The energy in the 5:45 PM class at CrossFit Tundra often gets a boost the moment Dominick walks in. As the Director of Operations at the Alerus Center, his day-to-day is chaotic—a blur of capital projects, logistics, and real-time problem-solving across maintenance, event setup, and housekeeping. He’s always on the move, but despite his active life, he realized he needed a new kind of push.
Dominick’s journey to Tundra began right after the Fourth of July, sparked by a need for direction and a change from his solo routine.
“I’d always been interested in CrossFit, seeing it on social media really sparked my curiosity… I felt like I needed a positive distraction and something that would push me in a new direction. I was already lifting and playing basketball, but it all started to feel repetitive and routine.”
He joined with a key mindset: focus on personal progress. “I came in with the mindset of don’t compare your Day 1 to someone else’s Day 1,000. As a former athlete, my goal has always been to get a little better every day—and eventually you catch up.”
His initial impression of Tundra was defined by the patience of the coaches and the collective support of the 5:45 PM crew. But the moment that truly showed him the Tundra difference was during a Labor Day workout.
“Tina was coaching, and she pushed me to get lower on my squats. I loved it because it showed accountability and that she wasn’t going to let me get away with half-assing it. That’s the kind of coaching that makes you better.”
This focus on consistency and high standards has delivered real-world results. Dominick is most proud of the way his kipping has improved, and how he feels “stronger, more focused, and more motivated” than he has in a long time.
The impact has extended far Beyond the Time Cap and into his life outside the gym.
“My biggest transformation has been in my strength and coordination. Even in basketball, I’m doing things I haven’t been able to do in almost ten years. CrossFit has woken up parts of my game I thought were gone. Mentally, it’s pushed me to refocus on the basics, eating clean, getting real sleep, and taking care of myself. That’s translated into better energy, a clearer mindset, and a stronger sense of routine in every area of my life.”
Dominick is a perfect example of our mission: training for one hour a day to conquer life outside the gym. For anyone considering taking that first step, his advice is direct:
“If you’re nervous or scared, join anyway. Just do it. You won’t regret it. You’ll always feel better after the workout, and everything can be modified to your level. No one is judging you because almost everyone started exactly where you are.”
Thank you, Dominick, for bringing your incredible energy and dedication to the 5:45 PM class every day! We are proud to have you as part of the Tundra Family.