October Spotlight: Kristine

1. How long have you been a member at CFD, and what made you want to get started?

I’ve been a member for 5 months. Hillary Baker, a longtime CFD member, first told me about CrossFit and I thought it sounded fun but also very intense and intimidating, so I was hesitant to actually try it. I’ve struggled a lot with depression and fatigue since my son was born 5 years ago. I tried many different diets, supplements, medications, and therapies but wasn’t getting the results I wanted. I wondered if a more rigorous exercise routine would make a difference and finally worked up the courage to try CrossFit.

2. What changes have you seen in yourself since your very first day?

I feel stronger in so many ways. My right shoulder, which I’ve injured several times, is now pain-free and much more stable. I have better posture. I can better keep up with and have fun with my five year old. I have more energy and stamina for horseback riding, which is a lifelong passion of mine. Also, there’s been a boost in my self-confidence through learning what my body is actually capable of and knowing how much I can lift and move without anyone’s help.

3. What did you do for fitness prior to CFD, and what do you like most about CrossFit?

Mainly yoga, walking and horseback riding. What I love about CrossFit is that I don’t have to think about my workout—I just show up and do the WOD and the coaches are always around to help me do it right. In just 60 minutes I get a workout in that is definitely impacting my overall fitness. I also love that I’m learning new skills that are useful in everyday life.

4. What type(s) of workouts are your favorite?

Anything that reminds me of how strong and agile I felt as a kid … rope climbing, box jumps, pull-ups (haven’t gotten those back quite yet, but I’m definitely on my way!). Along similar lines, I enjoy team workouts, games, and anytime rest is built into the workout 😉

I also appreciate the workouts that have a deeper meaning, like the workout honoring the 343 emergency responders who died on 9/11.

5. What type(s) of workouts do you least like to see come up?

I generally dread anything that’s “for time” because I’m always last to finish!

6. What are you goals going forward?

I’m so new at CrossFit it’s hard to come up with anything specific … for now I just want to keep getting stronger and improving my form. Oh, and mastering some skills like pull-ups and double-unders would be nice.

7. What advice do you have for someone just starting out at CFD?

Getting started is hard, but please don’t let that stop you. There’s a lot to learn and you’ll probably be very sore after the workouts. Now would be a good time to check in with your tolerance for humility and vulnerability cause you’re going to experience a lot of it! Take it slow and be patient with yourself. The hard work is totally worth it!

Not a member? Sign up for an Intro Class today!  The next Intro class takes place on October 6th at 10:00, and Foundations starts the next week (October 9th).
RSVP to the free Intro Class here!