Name: Masoud Ghohestani
Where did you grow up? I was born in Zahedan, Iran. I am the 7th sibling out of 8! I came to the US, alone, as a freshman in high school. I settled in Lincoln, Nebraska and finished my high school and continued on to University of Nebraska. Yes, I was a Husker before I became a Buckeye.
When did you become a member of the Cornerstone community? I became a member of the Cornerstone community in July of 2019.
What do you do when you are not at Cornerstone? (occupation, hobbies, etc.) I am an optometrist, a husband to a Jamaican Queen, a father of 4, and an athlete. Golfing solo and riding my motorcycle give me peace. Owning and managing a multi-office practice gives me a sense of pride and accomplishment. Playing chess with my 13-year old, and losing every time, keeps me humble. Beating my 15 year old in the number of pull-ups, push-ups, and sit-ups makes me smile.
What is your favorite workout movement? I particularly like back squats and power cleans.
What is your least favorite movement your Coach makes you do? If I could only master the overhead squats and be more comfortable with it, I’d be a happier athlete!
What is your favorite accomplishment since becoming a part of Cornerstone? My physical and mental improvement have been my top accomplishments. I enjoy starting my day with a great workout. It keeps me better focused.
What is something about yourself that we might not know? When I was a student at Ohio State University (‘94-’98), I occasionally caddied at Scioto Country Club. I was blessed to meet and caddy for the late Dave Thomas, the founder of Wendy’s, on a couple of occasions. Typically the caddies would get paid $25 to $35 a round. Dave Thomas was known to give his caddy ‘the coupon’ at the end of the round. That’s what the caddies affectionately called a $100 bill!
What advice would you give to someone just getting started at Cornerstone? This was my very first experience with Crossfit. I asked, watched, practiced, and learned. I resisted the temptation to try to compete with others. Instead, I set my own fitness goals and worked hard to achieve them. It goes without saying, consistency is the foundation of success at Cornerstone fitness.
What goals do you have for the rest of 2020?. I will continue to consistently participate in Cornerstone. My measurable goals are: 300# deadlift and 185# power cleans.
Fill in the Blank I’m #allin Cornerstone because….I wanted to achieve my full potential and use all the resources and the coaching to become the best athlete I can be. I was in an unhealthy pattern of squandering my health, my time, and my personal relationships. Instead, I chose to change that. I was never an athlete in school, but I’ve always considered myself athletic. Cornerstone sparked and renewed that athletic nature in me. I appreciate the coaching, the guidance, and the occasional push. I appreciate Melissa for teaching me the fundamentals and set me up for success in this path. I continue to be humble, teachable, and brave enough to push myself.