Early Life and Background of Alec Smith
Born on September 16, 1992, in the United States, Alec Smith has not only made a name for himself in the CrossFit world but has also established a significant presence as an advocate and role model within the LGBTQ+ community. Before venturing into CrossFit, Alec spent eight years participating in competitive gymnastics, which laid a solid foundation for his future athletic endeavors. This early experience in gymnastics is evident in his exceptional gymnastic skills, a hallmark of his CrossFit performances.
Alec Smith’s CrossFit Journey
Alec Smith’s journey in CrossFit began in 2013, quickly rising through the ranks to become an elite competitor. His background in gymnastics translated seamlessly into CrossFit, allowing him to excel in competitions with his impressive combination of strength and athleticism. Known for his barrier-smashing performances, Alec has been a consistent fan favorite. Despite facing injuries and setbacks, his resilience and determination have seen him bounce back stronger each time. Additionally, Alec Smith joined PRVN Fitness, aligning himself with other elite athletes under the guidance of Shane Orr, indicating his continuous pursuit of excellence and growth in the sport.
Competitive Achievements of Alec Smith
Alec Smith’s competitive record is impressive, with notable performances in individual and team events at the CrossFit Games. His competitive highlights include finishing 19th in the Team division in 2023 and securing a 2nd place finish in the Team category in 2019. He also achieved a 25th place in the Men’s division in 2018 and a 36th place finish in his debut year, 2017. These achievements are a testament to his skill, hard work, and dedication to CrossFit.
Personal Life of Alec Smith
Off the competition floor, Alec Smith is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights within the sporting community. Coming out as gay in 2019 through an emotional video to his Instagram followers, Alec has shared his journey of self-acceptance and the challenges he faced in reconciling his identity with his professional life. His courage to live openly and authentically has made him a powerful figure for inclusivity in sports. Moreover, Alec’s personal life took a joyous turn when he got engaged to his partner, Riley Hedstrom, in 2022, celebrating his engagement with the CrossFit community and beyond.
Training Insights and Philosophy
Alec Smith is not just known for his competitive achievements but also for his contribution to training methodologies within the CrossFit community. Offering a variety of effective training tips and challenges, Alec encourages athletes to incorporate gymnastic skills into their routines to improve overall performance in CrossFit. His training tips highlight the importance of consistency, versatility, and embracing one’s unique strengths to overcome challenges, both in and out of the gym.
Alec Smith continues to inspire with his athletic achievements, advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in CrossFit. His journey is a testament to the power of embracing one’s true self while striving for excellence in one’s passions.
