Who’s Who: Mario Barajas

Everyone here at the gym knows that Mario is a little crazy and never seems to run out of energy.  But I wanted to let you know there is a softer side to that energizer bunny that you may not know about.

How were you introduced to NorCal Strength and Conditioning?  Luke Winter

Favorite movement/skill you have learned at NorCal:  Being in PAIN!!!!!! (Stretching, Mobility)

I have always wanted:  To meet that one special girl that can KEEP UP with me in all aspects of life. (Might have stumbled upon her)  Thanks for the intro Matt

1 word people use to describe me:  MELLOW

Outside of the gym I like to:  Hang out with the Estates Dr. Crew (Winters, Grahams, and Barajas)   Bringing smiles to complete strangers on a daily basis.

Three things you would ALWAYS find in my fridge:  Unsweetened Almond Breeze, Spinach, and Eggs

Something nobody knows about me or would be surprised to know about me:  I used to be shy. What happened right?

Favorite physical activity outside of NorCal Strength and Conditioning:  Road & Mountain bike riding in plus 100 degree weather.  The most demanding activity is trying to keep up with my amazing nephew’s Clarence & Yasmine

Mario's new favorite activity....

 

Favorite place to eat a Paleo-ish meal in Chico:  El Rey- Molcajete (if you don’t know what this is your missing out)

Song that gets me pumped up for a workout:  Michael Jackson- The Way You Make Me Feel

The last thing you ate:  Pork chops with spinach thanks Katie and Gale for the pork.

Proudest accomplishment:  Realizing I’m so lucky to have such amazing parents.

6 Month goal:  To beat Johnny Rojo at every work out and lift!!!!!

If you could invite ANYBODY (currently alive or not) over for dinner, who would you invite? Why? Mi abuelita / my grandmother

Favorite work out attire:  Do I even need to answer this question?

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Matt

Written by Matt

Matthew Brown has been involved in athletics for most of his life. He developed a huge passion for running at a very young age and ultimately competed for Chico State University in Track and Field for 4 years. After graduation he felt the continued drive to be involved in athletics in some way, and pursued a Masters degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Exercise Physiology. While working on his degree he was actively involved in the Chico State Track and Field program coaching both sprint and middle distance athletes in addition to working with them on their strength programs. His compassion for fitness and people continued to grow even after finishing his degree. He felt there was still room for growth and improvement in his overall knowledge in fitness and found a new home at Norcal Strength and Conditioning. While training at Norcal he found a new way to be competitive in fitness, and that was in the sport of Crossfit. After competing in a few competitions and training at Norcal for a year and a half he decided to pursue an opportunity as a personal trainer. He is excited to be a part of the sense of community and compassion that surrounds NorCal strength and Conditioning. Before Matthew attained his Masters degree in Kinesiology, he obtained his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an option in Management. He has been a supervisor for over 13 years at a large canning and packaging corporation. Working with a variety of people offers many types of challenging situations and Matthew loves to be a part of these experiences. With his long history of involvement in management and athletics, Matthew has the skills, leadership, and enthusiasm to help motivate any person from any walk of life to achieve their fitness goals.

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4 Comments

  1. Mario, I have to admit the first couple of days in On Ramp I thought you were crazy, but after getting to know you it is no longer a thought….it’s a FACT! WIth that said the gym would not be the same without a few crazy people :-) From a coaches stand point I must say Mario is hands down of the most coachable people in our gym and of course fun to have in class. Great work Mario and thanks for keeping Norcal interesting :-)

  2. I would have to agree with Shawn on everything. It has been great having you in the gym! I love it when you get in the grunting rage! It pumps me up!

  3. My favorite memory of Mario is when I was having my usual trouble finishing a WOD and had a 400 meter run to finish, Mario, who was already done, ran with me just to cheer me on.

  4. Johnny Rojo

    I just have to say impressive plank hold! And challenge accepted :{)

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