TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF. WHAT DO YOU DO OUTSIDE OF THE GYM?
My family and I moved to Chicago about 2 years ago. I am a mom to two beautiful kids and one sweet dog! I love doing anything outdoors especially exploring all the different parks around the city! Fun fact: we are moving to N’Djamena, Chad, Africa at the end of the year! I am excited about taking the next step in our journey and seeing the world.
WHAT INITIALLY GOT YOU INTO TRAINING AND WHAT KEEPS YOU COMING BACK?
I have been active my whole life. I started with gymnastics, swimming, and track when I was younger. I ran cross country and track in college and eventually got into triathlons. In 2010 my husband and I got into weight training and CrossFit. I really cannot imagine a life without fitness. About a year after moving to Chicago I found myself in a fitness rut. I was working out alone in our home gym, and it just was not for me. I decided to get back into CrossFit and after my first class at Hardware I was hooked again. Hardware didn’t just pull me out of my rut, it reignited the fire inside of me. There is nothing better than working out with a group of people all moving towards similar goals. We suffer and get stronger together!
WHAT ARE YOUR FITNESS GOALS? HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO REACHING THEM?
I am just trying to be the best version of myself. I would have to say my number 1 thing is to make my kids proud. I love when they imitate me and say things like I want to be strong like MOM!!
I would like to hit a 105# Snatch and 135# Clean and Jerk by the end of summer! If I keep working hard, I think I can definitely make these two goals happen!
WHAT’S AN ACCOMPLISHMENT OR GOAL YOU’VE REACHED AT HARDWARE THAT MADE YOU THE MOST PROUD?
A few months ago, I got my first strict bar muscle up since having Brooks. Also, during the second open workout I hit a 120# thruster. Both of these milestones were huge for me! If it wasn’t for Parker screaming “YOU CAN DO THIS!” in my face, I’m not sure I would’ve gotten it.
FAVORITE WOD/MOVEMENT?
Pull Ups & Cleans! I love a good Chipper.
LEAST FAVORITE WOD/MOVEMENT?
Wall Balls. I really hate them!!
ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE INTERESTED IN TRYING OUT HARDWARE?
Don’t be afraid to step through the doors and try. I always hear people say things like “I’m not in shape, I’m too old, I’m not strong enough for CrossFit….” CrossFit is for everyone especially at Hardware. Darcy and the whole crew do a great job making everyone feel seen. The coaches are always so encouraging. I always hear Coach Ozzy cheering me on while I lift during Open Gym. There is nothing better than having a great community rallying behind you!
