Tell us a little bit about yourself (family, job, interests/hobbies, etc): I was born and raised on a crop farm in Michigan before moving to the southeast, to be with my now husband, after graduating from Michigan State University. All of my family (parents, 2 sisters, and their families) reside in Michigan so I travel often to visit. I have 2 nephews that I adore. My husband lives in NC with our two dogs (Gumbo and Illy) and I live here in Houston for work (Clinical Research Lead for Baylor College of Medicine’s Adult and Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Research Team) with our newest pup Wally. I am an avid runner and run 4 races a year (2 road marathons and 2 ultra trail races). Outside of crossfit and running, my hobbies include hiking, cooking, and gardening.
When did you start working out District H? Initially started once a week in May 2021 and transitioned to a full time member in August 2021; however, I have been doing Crossfit since 2014.
What made you decide to start working out in general? Overall health. I have two degrees in human nutrition and grew up an athlete, so working out has remained a constant in my life. Returning to crossfit full time at District H was a way for me to immerse myself in the community since I moved to Houston in March 2021 as well as to maintain strength workouts that supplement my running.
How have your workouts made an impact on your life outside of the gym? Outside of the gym, working out has greatly helped my mental health. It’s a wonderful form of therapy for me.
What is your favorite & least favorite workout or movement? Favorite workout: Diane, Favorite movement: HSPUs; Least favorite workout: FGB or DT, Least favorite movement: Turkish Get Ups/Sumo Dead High Pulls
What is your favorite & least favorite lift? Favorite lift: Deadlifts, Least Favorite: Snatch
What are your fitness goals? Qualify for New York City and London Marathons as well as run Western States 100 mile race.
What is your proudest gym moment/achievement? Crossfit related: 125# OHS, 250# DL; Running related: 3:18 Marathon, completed my first 50 miler
What is your favorite quote or words to live by? Breathe Deep, Run Hard.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you. I grew up selling sweet corn which put me and my sisters through college.
What advice would you give to newbies? Be consistent…it’s never going to be comfortable, but you’ll eventually get used to being uncomfortable.