Member Of The Month – April 2025
Our April MOTM award goes to Chris Sutton – Aka Sutty!
Sutty is one of our regular morning class attendees and although many might see him as a reserved guy, he has quiet determination, grit and mental toughness and he is also more talented than he realises. He has been working really hard on all his skills, and his gymnastics have come on so much – he has mega technique. In addition, his lifting is strong. He is also super friendly with everyone, loves chatting to people after class, encouraging everyone and getting involved in the team aspects of things. We decided he was member of the month and then he went off for a short while due to having his second child – so when he came back he was congratulated on being Dad to child number two AND was surprised with being our latest MOTM! So it’s been an emotional rollercoaster for Sutty! 😉 Not sure which should be celebrated more to be honest… 😉 Have a read on to find out more about his CrossFit journey so far…
M – How long have you been doing CrossFit?
CS – I started CrossFit in May 2021—so nearly four years ago now. I’ve always competed in sport, but after retiring from rugby when my first daughter, Elsie, was born in 2020, I needed something to keep me fit and scratch that competitive itch.
Like many people, I stumbled across CrossFit through the Games documentaries on Netflix. The 2014 Games was my gateway: Rich Froning, Josh Bridges, a young Matt Fraser, Annie Thorisdottir, Kara Saunders… I remember thinking, “That’s badass—I want to be able to do that.” From there, I was hooked. YouTube became my second home as I consumed as much CrossFit content as I could. (Yes, I’m a secret CrossFit nerd, some would say I could rival Paul C ;).)
M– What class time do you usually attend and why does that work for you?
CS – I’m a 6am’er. Part of the early crew—aka the ‘Breakfast Club’.
I love that session. It’s full of brilliant people I’d probably never meet outside the gym. With two young kids and a full-on work life, it’s not easy finding time for you – so I plan my week ahead and lock my gym sessions in as my first non-negotiable. A standing promise to myself before everything else starts pulling me in different directions.
That hour in the morning is sacred. No distractions. Just me, the whiteboard, and whatever is programmed. Starting my day that way gives me energy—and I show up better as a partner, dad, friend, and colleague because of it.
I don’t make it to as many Saturdays as I’d like, but I love a good team workout. It takes me back to my rugby days. That said, some members swear I secretly enjoy putting them in the cave. No comment.
M– What is your why? Why do you put yourself through it each day? Do you have goals you want to achieve?
CS – It’s changed over time.
At first, it was all about performance—pushing myself, mastering the skills, competing. But now, as a dad of two, my goals have shifted. It’s about health, longevity, and being strong for the long haul. I want to be fit and thriving in my 80s and beyond.
I want to set a good example for my kids, too. Elsie, who’s five, already wants to join in my workouts, hike, run and bike with me. That’s a big win.
Movement has always been medicine for me. It helps me handle whatever life throws my way. But let’s be honest—I still love competing. That fire’s still there, and maybe one day, it’ll be centre stage again.
Looking ahead, I’d love to test myself as a Masters athlete and take on bigger comps here in the UK—maybe even overseas. With 40 approaching fast, I’ve also got my eye on a marathon after being inspired by members doing the Manchester race. And I’ve dipped a toe into HYROX class or two… so if anyone’s up for a pairs race, you know where to find me.
M– What advice would you give anyone wanting to start CrossFit but is either unsure or nervous? We get people all the time saying they need to get fit first or they could never do what we do? Any advice for those people?
CS – Just start. There’ll never be a perfect moment. You might never feel “ready.” But you won’t know until you try. My only regret? Not walking through the door sooner.
M Squared is more than a gym. It’s a community—friendly faces, no egos, just people trying to better themselves. Workouts can be scaled to suit any level, so you’ll never be out of place. Everyone’s working hard, side by side.
Yes, it’s tough. But there’s something powerful about shared suffering. You struggle, sweat, and survive – together. That’s where the magic is.
M What is your biggest achievement so far in CrossFit and what are you most proud of?
CS – Two things come to mind.
First, the person I’ve become outside the gym. CrossFit tests you. There are mornings when the alarm goes off and you want to roll over. Or workouts that include a movement you hate. But showing up anyway—that builds grit. Over time, those small choices compound. I’ve grown in ways I never expected, both in and outside the gym and I’m proud of that.
Second, I’ve got to mention Rainhill Trials at the NEC. I went in with no expectations and exceeded all of them—including winning the final event. Hearing the MC call my name, feeling that buzz of competition, knowing I’d left it all on the floor—it brought me right back to the thrill of sport all those years before. An unforgettable moment.
One last thing I’m proud of—being nominated for Member of the Month. With so many good people in the gym doing great things, it means a lot just to be recognised – it genuinely caught me off guard.
M – Love this. I think everyone will agree you’ve definitely got grit! And yes, this gym is full of exceptional people! We are very lucky! Well done again Sutty – you fully deserve this award.
