When did you start at FFA?

My CrossFit journey began November 2018. I would be amiss if I didn’t mention my intimidation concerning joining a CrossFit gym. I was scared. Scared I wouldn’t know how to perform the weightlifting movements and scared that I would look foolish. I couldn’t have been more wrong. Best decision I have made in a very long time.

What is your favorite workout?

The MURPH. I really enjoy pull-ups and the ability to break up moves into smaller sets. I also enjoy running so I appreciate a workout that calls for a 200m, 400m or even 800m.

What type of exercise were you doing before FFA?

For the last 18 years I have been committed to a consistent exercise regime. I mostly did group fitness classes with some weight room workouts sporadically sprinkled in from time to time. The last gym I was a member of introduced barbell work and it was like a whole new world. I had never lifted before, and I was game but in small doses. Ultimately, I had a preference towards cardio. I made really great friends at my previous gym but eventually we weren’t able to work out together. Without those ladies, my relationship with the gym started to falter. One of my friends, Darien, had started at FFA about a year earlier and had been trying to get me to join – it took a lot for me to step out of my comfort zone but gosh I’m glad I did.

What are your health and fitness goals and have you achieved any of those goals?  How is it going so far?

My primary goal health and fitness goal is to show up. I traditionally attend the 5:30am class M-F. I have good days and bad days, but I never leave a workout disappointed. I would love to do a muscle-up and improve my overhead squat form.

Has Five Forks Athletics affected your life outside the gym?

Being a part of the FFA has enriched my life in so many ways. I have met so many people and made many new friends. When my daughter, Isabella, was in high school she would attend classes with me and eventually my husband, Phillip, joined as well. I love the time we spend together at FFA – Phillip and I have recently participated in a few of the in-house competitions and that was a first for the both of us. I have never felt like a stranger at FFA – I have always felt welcome and supported and to me that is the biggest compliment I could give – thank you to all of the trainers and staff at FFA for that gift.

Do you have any other special memories/achievements during your time here?

One of my best memories of my time here at FFA was the most recent in-house competition November 2021 – my beautiful friend Darien asked me to be her partner. I was beyond elated – she is one of the strongest ladies I know, and she wanted to be my partner! We didn’t win – but we spent the day supporting and cheering one another.