MY STORY - A Brief Introduction
Ulrich Preisinger • January 27, 2025
MY STORY - A BRIEF INTRODUCTION
I typically write posts on a range of fascinating subjects, but today I've decided to focus on introducing myself and sharing a bit about who I am.
I hold many roles beyond being a CrossFit Affiliate owner. I am a husband, father, grandfather, entrepreneur, real estate agent, athlete, adventurer, and veteran who proudly served Canada.
I was born in a charming and modest village in Germany, situated close to Munich and the stunning Bavarian Alps, where my parents ran a small farm. At the age of 12, my family made the decision to relocate to Canada and purchase a larger farm. Essentially, I grew up on a farm and developed a deep love for rural life.
Being the third of four children in my family, my older brother took over the farm, leaving me to explore other options. I yearned for adventure, and the military was the only path that came to mind. While the military offered a variety of impressive trades, I sought excitement, so I requested Infantry, Armour, and Field Engineer for my top three choices. One day, I received a call from a recruiter who informed me of an opening in Armour. I gladly accepted and headed to CFB Cornwallis in November 1982. The reality set in quickly, just ten minutes after my arrival, as instructors shouted orders and instilled a sense of fear in the recruits. It’s incredible how transformative ten weeks of recruit training can be and forging friendships that last a lifetime.
After completing my Armour training and Leopard Gunnery training at CFB Gagetown, I received my first posting, which was considered the ultimate posting in the Canadian military: CFB Lahr, West Germany. While many Army bases are situated in remote, isolated areas, CFB Lahr is nestled at the edge of the Black Forest, abundant in history, culture, delicious food, wine, beer, and friendly locals. Life was wonderful; the Germans celebrate a festival for just about anything, and the Canadian soldiers stationed there enjoyed a vibrant social life, always finding something exciting to do. It was also in Lahr where I met my wife, and this year, we will be celebrating our 41st wedding anniversary.
I have always had a passion for sports. As a child in Germany, I played soccer on a local team, and for us, any opportunity to kick a ball was embraced—whether during recess, after school, or any free moment. So, when I arrived in Canada and soccer was played at school, I quickly became the top choice for teams. My athletic journey continued in the military, where I engaged in various sports. Back in the early 80s, gym workouts and weight training were not yet mainstream, as bodybuilding was still emerging, and many were unsure how to use weights. You could say I was among the pioneers in weight training within the military. I also participated in more traditional sports like running, track and field, rucking, and ball hockey.
In the late 80s, triathlon began to gain popularity, capturing my interest as a new challenge that I wanted to pursue alongside my weight training. Fast forward to 2011, when ultra marathons started to trend, and more races with longer distances became available. Initially, I doubted my ability to run such vast distances, thinking it was beyond me. However, seeing others accomplish it made me reconsider. I signed up for my first ultra marathon, the Dirty Girls, and I was instantly hooked. Since then, I've completed eight more ultra marathons and numerous half Ultra’s.
In 2013, I noticed CrossFit videos appearing on YouTube, igniting my interest in this exciting and challenging new sport. I realized that CrossFit was the perfect fit for me. I joined a local CrossFit gym, feeling somewhat intimidated since most of the members were half my age, and I was already in my 50s at the time. However, that feeling quickly dissipated as I've been engaged in sports throughout my life, and CrossFit pushed me to become fitter than ever.
In 2017, a neighbor who was an Elite category Spartan Racer persistently encouraged me to try Spartan Races. Initially, I was hesitant because I didn't really understand what a Spartan Race entailed, aside from it being a race with obstacles. Eventually, I gave in and found myself loving the challenge and resilience required to complete these races. Since then, I have participated in 29 Spartan Races, including six of the Beast (21K) distance, with two of those taking place in the stunning Austrian Alps. What an incredible adventure this has been!
