1. How long have you been doing CrossFit? What got you started?
I started up at All Level CrossFit in December 2021 after my dad (Kirk) suggested I try personal training with Coach Steph. I wanted to start training to improve my physical and mental health, both of which had taken a pretty serious hit during Covid. I had limited previous experience with working out, but I was motivated to make fitness a priority in my life. Coach Steph and I focused on cardio, core, and mobility in the beginning. After about 6 months, we started incorporating CrossFit movements like Olympic lifting into my training. I fell in love with the sport and enjoyed the opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and challenge myself. I did my first WOD class in August of 2022. It was super challenging but that only pushed me to train harder. I love the social aspect of WOD classes—the encouragement from my peers and coaches makes a huge difference!
2. What aspect of our core values of authentic, driven, and inclusive do you relate to the most? Why?
The word “authentic” resonates with me because the environment at the gym allows me to be the truest version of myself 100% of the time. The gym is a space where I can let myself be vulnerable without fear of judgement. There have been a lot of ups and downs in my fitness journey and a lot of real emotions that come along with it, but the All Level fam has been there to support me every step of the way!
3. What do you most look forward to when you come to the gym?
When I come to the gym I always look forward to seeing all my buddies! Every time I walk through the door I am always met with the warmest greeting ❤️ I also look forward to doing the WOD and reminding myself of what my body is capable of!
4. What is your favourite memory at All Level CrossFit?
My favourite memory at All Level is actually a very recent one (that is still happening right now)… My first Crossfit Open! This has been such a fun and challenging opportunity to really bond with the crossfit community and build a foundation for my future in this sport. It will be so cool to use my score this year as a metric to track my progress in the coming years!
5. What goals have you set for yourself in CrossFit that you’ve successfully achieved? What are your current goals?
My first goal was to have the confidence and the skill set to attend a WOD class! Now I go to about 4 times a week! This year, my goals are: do a pull-up, jump to a 20” box, and power clean 115# 😎
6. What advice do you have for someone who’s on the fence about starting CrossFit?
JUST DO IT!!! There’s no such thing as the perfect time to start. Sometimes you’ll never feel “ready.” Just take the first step and be open to learning something new!
7. How has your experience at All Level CrossFit improved your life outside of the gym?
All Level Crossfit literally saved my life. My experience at the gym has drastically improved my mental health. I’m more physically capable at work and in my everyday life (thanks functional fitness!). I’ve made so many friends through the gym that I cherish so much. Going to the gym gives me something to look forward to every day! I’m so grateful for all the coaches and members who have made my experience so incredible. Shoutout to Coach Stephy for always believing in me since day one ❤️