Tell us a little bit about yourself. What do you do outside the gym?
I am relatively new to Chicago so I am still getting used to the city and the midwest in general. I have been exploring more of it and look forward to many more years here. I love to run, play music when I have the energy, lounge by the lakefront with friends, and try out all the foods Chicago has to offer. My favorite season is summer, objectively the best season.
What initially got you into training, and what keeps you coming back?
I have always been an active person, starting at a young age. I competed in cross country and track & field growing up where I was good for my county but not great for my state. I started weightlifting and strength training during college. I followed a traditional strength training program back then and saw a lot of gains with the major barbell lifts. I also got my first pull ups then! However, after some big life transitions in my mid-20s, I took an 8 year break from fitness & movement, only running occasionally. I’m re-committed to training now that I am in my 30s and see the mental health and stress relief benefits that it provides. I keep coming back for the dopamine rush and seeing the gradual progress that comes with consistency. I also love seeing other people level up at the gym as well!
What are your fitness goals? How close are you to reaching them?
My fitness goals are all related to long-term mobility. Anyone that has experienced an injury knows the privilege it is to just be able to walk freely and with comfort and do basic tasks like climbing steps. We definitely take it for granted until something forces us to rehab an injury. I’d like to stay mobile into my old age (I joke with friends that I would love to be able to wipe my own butt when I’m 91!). I’d say that reaching my goals will be a life-long effort but I’m excited to keep chasing them.
What’s an accomplishment or goal you’ve reached at Hardware that makes you the most proud?
Hardware has helped me complete 2 of the goals that I’ve set for myself this year. I got a front squat > 200# earlier this year and just recently got back to a back squat > 300#. I also got a lifetime PR on deadlifts at the Hardware Total event at 360#! It was exhilarating and I felt well prepared by Hardware’s programming.
Favorite WOD/movement?
The workouts I enjoy the most always involve some combination of running, pullups, burpees (I just think they’re neat!), pushups, and the echo bike!
Least favorite WOD/movement?
Overhead squats are my nemesis! I need to work on my shoulder mobility & I think that will also help me with my cleans, snatches, jerks, and thrusters.
Any advice for someone interested in trying out Hardware?
Give it a month! The first few workouts and weeks felt really challenging for me but I’m glad that I stuck with it because the rewards on the other side were worth it. You may surprise yourself!