Athlete of the MonthJuly
How old / young are you?
I am older than 35.
What is your occupation? I lead partner marketing efforts for a Denver based tech company called Ping Identity. I’ve been with Ping more than 5 years and have been in the technology space for more than 20.
When did you join Widespread CrossFit? I joined WSCF on its first day! I think I had my first free class, then did on-ramp and was hooked.
Why did you decide to give CrossFit a try? I have acquaintances who have been doing CF and I have seen and read about their journeys and transformations on social media. It’s been beyond simply getting in shape – it’s more like their lifestyles have completely changed – in a positive way. I’ve been secretly hoping a CF gym would open in our area for a long time and was so excited when I drove by and saw the sign going up at Widespread! I checked out a few other CF gyms in the past, but they were very intimidating, and also far away. One of my CF friends told me that a good CF coach makes all the difference. And Matt is amazing – so patient, knowledgeable and attentive to his athletes. I know I have chosen the right place. What was your athletic background before starting CrossFit? I’ve always embraced exercise – but doing things at the local rec center, private gyms, running, short races, and even at the home gym. When my early morning workout group broke up a few years ago (differing schedules) – I lost my “routine” and motivation. I realized pretty quickly I am motivated by the activity but also by the atmosphere around me. So I wanted my next gym experience to be motivating – and I’ve found that and then some at WCF! The athletes and Matt as coach, have welcomed me and all the other new members into the gym. I am also so humbled and motivated by the talented athletes around me! They give me something to shoot for (Kari and Heidi!) These people and WCF make getting up at 5 a.m. so worth it! What changes in your health, physique, and overall performance have you seen since starting CrossFit? I have only been at it for a few months, but I can already feel myself getting stronger. It’s amazing how quickly the body adapts to these workouts. I’ve been able to add weights to movements that were harder when I started and I can see definition in my muscles that shows me they are responding. Most importantly, Matt and his philosophy have helped me be more aware – especially with diet and its impact on exercise. I am not a perfect eater, but I am definitely eating more clean – and I’m definitely more aware. And I can see the impact on my energy level as well. What advice would you give to someone with regards to starting CrossFit? Give it a try. It’ll change you in all the right ways – and in the shortest amount of time. After one hour of a CF workout, I leave feeling exhausted, invigorated and satisfied that my time was spent right. And a few hours later, I am thinking I” wonder what the next workout will bring?” I can’t wait to find out. What is your favorite and least favorite CrossFit exercises / movement? Ha – this is easy. Matt knows I am not a fan the “snatch” – even the name sounds scary. I just learned about the handstand push up last week – so that one may be a close second on my “not so sure about that” list. My favorite movement? Maybe my water break. I like all the rest because I know they afford me results. It’s more the moves I’m a not fan of that stick out. What is your most memorable CrossFit moment so far? Needing a harder band on my ring dips. It was nice to see I had “moved up” to a color that was more challenging! What do you like to do outside of CrossFit? I’m usually at one of my kids’ sporting events or golfing with my kids and husband. What is your favorite “cheat” food or meal? Home made pizza. I’m first generation Italian – so giving up cheese is next to impossible! What is something people would be surprised to know about you? I’m a huge Boston sports fan. And yes, you can see a Pats flag hanging at my house during football season – much to my husband and son’s chagrin (they are die hard Broncos fans). Who or what inspires you the most? Motivated people. Period. I like being around people who challenge themselves. And that’s just what I’ve found at WCF. What is one goal you would like to accomplish through CrossFit? Strength, conditioning and toning. I often wonder, what will my strength be like six months from now? A year from now? I can’t wait to find out!
