Age: 42
Occupation: National Marketing Manager, Flora Health
Which class time do you usually attend? 6:30 pm.
How long have you been CrossFitting? 4+ years
How did you find CrossFit i1uvit? My son had basketball practice in the building across from i1uvit and as I sat waiting for him, I'd see classes going on and decided to give it a try. I went to a free Saturday morning class and was hooked.
What is your athletic/fitness background (if applicable): In high school I participated in track and was a cheerleader (that's a sport right?). In 2010, I trained for my first half marathon and got hooked on trail running. Since then, I've run a few more half marathons, a 25k, and a 30k. At some point, I really want to run a 50k.
Favorite WOD: I love a nice long chipper and any WOD that has running in it.
Favorite lift or movement: Burpees all day long!
Least favorite WOD. Anything with wall balls or snatches.
Least favorite lift or movement: Wall balls
Favorite quote: "We don't grow when things are easy. We grow when we face challenges."
Favorite “guilty pleasure” food: I love pizza & chocolate.
How has CrossFit changed your life, lifestyle, and/or level of fitness? CrossFit has definitely improved my level of fitness and given me a new appreciation for my body and what it is capable of. Plus, I think it is one of the best stress relievers out there. WODs are usually so intense, you can't think of anything else but the next rep or movement - I need that.
Who or what motivates/inspires you to keep coming back? "Always go with the choice that scares you the most, because that is the one that is going to help you grow." - Caroline Myss - Seriously, the first couple of years I was totally scared before each WOD - they seemed impossible and yet somehow I was able to get through them. That is what I love about CrossFit - it is slightly terrifying and yet so rewarding. You can see your progress and you get to celebrate the progress of others around you. Doesn't get better than that.
What is your proudest CrossFit achievement? When I competed in my first “Throwdown” - it was scaled, but still way outside of my comfort zone!
Name one goal you are working for and would like to achieve through CrossFit? I'd love to get butterfly pull ups and string my toes to bar together again.
Hobbies/Interests outside of CrossFit? I spend most of my time running my four kids around - but I honestly love watching them play the sports they love....everything from soccer, to basketball, to baseball! I try to squeeze in a run whenever I can..
Any advice for new members? Keep coming back even if it terrifies you!
Any additional thoughts/shout-outs/comments: Thanks to all of the coaches who consistently push me beyond my comfort zone. Whether it is Coach Kaylee adding weight to my bar while I am out on a run during a WOD or Coach Pat who took away a plate during hand stand push-ups without me realizing it - I know they have my best interest at heart. I love the community (especially the 6:30 pm crew) and the constant challenge that CrossFit presents. I still get nervous for a WOD, but over the years I've learned to give myself a break - not every day is a PR day, and sometimes it is just about showing up. Thanks to everyone who makes i1uvit what it is!