In the early months of the pandemic in 2020, our local CrossFit gym unfortunately went out of business. My son, who was seeking to expand his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) gym, decided to take over the lease of the CrossFit facility. We then divided the space to accommodate both BJJ and CrossFit within the same unit. I strongly believed that CrossFit and its mission were too vital for our community to be lost to the pandemic, so I took the leap to establish my own affiliate, CrossFit Quinte, during this challenging time. Although many thought it was a crazy decision given the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, I believe that with determination and a clear vision of your goals, you can achieve almost anything if you remain focused and persistent.
In 1993, I was assigned to CFB Trenton, where I served with both the 2 Air Movement Squadron and the 429 Squadron. I spent five thrilling years as a Load Master, logging nearly 2,600 flying hours on the C130 Hercules, contributing to numerous UN and NATO missions, and visiting over 40 countries.
After leaving the military, I chose to remain in Trenton. My children were reluctant to relocate and change schools, as they had established friendships here. Additionally, I was actively involved in community activities, such as coaching soccer for many years. Consequently, I decided to embark on a career in residential real estate, focusing on serving the military community.
I would like to conclude and share some valuable life lessons. Don't get caught up in trying to fit in; you were created to shine. There is only one version of you, so embrace your authentic self—everyone else is already taken. Imagination is where creation begins. Visualize what you desire and then believe in its truth. Every dream can be achieved by those who possess the self-discipline to believe in it. The only real limitations are those we place upon ourselves. Time is the essence of life; you can't save time, so live fully in the present. Don't rob your future self. Every choice you make either detracts from or adds to your future. Consider your future self when making decisions and taking actions, as they will shape who you become.
Inspiration provided by: Rick Preisinger Owner of CrossFit Quinte and a proud Veteran
99 Dufferin Ave Trenton Ontario Canada
Choosing a CrossFit gym over traditional gyms comes with several unique advantages that set it apart from competitors. Firstly, CrossFit offers a sense of community and camaraderie that is often lacking in conventional gyms. Members support and motivate each other, creating an encouraging and inclusive environment. Secondly, CrossFit workouts are highly varied and designed to improve overall fitness, combining elements of weightlifting, cardio, and bodyweight exercises to challenge the entire body. Thirdly, the focus on functional fitness in CrossFit helps improve everyday movements, making daily activities easier and reducing the risk of injury. Fourthly, CrossFit gyms often provide personalized coaching and attention, with experienced trainers who can tailor workouts to individual needs and goals. Finally, choosing CrossFit over traditional gyms can lead to a more enriching and fulfilling fitness journey, characterized by community, variety, functional fitness, personalized coaching, and personal growth. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a newcomer to exercise, CrossFit provides a supportive environment where you can thrive and reach your fullest potential. Inspiration provided by: Coach Rick CrossFit Quinte 99 Dufferin Ave Trenton, ON
Joining a CrossFit gym can seem intimidating, especially if you're new to the world of fitness or unfamiliar with the CrossFit culture. However, by adopting a few strategies, you can overcome this apprehension and make the most of your experience. Firstly, remember that everyone starts somewhere, and CrossFit communities are known for their supportive and inclusive nature. Reach out to the gym beforehand to learn about beginner-friendly classes or introductory programs that can ease you into the routine. It's also helpful to set realistic goals and focus on personal progress rather than comparison with others. Engaging with the community by introducing yourself and participating in social events can further help you feel more comfortable. Lastly, keep an open mind and embrace the learning process, understanding that it's okay to ask questions and seek guidance from trainers. With time, you'll likely find that the initial intimidation fades, replaced by a sense of camaraderie and achievement. If you're interested in CrossFit, let's connect! Schedule a complimentary Intro to CrossFit Quinte in person or arrange a phone conversation to explore the best options tailored for you! Inspiration provided by Coach Rick CrossFit Quinte 99 Dufferin Ave Unit K Trenton ON Canada
