In general, what is your background? Age, Occupation?
I’m 36 years old and a Kentucky girl, originally from Louisville! Moved to Virginia almost 2 years by way of Indianapolis but my husband Tim and I have lived in the DC area before (lots of moves!). We have 3 wild little nuggets, who are 8, 6, and 4. I’ve been a stay-at-home parent for almost a decade now and it has been both the best and hardest “job” I’ve ever had. It has humbled me and made me the person I am today. Prior to that I was working for a non-profit in DC but my real passion has always been fitness from the moment I picked up a dumbbell in college. I spent nearly 10 years bodybuilding and running and a handful of years focusing on more functional fitness and HIIT. Eventually I got bored of that and wanted more of a challenge, which led me into CrossFit. It has been the challenge I have needed for sure!
How did you get to know about Catoctin CrossFit and why did you start?
My husband’s old boss used to come to Catoctin and raved about it. When we moved out here I was working out in our home gym but it wasn’t motivating enough for me. I began my search for a gym near me and found Catoctin, I was hooked the moment I walked in. My first class was with Troy and he was so nice and welcoming that I had to come back.
- What has Catoctin CrossFit changed about your life other than a new workout routine?
Everything. I’m the most in shape, strongest, and happiest I’ve ever been in my life. This place has given me a passion and purpose outside of my home life. Also, the amazing lifelong friendships I’ve developed here!
- What motivates you and keep you coming back to Catoctin every day?
My kids. I know they are watching me every day. My 6 year old daughter is now determined to be a crossfitter and that feels really good because it’s especially important to show my girls that you don’t always have to do girly things. That’s pretty powerful for me.
- What advice would you give someone thinking about trying a class at Catoctin CrossFit?
From the outside perspective, CrossFit is intimidating. Even for someone like me with a background in fitness it was intimidating. But you won’t improve your life if you only make choices that feel comfortable. I also strongly believe that if you are going to give it a try this is the place to do it. One of my favorite things about Catoctin is how accepting they are of all ages and fitness levels. That’s not true of all gyms but it is here. You will feel supported by the coaches and members, even if you’ve never picked up a barbell.
- What Goals have you set for yourself in 2021?
To get ONE dang muscle up! I’d also love to conquer butterfly pull-ups. They look fancy.
- Favorite CrossFit moment so far?
Not necessarily a moment but a shift that happened for me since joining- I started at CCF as someone who liked CrossFit but the coaches and community here helped me fall in love with it.Favorite and least favorite type or workout or movement? I LOVE all the gymnastics! Snatches are fun but frustrating. I’ll also be controversial and say I love me some burpees over bar.
If you had to teach a class on one thing, what would it be and why?
Take your time with all things you do and make little goals. This applies to just about everything! Your routine, your strength, and your nutrition. The last thing you want to do is burn yourself out or worse, get hurt. Little changes lead to big changes.
If you could be on a reality TV show, what would it be and why? Definitely a home renovation show on HGTV. I love pretending to be handy.
