Scott Peeples
Scott Peeples, 27, Senior VP for peerFit.com a Group Fitness Engagement Company, Gainesville, Florida
Why do you lift weights? I lift weights because I think body, mind, and spirit all work better together. So, I’m looking for balance and personal growth. Part of being alive is being able to push your limits. I want to be constantly improving and exercise is a very visible part of that.
How long have you been lifting weights? I started lifting in high school.
Do you compete in weight lifting? I try to only compete with myself.
Most challenging aspect of lifting weights: It’s always a challenge to increase my weight while still keeping good form and being able to accept where I am in terms of performance.
Scott (left) and his pal Ed after a CrossFit workout
Most fun aspect of lifting weights: The most fun part is the high after a good session and feeling my sore muscles repairing themselves over the next few days.
Most rewarding aspect of lifting weights: The occasional comments from people who have noticed the difference in my appearance and performance.
Who/what inspires you when you’re feeling weak? My weak days are part of me just as much as my strong days. In some ways I’m more impressed with being able to push myself when I’m weak than when I’m feeling strong and motivated. My muscles might burn more when I’m feeling strong, but my heart has to burn hotter when I’m feeling weak.
Advice for others who’d like to get started: Form is everything. Even without weights, just performing the motion with controlled breathing and technique has value. You are your own competition, don’t worry about anyone else.
Your must-have equipment for lifting weights: I like using lifting gloves. I’m a musician so keeping my hands from getting too callused is important. I think it helps get your mind right too.
Favorite training song: I don’t usually listen to music when I lift, but I do like anything by Mariana’s Trench.
Favorite healthy food: I’ve been really enjoying a gluten and nutritional yeast food called seitan. It’s super high in protein and low in fat.
Favorite not-so-healthy food: Steak is my favorite occasional treat. I know a lot of lifters are big on it, but the cholesterol and fat just aren’t worth it.
Funniest /weirdest/most awkward experience lifting weights: I broke my elbow skiing when I was 21, so my right tricep has been a little tricky ever since. One time my right arm gave out during a bench press and it tilted the bar so much the plates fell off one side of the bar, then because the bar was so off balance it flipped and the plates fell off the other side too. Falling 45lbs plates are not quiet. At least I gave the rest of the folks at the gym a smile, or maybe just a smirk.
