1. Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from? What do you do for a living?
Born and raised in Germany. Moved to the US in 2008 and loving it.
The times I pretend to work, I try to do the impossible and teach/certify german teachers (special ed & adaptive PE).
2. What brought you in to Catoctin CrossFit? What made you want to stay?
I saw a crazy facebook ad and totally fell for it. Submitted the form. Who knew these ads were real and Coach Zach would call me within one minute of submitting said form???
He convinced me to commit to come in a few days later… so I did.
I stayed during the first week because of Coach Jason promising me that I’d like it … ok more because of the loud classic rock music and the group format – and the desperate need to become stronger for running better and be able to do one push up some day. I had been looking for a gym near me and am so glad I found this CrossFit in Purcellville, they’re different than all the rest!
3. What are some of the changes you’ve experienced since starting at Catoctin CrossFit that were unexpected (new friends, goals, social events, etc.)?
Beyond the obvious, I’m getting stronger and have less back pain, my blood work improved, my mind changed from “this is impossible for me” to “there must be a way of getting there, just show me how”.
I found some new hiking and running buddies – yay!
4. What was your first day at CCF like and what motivates you to keep coming back to Catoctin CrossFit.
I was intimidated to walk in, thought I’d die during the warm up and was completely confused by the hieroglyphs on the board. I tried winging it – then they added the clock beeping all the time.
To say I was exhausted and overwhelmed would be the understatement of the year.
Weird thing, I liked it crazy much anyways! Thanks to the coaches and people around me.
I wanted to feel challenged and exhausted but supported like that again. Coaches as well as members brought me back – so loveably crazy and encouraging. No matter who or what, everyone always finds a way to make me feel like I belong and can do it.
5. Tell us some of your recent accomplishments. What goals do you have for this year?
First ever double under this week! Got up the rope several times, can do a push up. Survived the summer solstice event. Finished Berlin Marathon despite ACL issues.
Goal for the rest of this year is to make it to 3-4 workouts a week consistently during treatment. And someday I will get to do a pull up!
6. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about trying a class at Catoctin CrossFit?
Dare to walk in!
No matter which Coach you’ll meet the first day, they will make it work for you! They’ll meet you where you are and accept you without judgement! They will push you out of your comfort zone within your limits! Be careful though, it’s addictive.
7. What is something that CrossFit has taught you about yourself and how has it made your life better?
I’m not competitive – or so I thought. Apparently I hate to give up. And I like weights – still weird to write that.
It helps on a daily basis from carrying big stuff easier (think chicken food or cement bags) to being more patient with my family/husband.
8. Do you have a favorite workout? What movements does your favorite workout include?
Murph – it was grinding and horrible. Moves I hate the most made it the best workout somehow.
Rowing, bench press and deadlift is what I enjoy… and lately burpees are becoming a new favorite but PLEASE don’t tell the coaches.
9. What has been your favorite non-CrossFit program or event at Catoctin CrossFit that you’ve attended?
Night of the living deadlift because of the ladies I went with, I mean, they got me into a costume and wearing full golden make up. Will definitely need to attend more events next year though.
