How did you discover CrossFit?
I was working in the fitness industry for the past 13 years teaching and managing group exercise classes like bodypump, body combat, spinning and yoga. So when I moved to New Zealand in 2018 , I decided to try something entirely different and the only gym in the town I was moving to only offers CrossFit, and the rest is history!
What draws you to DeNovo CrossFit?
When we decided we were moving to Fort Collins, the first thing after looking for a rental house was a CrossFit gym. I saw Denovo and 1 other gym that were close for me to drive, so I decided to email about membership. At that time, Paige replied to me almost instantly.
She was very informative and welcoming and offered a 1 week trial. So when I finally got here in February, I attended the 5am and oh my, it was one of the best first experiences I had and I didn't even bother trying out the other gym and end up signing for a membership the next day! Best decision!
What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment in CrossFit and in life?
Integrating Olympic lifting to my regular training and falling in love with it will be my biggest accomplishment in CrossFit. I was always scared of the barbell, and always limiting my potential in my mind by over-thinking and afraid to fail. But the barbell club community in DeNovo taught me that it is OK to fail and it is only through failing that I get better and stronger and push towards what I am truly capable of.
Till date, being a mum is my biggest accomplishment in life. I still cannot believe I managed to keep 2 tiny humans alive and happy till now!
What athlete/s at DeNovo inspire you to be the best version of yourself each and every day?
Actually everyone as it is very motivating and inspiring to see everyone showing up every time and doing their best. But if I have to choose, I would say Jess! Her determination in the barbell club is something I want to push myself towards. She doesn't give up when she fails her lift and she just keeps grinding every single session to achieve what she plans for that session. And she squats deep and still make it up!
What is your pet peeve?
Hypocrisy. I am an open book and I will tell you exactly how I feel even if the truth hurts. So I expect the same from the others.
What/who inspires you?
My parents. They had very little to spare when my brother and I were growing up but that didn't stop them from giving us everything they had. My parents taught us about relentlessly pursuing our passion in life. They taught me the importance of being genuine, empathetic, grateful and honest and these are the very things I am still trying to work on everyday and hopefully passing these traits to my kids.
Favorite workout song?
Gangster paradise!
What advice would you have for anyone who is nervous to join DeNovo?
There will be no regret. The community is so welcoming, the coaches are very passionate about helping you to achieve whatever goal you have (big or small) and they are always upgrading themselves to be a better coach for their members. Set a goal and DeNovo (coaches and the community) will be there to help and cheer you on.
What do you enjoy doing outside of CrossFit, both for fun and professionally?
I am currently a stay at home mum so I actually do CrossFit for fun and hopefully one day professionally! Apart from that, I enjoy a nice walk or hike with my golden retriever , Twinkle when I have any extra downtime.
If we were sitting here one year from now, what would we be celebrating together?
My first handstand walk hopefully!
Favorite CrossFit movement?
Clean and Jerk, I love love love a jerk.
What are you currently reading?
Tough: Building True Mental, Physical & Emotional Toughness for Success & Fulfillment by Greg Everett. I had been following his Instagram in lifting and I came across a post recommending his book. It is a very interesting read but I am taking a long time as it is very thought provoking in what we normally perceive being tough is. I do hope I get to finish the book soon as I have had this for a month!
What are you thankful for?
I am thankful for everything I currently have in life, and especially my husband. I don't say that enough but he is my rock in my life. He never takes me for granted and he is always supportive, especially emotionally, in the goals I am pursuing. He brings the best out of me as a mum, and especially as a person.
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