How did you find CrossFit and how long did it take before you were hooked?
I drove by our gym for years before I ventured in. It was 2016, Justin and I were looking for ways to get healthier and I kept seeing those Reebok commercials of the girls flipping tires and was curious about the concept of CrossFit. I didn’t know if it was in the realm of what I was even capable of but I took a chance and emailed Jay. I was looking for a “hobby that gives back” and figured even if he laughed in my face, at least I can say I checked it out. He was so nice and what was supposed to be a 15-minute meeting turned into an hour. Fast forward to a year later and I wanted to learn more so I took the first level coaching certification. The gym made me feel ALIVE and I wanted to share that with others. The rest is history.
How has your life changed since finding CrossFit?
My life has definitely changed for the better. After 12 years working in Human Resources & Counselling, my career took a different path and I haven’t looked back since. It’s hard to put into words how much CrossFit has changed me as a person and the way I look at situations. My mental toughness is at a different level now and my tolerance of physical discomfort is much higher. I appreciate my body and what it can do and I’m way less judgmental of myself than I was before. I was struggling with finding an identity outside of motherhood and CrossFit gave me something, just for me, that I could work towards. I’ve always loved psychology, career counselling, and coaching others to feel successful in their jobs, so moving into my current role was such a natural move for me. I left the 9-5 world behind to do something I truly love.
What do you love most about coaching?
I’ve always been driven towards roles where I can help people. I feel with coaching, I not only get to help, but I get to celebrate your victories with you and watch the transformation you make to becoming your best self. Coaching is a highly rewarding opportunity to give someone the tools and watch the magic!
What are you reading right now? Or last book you read?
To be completely honest is was “Stephanie’s Ponytail” by Robert Munsch. I have two little girls at home who keep me pretty busy. There hasn’t been a lot of pleasure reading lately. However, I do enjoy taking a couple professional development courses each year to increase my coaching toolbox and this year it was Lifestyle Wellness Coaching and Pre/Post Natal Fitness.
What is something you would like to accomplish? (Athletic endeavour or not)
Athletically, I’m after the handstand walks! Personally, I’d like to get back into writing. I used to write for a few platforms, had a blog in the works and then babies…With the kids a bit older now, it’s definitely a passion I’ll revisit.
Favourite CrossFit movement
It’s a toss-up between Hang Squat Clean & anything with a dumbbell!
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
My father taught me how to drive a standard car when I was 15 and I drove stick for 5 years before I bought my first automatic car (which was a Ford Ranger).
Favourite cheat/bad food?
Pizza all the way!