What would you do differently if you could live your life over again? Reflecting on what you might do differently if given the chance to live your life over again can be a profound exercise in self-awareness and growth. Many people might choose to prioritize meaningful relationships, focusing more on nurturing bonds with family and friends, as these connections often bring the greatest joy and fulfillment. You might also consider investing in experiences rather than material possessions, as memories and personal growth can be more rewarding than fleeting material satisfaction. What would I postpone next time around if I could live my life over again? In terms of postponements, one may decide to delay major life decisions until one feels truly ready, such as career choices or starting a family, allowing yourself more time to explore and understand your passions and goals. Additionally, taking the time to travel and explore different cultures when younger could be a priority, as these experiences can broaden your perspective and enrich your life in countless ways. Ultimately, the decision is deeply personal and reflects your unique values and aspirations. Live life fully without limits. Living life fully without limits is about embracing each moment with enthusiasm and an open heart. It involves stepping out of your comfort zone to explore new experiences, whether they are big adventures or small everyday joys. This mindset encourages you to pursue your passions relentlessly, without the fear of failure holding you back. It also means cultivating a positive outlook, fostering meaningful relationships, and being present in every situation. By doing so, you not only enrich your own life but also inspire those around you. Ultimately, living without limits is about finding balance between ambition and contentment, and cherishing the journey as much as the destination. Don’t buy into the limiting beliefs others place upon you. Choosing not to buy into other people's limiting beliefs is a powerful step toward personal growth and self-empowerment. Limiting beliefs are often rooted in fear, insecurity, or past experiences, and they can be projected onto us by others, whether intentionally or unintentionally. By recognizing these beliefs as separate from your own reality, you open yourself up to a world of possibilities and potential. It's important to cultivate self-awareness and confidence, allowing you to discern which beliefs serve your personal development and which ones hold you back. Surrounding yourself with positive influences and seeking out supportive communities can further reinforce your commitment to pursuing your true capabilities, free from the constraints of others' doubts or fears. Remember, your path is uniquely yours, and believing in your own potential is the first step toward achieving your dreams. Be yourself, your true authentic self. Feeling unable to be yourself can be a challenging and isolating experience. It's important to acknowledge that everyone deserves the freedom to express their authentic self without fear of judgment or rejection. Often, societal pressures, expectations from others, or even internal doubts can stifle our true identities. To overcome this, start by identifying what truly matters to you and what makes you feel most like yourself. Surrounding yourself with supportive people who encourage your individuality can also make a significant difference. Remember, embracing who you are is a journey, and it's okay to take small steps towards self-discovery and acceptance. You have the right to live a life that reflects your true self, and seeking open, honest conversations with those around you can be a powerful way to begin this process. Get into world class physical condition, don’t delay health. Achieving world-class physical condition and health requires a holistic approach that combines consistent exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate rest, and mental well-being. Begin by setting clear, realistic fitness goals tailored to your current level and desired outcome. Incorporate a mix of cardiovascular, strength, flexibility, and endurance training into your routine such as CrossFit. Nutrition plays a crucial role, so focus on a diet rich in whole foods, including lean proteins, healthy fats, and a variety of fruits and vegetables to fuel your body efficiently. Stay hydrated and pay attention to portion sizes to maintain a healthy balance. Rest and recovery are equally important, so prioritize quality sleep and allow time for muscles to repair and grow. Additionally, manage stress through mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga. There is never a better time to live your life than today. The notion that there is never a better time to live your life than today serves as a powerful reminder to embrace the present moment with gratitude and purpose. Often, people find themselves trapped in the cycle of waiting for the "perfect" time to pursue their dreams or make significant changes, only to realize that such a time may never come. By focusing on today, we allow ourselves to seize opportunities, learn from experiences, and cultivate happiness in the here and now. This mindset encourages us to let go of past regrets and future anxieties, fostering a more mindful and fulfilling life. Every day is a chance to take steps toward personal growth, connect with loved ones, and make a positive impact on the world around us, reinforcing the idea that the present is indeed a gift. Inspiration provided by Coach Rick CrossFit Quinte 99 Dufferin Ave Trenton Ontario
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99 Dufferin Avenue, Trenton, Ontario K8V 5E2, Canada
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6-9 am, 12-1 pm, 4-7pm
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