What do you do when you're not at CFA? When I’m not at CFA I enjoy spending time with my family. Many of you already know my husband Trever and we have an 11yr old son TJ. I work at the school as an aide, and love getting to know the kids. During the summer you will more than likely find me hanging out in our garage working on a home project or helping Trever with one. I enjoy traveling and trying new things. I also love going to concerts.
What led you to Crossfit and CFA specifically?
I saw that they were rated as the best place to work out in Allendale. After researching it online I knew I wanted to give it a try but was intimidated about doing it on my own. I convinced my husband to go with me and we have been members ever since.
When did you realize that CrossFit is right for you? The aspects that I’ve loved about CrossFit since day one are: the workouts being posted for me, having Josh and Kate there to answer questions or critique my movements to prevent injury, and the loud music.
I realized that CFA was right for me when there was a workout that involved a lot of burpees for time. I was struggling and ready to quit, when a former member asked me how many I had left. I told her 25, and she proceeded to do my last 25 burpees along with me. I was surprised that someone was willing to suffer through the pain with me, and even more surprised that I finished. Those are the moments that set CFA apart from other gyms.
Do you remember your first WOD? No, but I remember it involved sit-ups and I remember thinking “what did I get myself into”!
What movement do you despise over everything and why?
Wall walks! I always feel like my arms are going to give out and I’m going to end up falling on my head.
What has been your all-time favorite moment at CFA?
Running a 5K without stopping and being happy with my time. It’s always a good felling when I’m able to lift more weight too!!!
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What motivates you during a tough workout? I’m motivated when I see everyone pushing through the workout right along with me, the loud music and knowing that I’ll have a feeling of accomplishment when it’s over.
If you could write your own workout for a day, what would it be?
Strength:
Bench press, build up to 1 rep max
WOD:
4X for time.
400 meter run
15 pullups
20 pushups
30 sit ups
What are your goals going forward and what do you think will help you achieve them?
I would like to improve my running by going on more runs outside of CrossFit.
What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health, and fitness or just day to day life since starting CrossFit (before/after?)
When I first started at CFA I was really unhappy with my weight and health. I was at a pretty low point in my life and ready for a change. Since starting at CFA I’ve noticed my strength and energy have improved. Before Crossfit I never lifted a barbell but now I love it, and I’m getting stronger every day. Working out first thing in the morning keeps me consistent and puts me in a better mood throughout my day.
What would you recommend to someone who is just starting out with CrossFit or is too afraid to try it?
I would tell someone just starting out with CrossFit that everyone’s journey is different so go at your own pace. Don’t compare yourself to others. Make your own goals and focus on them. Walking through the door is the hardest part, but you’ll be so glad you did.
If you could have one skill or characteristic of another member at CFA what and from whom would it be? Or which other CFA member are you the most motivated by?
I started my Crossfit journey two and a half years ago and the person that motivated me the most was my husband Trever. I was in the worst shape of my life and saying that I felt overwhelmed would be an understatement. In the beginning, I would often leave feeling discouraged and felt like there would never come a day where I didn’t come in last. Thankfully, Trever gave me many “pep” talks and reminded me to focus on my self-improvement rather than how I compared to everyone else on the whiteboard.
Aside from Trever, there are many people that inspire me every day at CFA. The 5:45am class is a great group of people and I’m thankful I get to start my day with them. Debra Hoeve Zeinstra made me feel welcome on my first day, which made it easier to come back. Melissa Dyke has pushed me through many partner WOD’s, and she always gives it her all. I was inspired when I watched Brian Meinecke push himself so hard during a WOD that he had to run out the back door to vomit. Not that vomiting is my goal, but I respect him for having the mental capacity to push himself that hard, and it encourages me to push myself harder. Dave Valko’s choice to be vegan inspires me to try more vegan options. This past week we grilled our first Impossible Burgers, and I’ll be making them again. When Ted Rossman runs, he makes it look so easy, which inspires me to keep working on my running. I think Christine Conners Hill’s amount of determination and grit is always impressive. Tanja Anderson inspires me to get out of bed and make it to the 5:45am class even when I’m too tired and don’t feel like it. Also, watching her push herself and improve on her barbell weights has pushed me to do the same. Last but not least, Chris Steele’s consistency and dedication-#KeepPounding, #EnoughSaid!!!!
Now that I’ve been a part of the CFA family for two and half years, I have much more confidence in myself and if I don’t make it to the gym in the morning I feel as though my day is not complete.
Quick Questions Favorite Cheat Meal: Pizza
Favorite workout song: I love all music, so it is impossible for me to pick just one song. My favorite decade of music is the 80’s but I also enjoy the music that is played at the gym.
Favorite place you have traveled: Bruges, Belgium or Edinburgh, Scotland – loved them both for different reasons.
Favorite Tv Show: Seinfeld or Friends
Favorite CrossFit Athlete (if any): Rich Froning
Coach's comment: Kari has been well deserving of member of the month for quite some time now. She shows up consistently at 545am ready to get a sweat in. Since starting CF she has improved her running, gotten much stronger and made some friends along the way!! We love having her and Trever as part of our CFA family. Keep up the hard work and consistency, Kari!