Mitch is a retired Army Special Forces soldier and graduate student at CU studying Journalism. He exercises daily and takes a break when his body says it’s time. He commits to at least one Rec Center class a week and of all the classes he’s joined, the Rec Bootcamp classes are his favorite — not surprising for a former soldier and current Spartan Race athlete.

To stay motivated, Mitch constantly reminds himself to try to be a fitness role model for others and find new ways to challenge himself athletically. Even if new challenges result in finishes far from the podium. A few years ago he took up the sport of winter biathlon and finished nearly last. Mitch says it keeps him humble and motived. He’s had recent success in obstacle course races like the Spartan Race, finishing near the top of his age group and appearing in the NBC Spartan: Ultimate Team Challenge show this summer.

Mitch recommends becoming a more active Buff by eating right before and after exercise, and finding a gym partner to help keep you motivated and accountable to your workouts. Mitch’s proudest fitness accomplishments derive from using his health to help others reach and exceed their physical limits.

Look for him at the Rec this year if you want to talk obstacle course racing and training.