February Athletes of the Month – Amy & Joseph

1) What is your biggest motivation? 

I lost my step-dad 3 years ago. He was the greatest man I have ever known (besides Joseph, of course) but he neglected his health and ultimately died because of it. I workout and try to eat right because I have seen first hand what poor lifestyle choices can do. I want to live a long, happy, and healthy life. Looking badass as I head into my 50’s doesn’t hurt either.

2) Your favorite quote or words to live by?

“I think it’s really sad that pirates spend their whole lives searching for gold, not realizing that the real treasure lies in the memories they created along the way.” – Jack Handy

It’s really easy to get consumed by our goals. While goals are important to have, this quote reminds me to trust the process and enjoy the journey! I think Sam and Landon have both said something about that one time… LOL Also, it’s an SNL reference, which is pretty cool.

3) What is your current training goals/PRs? 

I’d be lying if I said there wasn’t a part of me that wants to see Pull Ups and maybe even a Bar Muscle Up by the end of this year!

4) Take us back to your first day of CrossFit… How did you feel? How do you compare it to workouts today? 

I had tried a few gyms in the area, but never saw results or felt like I belonged, so my first day at CFRR I was nervous and wondering if this gym was going to be the same as all the others. When I walked in that first day, I was immediately greeted by Kali, Helen, Andi, and Bonnie. I don’t know if they know this, but it’s because of them that I immediately knew this place would be different, and that I had finally found my “home”.  Today, when I walk into the gym, I am excited to be around such an amazing group of supportive coaches and people, and to see what myself and all of them are capable of!

5) What advice do you have for new athletes just starting out in CrossFit? 

My first month at CFRR, I set a goal of coming to class 3x a week, every week, no excuses. After that month, coming to class was just part of my routine. My advice to new athletes is to show up! Even on the days when you’re sore, or tired, or have other stuff going on. You will be amazed what happens when you do!

6) Tell us about a moment you felt most proud of yourself during a workout? 

I am not a fast runner. You can count on me to be at the back of the pack every time. I can’t remember the exact workout, but I know it involved running combined with body weight movements and a short time cap. Like most people, I had looked at the WOD the night before and I came to class that day already defeated, because I didn’t think I could finish the running, much less the rest of the WOD, in the allowed time. Nathan was shadowing in our class that day, and I asked him if he thought I should lower the distance for the runs. He encouraged me to try the runs as written. With his encouragement, I finished the runs and the entire WOD within the time cap.

7) What are your hobbies, interests and/or talents outside of CrossFit? 

I work full time as an attorney, have a part time job, a husband, three dogs, three daughters and a granddaughter, so I don’t have a lot of free time, but when I do get a spare moment, I like watching movies at the Alamo Drafthouse, baking cupcakes (gf, df of course!), taking road trips and getting outdoors. This past November, I hiked the trail at Lost Maples. If you’ve never been, definitely put it on your bucket list! It’s AMAZING!

8) What’s your favorite part of CrossFit Round Rock?

Hands down, it’s the people! The community and the coaches are what sets CFRR apart. I am so grateful to all of you for your expertise, advice, jokes, and time. You all change people’s lives!

9) If you could create a WOD and name it for yourself, what would it be?

My workout would be called the Ups and Downs. It would be some combination of wall balls and snatches, with a rowing buy in.

10) How has your diet changed since starting CrossFit (if it has), and what foods do you rely on most? 

With Adrien’s help, I have done the 42 day detox and switched to a paleo diet. Removing gluten and dairy completely has made the biggest difference for me! I feel 100% better, sleep easier, and have way less inflammation.

We definitely meal prep at our house to make the hectic week go easier. It’s much easier to stick to our meal plan when the food is already prepped and waiting for us!