“You can always get better or improve. It is fair to say that I have improved in almost every area physically and at the same time I can say I need to improve in almost every area.  That chase is what keeps me coming back.”

 

How did your journey with CrossFit Northland began? How long have you been a member of CrossFit Northland? What made you decide to do CrossFit?

I have been a member at CFN for 4 years now! There are always new faces around the gym so there are times I feel like I’ve been around forever. However, there are still a lot of original OG’s around which makes me feel even better about being here for so long.  Prior to moving to KC I was in the military and really turned my nose up to Crossfit. However, after moving here and doing the YMCA thing for a few months, I quickly learned that I needed an environment of competitive, like minded people. So I Googled Crossfit gyms near me and two popped up as nearby.  It was really just chance that I went with CFN over the other place. Maybe something was guiding me! 

Tell us about your fitness/health background? (Have you always been active? Played sports growing up? Tried other gym settings? Workout at home?)

I was a two sport athlete all through HS and mostly relied on talent instead of work ethic.  It wasn’t until college that I realized more emphasis needed to be placed on the weight room and development.  At that time it was a little too late. I joined the Air Force in 2005 and I would say really developed a work ethic in the gym and training when I entered Special Tactics training in 2007. From there I used fitness as my outlet and a chance to compete.  My desire to coach people started when I became a Special Tactics instructor during my last 3 years in the military and carried over to my current profession today. 

How has CFN played a role in your life outside of the gym?

The friendships I have made since coming to CFN mean everything to me.  I have had the pleasure of sharing unforgettable moments with friends that are here today because of CFN.  I know I won’t remember what WODs I did over these 4 years but I will remember dancing at a wedding, hugging after a baby announcement, camping out during competitions and getting to know people on a personal level and going insane in the stands at Arrowhead after a 24 point comeback win and for that I am thankful. 

What are some changes you’ve noticed in yourself during your time here at CFN? (Physically, mentally, capabilities, daily life, etc.)

When it comes to changes I don’t know where to start.  Four years ago I had a decent amount of strength but I moved poorly and always found myself pushing myself to redline in almost every workout.  Today my movement patterns have improved drastically due to the constant and consistent coaching from all of the staff and I have learned to navigate workouts efficiently (most of the time).  I feel just as good at 34 as I did at 24. 

What kinds of things can you do now, that you were not able to do when you first started CrossFit? (inside or outside of the gym)

What’s great about Crossfit is there is no end of the road.  You can always get better or improve. It is fair to say that I have improved in almost every area physically and at the same time I can say I need to improve in almost every area.  That chase is what keeps me coming back. 

In your opinion, what is the most valuable aspect of Crossfit Northland?

The coaching. I cannot stress it enough.  It is easy to take something for granted when you never experience it another way.  After getting my CF L1 I realized that the exact same concepts that were taught were a part of our everyday classes.  It made practicals and the test that much easier to perform on because I have already heard it a thousand times. Doing simple things exceptionally well makes CFN elite.  

What is your favorite CFN memory?

There was a point in my journey that I started to fade in motivation.  I started to ask myself “why am I doing this?”. A CFN coach pulled me aside and reminded me that at home I have four little eye balls that are watching my every move. He reminded me that my habits and lifestyle will mold them for who they become in the future.  I will never forget that moment. 

Do you have a favorite type of workout? If so, tell us about it.

I usually enjoy fast workouts.  Something that I can just push go and not worry about strategy.  The old me did this during 20 minute AMRAPs!