Tell us a little bit about yourself. What do you do outside the gym?
I am a Chicago native who has spent the last 15 years in education. For the last 7ish years I was the drama teacher at the school next door to Hardware. I left in June to try something new but I seem to be getting reeled back into the education world. I also do screenprinting and am slowly learning how to do many home renovations myself.
What initially got you into training, and what keeps you coming back?
I was always what some might call an “indoor kid.” My students were shocked to learn I never played sports when I was their age. Age slowly started creeping up on me and I realized I needed to start moving my body in a conscious way. I was intimidated by lifting heavy things but very quickly realized I loved it. It also helped my anxiety in giving me the feeling of grounding myself. When you’re holding heavy things you have the ultimate sensation of grounding and it was helpful to be able to recall that feeling in moments of stress. I also realized I loved having someone else tell me what the plan was. I can just show up and shut my brain off.
What are your fitness goals? How close are you to reaching them?
My goals right now are nothing crazy, just keep showing up and building routine. I’m very good at talking myself out of doing something. I have also really tried to engage the correct groups of muscles I should be when doing certain movements. Getting the right form is a big focus.
What’s an accomplishment or goal you’ve reached at Hardware that makes you the most proud?
I am constantly amazed at how much weight I’m able to back squat. I had an ACL repair back in 2018 so I always feel like my knees are about to give out on me at any moment (they’re not). Lowering my body down into a squat, feeling that my butt is actually below my knees and then pushing back up with 100+ pounds on my back is just amazing to me. Bodies are wild and so capable.
Favorite WOD/movement?
Back squats and deadlifts
Least favorite WOD/movement?
Burpees and running. They both strip me of so much energy and leave me feeling completely wiped.
Any advice for someone interested in trying out Hardware?
This is a group of such genuinely lovely people. I bop into class times I’m not usually at and there is never an unfriendly face. In these times when community is so needed, this is a great spot to build it. This indoor kid is glad she pushed herself out of her comfort zone.