youssef’s physical and mental wellness, but his social life as well. The box has been a place where he has gained close friendships and even found romance! 
 
In his own words…

“CrossFit Tay Ho  is a place where you push yourself outside your comfort zone, with great people from all over the world. It’s also the perfect way to end the day and take your mind off work.”

Keep on reading to find out more about Youssef’s favorite parts of CFTH, what he loves about Hanoi, and a secret fact about his dancing past!​

Real Talk with Youssef

As an athlete you are a force to be reckoned with because…
I never quit.

You are working hard to become…
Stronger than Bérenger!
 
Hard to choose just one, but your favorite workout is…
Angie. Because it’s all back to basics.
 
CrossFit has made your life better, here is why…
Because I met amazing people and we help each other achieve our goals.
 
CFTH holds a special place in your heart because…
Stepping inside the box is the best moment of the day.
 
Pick your poison. Run, bike or row?
If the run is with a 25 kg plate and the bike is an assault bike, then row.

​

What are some of your recent accomplishments/aha moments?
Participating in Mission Nutrition Challenge for two months brought some much needed balance in my life. And reaching a 190 kg deadlift was not bad either!
 
What is a goal you want to accomplish?
I would like to improve bodyweight movements such a pistol squats as well as learning more complex gymnastic movements like butterfly pull ups and bar muscle ups. 
 
Favorite CFTH Moment?
The West Lake Invitational brought lots of people from all over Vietnam together, the atmosphere was amazing.
 
Any advice for someone just starting?
Don’t try to be perfect from the start, but focus on small improvements every day.
 
How has your health/fitness/mindset changed since starting CrossFit?
I lost more than 23 kgs and tried to integrate more movement throughout my day, such as cycling and walking. 
 
Have you experienced any other unexpected changes after joining CrossFit?
I met so many amazing friends, and also a wonderful partner who loves me almost as much as she loves CrossFit.

What do you do out there in the real world?
I am an architect and designer.
 
What does a day in the life of Youssef look like, outside of being a CrossFitter?
Playing football, enjoying good food with friends, and going on motorbike trips across Vietnam.
 
What is your favorite thing to do in Hanoi (besides CrossFit)?
Hunting down the best cold brew in the city.
 
Favorite Hanoi Restaurant?
Wow, big question. But, it’s Pizza Belga. 
 
What is a fun fact about you?
I used to be a competitive hip hop dancer!