Kevin Manuel first started CrossFit in his rugby off-season in 2010. 5 years later he qualified in the face of fierce competition from a 250,000 strong contingent of CrossFitters globally, all trying to make their way to the World CrossFit Games.

Kevin not only competed in the games, but he was named the 17th fittest man in the world. 3 years earlier his leg had been run over by a 14 tonne excavator...

We wanted to find out what it takes to be the best, and how did he make such an incredible comeback? So we asked Kevin a few questions...

1) What attracted you to CrossFit initially and how did you get started?

"I started crossfit as a way to get fit for my rugby season. Then I loved it so much that I stopped playing rugby and started competing at CrossFit"

2) You had a major injury, how did you work around this, and how did you keep a positive frame of mind about moving forward and getting back in the game?

"In 2012 my right leg was run over by a 14 tonne excavator and last year (2016) I had a tear in my patella tendon in my left knee. Both times were very tough to get through, but if you use it as a learning experience and as motivation, you can always get through it. If you surround yourself with a great support crew and if you stay positive you can get through anything. There is always someone worse off so there is no reason to complain"

3) Whats your favourite Crossfit workout and why?

Amanda is my favourite workout. 9-7-5 squat snatches and muscle ups.
I'm not sure why. I think because it's fast and I like both of those movements.

4) Does/ or has anything ever scared you in your workouts/comps, and if so, how do you get around that?

"I wouldn't say scared, but I would be lying if I said I wasn't nervous before each competition. I love that feeling though. I love the nerves, I use them to get me through. I think I'm slightly addicted to the feeling of competition. The crowd, the competitors, the adrenalin. I just love it"

5) What would your three top pieces of advice be to Crossfitters just starting out?

"I would advise them to take their time. Learn how to move correctly. It will help to stay injury free and help with staying healthy.
Stretch a lot. It's very important to stay mobile and flexible.
And make sure you do it for the right reasons. Make sure you live what you do, and make sure that you stay in a positive mind set. There are plenty of ups and downs, but if you love it, it's always easy to get through".

Here at Active Nation we're honoured and privileged to support and work along side Kevin for his mobility, recovery and performance needs through BLACKROLL, and help ensure total foot comfort with Wrightsock.