What do you do when you're not at CFA? I find great JOY in being a lifelong learner; equipping, encouraging, empowering and inspiring individuals with the tools needed for success. I serve and support elementary principals in Ottawa County, as well as my most treasured gift…my FAMILY; my husband Jeremy and our three boys (Jadon-15, Parker-13 and Gibson-8). We love traveling/adventuring and are on a family mission to visit America’s 63 National Parks.
What led you to Crossfit and CFA specifically?
My husband was the one who told me about CFA. I was a mom of three and elementary principal at the time and Jeremy encouraged me to take some time for myself and give it a try. I’m forever GRATEFUL.
When did you realize that CrossFit is right for you? I KNOW Crossfit continues to be right for me because when I start my day in this AMAZING place, I am a better Jesus-follower, wife, mom, daughter, colleague and friend. When physical fitness is part of my early morning routine, my mental, emotional and spiritual state is functioning at its GREATEST POTENTIAL.
Do you remember your first WOD?
I do not…it was SEVEN years ago!
What movement do you despise over everything and why?
I despise BURPEES in the worst way!!! Every time I do them in a WOD, I get a headache. I need to work on breathing through the down-up movement!
What has been your all-time favorite moment at CFA?
Call me crazy, but I love WALL BALLS! I appreciate the way in which they work muscles in my ENTIRE body- legs, back, and arms. A close second favorite would be the DB SNATCH.
What motivates you during a tough workout? My motivation is my 4 boys! I want to be the best version of myself as I watch them learn, grow and are blessed with their own families. God-willing, I WILL be the CFA grandma still trying to do burpees when I’m 70!
If you could write your own workout for a day, what would it be?
Hmmm…any workout WITHOUT burpees, running or toe taps (thanks Kate) is my jam!
What are your goals going forward and what do you think will help you achieve them?
My goal is to get STRONGER every day! Moving forward, CONSISTENCY will make that happen by engaging in class 4-5 times EVERY week. Another goal is to continue working on my nutrition. What I eat either FEEDS disease or FIGHTS disease, so I must choose wisely! I would also love to master the DOUBLE UNDER.
What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health, and fitness or just day to day life since starting CrossFit (before/after?)
The biggest change I have seen in my body is a STRONGER CORE. When I started CFA, I couldn’t even complete ONE sit-up. My core was so weak, Josh and Kate had to hold my feet/put weights on my feet to scale a sit-up.
What would you recommend to someone who is just starting out with CrossFit?
To someone just starting out with Crossfit…best advice is to CONNECT with people. Melinda Vereeke was one of the first people I met at CFA. Her beautiful smile, contagious laughter and welcoming spirit was what kept me coming back.
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 am most motivated and inspired by LEAH AUSTIN. Her incredible strength and genuine, Jesus-loving spirit makes me want to push harder. Leah is so strong and serious about her workouts, but not so serious that she can’t take time to CONNECT with people, give them a hug and encourage them. Thank you Leah…you are a gem!
Quick Questions Favorite Cheat Meal: Iceream! Any kind, any way…I love it!
Favorite Workout Song: Eye of the Tiger
Favorite Place You Have Traveled: Glacier National Park, Montana & Sedona, Arizona
Favorite TV Show: I don’t spend a lot of time watching TV/TV shows. Movies on the weekends are great though!
Favorite CrossFit Athlete (if any): The girl box jumping in the bathroom. :) After every workout, I faithfully wash my hands. She’s always there and reminds me that even though I may not have RX’d the WOD, I got up and moved my body. A beautiful picture & reminder of incredible STRENGTH, GRIT and DETERMINATION.
Coach's comment: Everybody loves Marie, she's the epitome of a good friend, mom, wife & CrossFitter. She has been a member with us for so long we couldn’t remember if she had already been member of the month or not. To make it even worse she couldn’t remember either… but this is in fact her first time. When we first met her she really struggled with sit-ups and ab movements but since then her core strength has improved immensely. Recently she started to string together more double-unders and she is continually getting better at burpees. She is without a doubt one of the most friendly and welcoming people we have at CFA. We are thankful Marie decided to join us in 2015 and we look forward to seeing her continue her fitness journey with us!!!