VIKTOR LUCIFEROVICH
I was motivated to join CrossFit Central after trying a Hyrox preparation class (now known as Hybrid) in October/November 2022 when my friends brought me to the gym. I loved it from the very first workout because much of it took place outdoors, allowing me to breathe fresh air while enjoying a sense of community. Although I was a newbie and out of shape, I found joy in activities like pushing sleds, skiing, and rowing. It was my first introduction to ERG machines, and my friends also introduced me to the Hyrox fitness race, which I participated in during November 2022. It was a grueling yet unforgettable experience. Over time, I kept thinking about the gym and how much it interested me. I wanted to improve at Hyrox, learn lifts like deadlifts and back squats, and get better overall. Finally, in February 2024, I decided to join CrossFit Central.
Before joining, I felt a strong need for physical change. I had some fat to lose and very low endurance due to my weight. While I don’t recall much about my mental and emotional state, I know I was ready to work hard and had a fire in me that still burns strong.
Since joining, I’ve seen incredible results, both visually and on paper. In late January 2024, my body weight was around 235.2 lbs (106.6 kg) with 21.1% body fat and 107.1 lbs of muscle mass. By September 19th, I had lost 29 lbs, reduced my body fat to 13.4%, and maintained most of my muscle mass despite losing water weight. By November 21st, I had reduced my body fat to 12.1%, maintained a 29-lb weight loss, and regained some muscle mass, now at 104.7 lbs. This transformation has made me faster, stronger, and capable of doing strict pull-ups—going from barely managing 1-1.5 to completing 3 sets of 5.
I’ve also improved my performance in Hyrox and Deka competitions. My Hyrox Men Open times have improved dramatically, from 2 hours 21 minutes (including an 11-minute penalty) in November 2022 to 1 hour 30 minutes 17 seconds in November 2024. My Deka Strong time decreased from 22 minutes in March 2024 to 17 minutes in September 2024, while my Deka Mile improved from 33 minutes to 28 minutes in the same timeframe.
Beyond the physical results, I feel a lot more confident—not just during workouts but in all aspects of life. Transforming my body and getting into better shape has boosted my self-esteem while keeping me humble. I’ve also developed a desire to inspire and motivate others to work out, train hard, and improve themselves, regardless of whether they compete in events like Hyrox or Deka. Sharing my journey and celebrating others’ progress feels like a big win.
I want to thank Coach Allison for teaching the right mindset, Coach Carey for celebrating my results, Donnie Walker for motivating me to push harder, Coach Zach for his attention to technique, my mom and friend Alex for their encouragement, and all my gym friends for their support and camaraderie.