Tell us a little bit about yourself. What do you do outside the gym?
I joined Hardware in 2023. At the time, I was looking for small group classes outside of big box gyms and wanted to expand my circle/community. I’m a singer with WCPA’s Treble Quire, and equal parts a homebody and energizer bunny. I love being in nature, exploring new places, concerts, spending quality time with people I love, and my adorable squeaky cat, Rosie. Over the last 5 years, I’ve been in Property Management managing staff and building operations for small residential buildings, high rises, and commercial spaces all around Chicago, however I’m right at the beginning stages of a big career change. This year I began networking and laying down plans to become a sex therapist, a career goal I’ve had for years that finally feels attainable. I’m so excited about it!
What initially got you into training, and what keeps you coming back?
My fitness journey started back in 2013 and was initially a weight loss journey I documented on social media. After many years of unlearning fatphobic beliefs and working with a trainer who agreed that athletes come in all kinds of bodies, I learned to love fitness. Over the years, I’ve learned the gym can be a healing space and a place to reclaim your body when you find the right people to support you. I feel honored and lucky to have found that in Hardware. I keep coming back because I love the endorphins rush but most of all, I love the community and friends made.
3What are your fitness goals? How close are you to reaching them?
My fitness goals are to show up consistently, listen to my body, and continue to progress however that looks for the day. The real goal though is to still be fit well into my 70s and 80s. Maybe 90s if I make it that long :)
What’s an accomplishment or goal you’ve reached at Hardware that makes you the most proud?
Overall, the increased flexibility is something I’m most proud of. I love being able to do box jumps again and just started noticing I can get a bit lower to the ground/closer to horizontal when doing ring rows! Figuring out one-rep max numbers has been exhilarating and eye-opening as well.
Favorite WOD/movement?
Favorite WODs: Murph with an echo bike and The 300 Workout. I have a thing for long, full-body, grueling workouts
Movements: Thrusters and wall balls sprinkled with some back squats.
Least favorite WOD/movement?
Any and all kinds of burpees
Any advice for someone interested in trying out Hardware?
There are so many gyms and fitness industry folk that contribute to people feeling othered and unwelcome. If you’re looking for a place that truly values inclusion and meeting you where you’re at, try Hardware. The movements might seem intimidating at first, but the welcoming and celebrating community here is top notch. They will cheer you on every step of the way.