What do you do when you're not at CFA? I work a lot, I am a Laboratory Technician for Mead Johnson Nutrition and I am also a Licensed Vet Tech at Apple Grove Veterinary Care. When I'm not working I enjoy spending time with my family and cats, going to the beach, camping and kayaking.
What led you to Crossfit and CFA specifically?
When I moved to Grand Rapids I was in the worst shape of my life and wanted to make a change and also meet some new friends. I had tried working out at home but I just couldn't ever stick with it, so I knew I needed a group to work out with. After some googling of local gyms, I found that CFA had all great reviews that mentioned how encouraging and welcoming they were, and that was exactly what I was looking for. I had heard of crossfit, and knew it was a great workout, but I never thought I could do it myself. I decided to try it out anyway and I am so glad I did!
When did you realize that CrossFit is right for you? When I was excited to come back the next day even after almost dying during my first WOD lol
I really liked the variety in the WODs and how each day was different. I also really liked how encouraging everyone was and how Josh and Kate worked with each person to help scale and make modifications.
Also during one of my first Saturday WODs I was struggling to finish burpees and Jenn came over and asked how many I had left and offered to do them with me. She didn't have to do that, but it meant so much and that was the sense of community I was looking for.
Do you remember your first WOD? It was many rounds of running, box jumps and wallballs. It was also super hot and I was sure I was going to die.
What movement do you despise over everything and why?
The assault bike because everything about it is terrible.
What has been your all-time favorite moment at CFA?
I think my favorite moment was the last WOD of the open. There was so much positive energy and everyone was hyping each other up. The celebration after was also a lot of fun!
What motivates you during a tough workout? Knowing everyone is struggling and they are pushing through helps me push myself as well. Also I love the feeling of accomplishment when I finish a really tough WOD I didn't think I would be able to do.
If you could write your own workout for a day, what would it be?
20-15-10-5 heavy back squats, 400 meter run before each round
What are your goals going forward and what do you think will help you achieve them?
I would like to continue to improve my endurance and be able to improve my WOD times. I would also like to get to a point where I can do every WOD Rx with no modifications.
I plan to keep being consistent in coming to class and I would like to work on nutrition more.
What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health, and fitness or just day to day life since starting CrossFit (before/after?)
I feel like I have improved a ton in the past year. I have gained a lot of new skills and I do not have to scale nearly as much as I did at first.
I have also lost about 30 pounds and I am in a much better place mentally and physically.
It was also a good feeling the last time we moved and I ended up helping the movers we hired because they were dying and they were shocked how much I could lift and how fast I could make it up and down the stairs lol
What would you recommend to someone who is just starting out with CrossFit or is too afraid to try it?
Just go for it! Making the decision to sign up for basics was super hard because I didn't know anyone and I am kinda shy, but it was one of the best decisions I have ever made!
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 would say I am most motivated by Christine! She is one of the most determined people I have met. She does not let anything hold her back and even after major surgery she still shows up consistently and kicks ass.
If I could have a characteristic of someone, I would choose either Rachel or Morgan's strength….cause they are both strong af
Quick Questions Favorite Cheat Meal: Mexican and ice cream
Favorite workout song: Lose yourself - Eminem
Favorite place you have traveled: Pictured Rocks
Favorite Tv Show: Law and Order SVU
Favorite CrossFit Athlete (if any): Kari Pearce
Coach's comment: Markie has been with us since last summer and she has been going strong nonstop ever since. It has been great to see her improve her health and fitness so much all while making some new friends in the process. She has gained plenty of new skills in the last year, significantly improving her running and strength in the process, all while losing 30 pounds!! Her consistency really has paid off. We are thankful to have you at CFA Markie, keep up the hard work!!!