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May 2026 Athlete Of The Month
Congratulations to our May Athlete of the Month, Rasaan! Rasaan has been a consistent, hard-working, and positive presence since day one. He shows up, puts his head down, and gets to work—always coachable, willing to learn, and never looking for attention or excuses. His progress is a testament to his consistency and determination, and the way he approaches training is truly admirable. Well deserved, Rasaan!
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August 17, 2026
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Name: Rasaan Guidry
Age: 45
Occupation: Public Health Investigator
What brought you to Baltimore? I’d been out of a solid routine for a while and could feel it catching up with me—energy was down, joints were stiff, and I just didn’t feel as strong as I used to. I knew I needed something structured but also motivating, not just wandering around a regular gym.
How long have you been a member at Baltimore Built? 2 months
Were you athletic or involved in sports when growing up? If so, what sports and or activities did you participate in? Yes, I participated in track&field in high school.
Were you working out regularly prior to joining Baltimore Built? If so, what were you doing? I’d say I was working out, just not in any kind of consistent or structured way. I’d have stretches where I was pretty motivated—getting into the gym a few times a week, maybe doing some cardio or light lifting—but then life would get busy, or I’d tweak something, and I’d fall off for a couple weeks at a time.
Why do you workout? At this point in my life, it’s about staying capable. I’m not chasing my 25-year-old self anymore—I just want to feel strong, move well, and have the energy to keep up with life. I’ve realized that if I don’t make time for my health now, I’ll pay for it later. Working out also clears my head—it’s one of the few times in the day that’s just mine.
What is your favorite lift or movement and why? I’ve really come to appreciate the deadlift. It’s simple, but it makes me feel strong in a very real, functional way. There’s something satisfying about picking heavy weight off the ground—it reminds me that strength is still there, even if it takes a little longer to build back up now.
What is your favorite workout or type of workout and why? I like workouts that mix strength with a bit of conditioning—nothing crazy long, but something that pushes me. A solid EMOM or interval-style workout hits that sweet spot. I get the intensity without feeling completely wiped out for days, which matters more at 45 than it used to.
What have you accomplished as an athlete (big or small) during your time at Baltimore Built? Honestly, just being consistent again is a big win for me. Getting back under the bar after time away wasn’t easy, and there were definitely moments where I questioned it. Hitting my first unbroken set of pull-ups again and rebuilding my squat to something respectable felt huge. It’s not about PRs like it used to be—it’s about proving to myself I can still do hard things.
What fitness goals do you have for the next year? I want to stay injury-free while continuing to build strength—especially in my squat and overhead work. I’d also like to improve my conditioning so workouts don’t feel like survival mode. If I can string together a full year of consistent training, move better, and maybe hit a few small PRs along the way, I’ll consider that a success.
How has your fitness influenced and/or impacted your life outside of the gym? It’s made a noticeable difference. I’ve got more energy, I sleep better, and I’m a lot less stressed. I’m also more present with my family because I don’t feel run down all the time. Mentally, it’s been huge—it reminds me that progress is still possible, no matter your age, as long as you’re willing to put in the work.
What hobbies and activities do you enjoy outside of the gym? Spending time with my kids.
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