January Athlete of the Month – Melissa Kemp

  1. Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from? What do you do for a living? 

I was born and raised here in northern Virginia.  I went to high school in Manassas and after graduation I moved to Charlottesville for college.  I graduated from Nursing school and spent a little time in Roanoke and eventually moved to Purcellville almost 13 years ago.  Iā€™ve done lots of different types of nursing.  Currently I work in a surgical trauma intensive care unit.  Iā€™m engaged and I have a daughter, Avery, who is also a member of Catoctin.

  • What brought you into Catoctin CrossFit? What made you want to stay? 

I was looking to add something different into my workout routine and I wasnā€™t sure where to start.  I knew nothing about CrossFit, but I saw one of the gym ads, and Catoctinā€™s reputation was unmatched, so I figured I would try it out.  A few of the reasons I stay are the coaches and camaraderie.  I felt welcomed and supported right off the bat. Iā€™m so glad to have found a gym near me!

  • What are some of the changes youā€™ve experienced since starting at Catoctin CrossFit that were unexpected (new friends, goals, social events, etc.)? 

I did not ever expect to compete in a CrossFit competition.  Summer solstice was a really great experience that I will definitely do it again.  The other unexpected change has been expanding my friend group as an adult.  You know that be hard to do when youā€™re in your forties! haha

  • What was your first day at CCF like and what motivates you to keep coming back to Catoctin CrossFit.

The hardest part of my first day was walking into the gym.  I was so nervous to try something new and worried that I would suck at it.  I love that with each workout I get to challenge myself physically and mentally.

5. Tell us some of your recent accomplishments. What goals do you have for this year? 

In the gym, Iā€™ve recently PRā€™d on my snatch, clean, and thruster.  Professionally, I passed my Trauma Certified nursing exam.  Goals for this year, put down the electronics and read more books.  I also really want to work on my strict pull up and toes to bar.

6. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about trying a class at Catoctin CrossFit? 

Do it!  Itā€™s the most efficient way to work out.  You get your cardio and strength all in one go.  The coaches and members will keep you coming back. 

7. What is something that CrossFit has taught you about yourself and how has it made your life better? 

CrossFit reminded me that I can do hard things.  It is addictive to see yourself do something you once thought was impossible.

8. Do you have a favorite workout? What movements does your favorite workout include? 

I think my favorite workouts include any type of cleans and rowing.Ā  Although I am really enjoying working on my snatch and overhead squat.

9.Ā  What has been your favorite non-CrossFit program or event at Catoctin CrossFit that you’ve attended?Ā 

My favorite Catoctin CrossFit event is probably competing in the Summer Solstice competition.  It was challenging and fun. I couldnā€™t have asked for better teammates and energy was so positive.

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