Rain or shine, you can always count on Josie to show up at the 5:30 AM class and have a huge smile on her face. From day one, she has always had a positive, go-getter attitude, ready to see where being a member of SYCF would take her. She is extremely teachable and always the first to step up and accept a new challenge, whether it be attacking the handstand or perfecting her double unders. We are extremely happy and honored to introduce Josie as this week’s Athlete of the week! We can’t wait to see what other opportunities she crushes!
How would you explain your occupation to a 5 year old?
I buy ingredients to make tuna and chicken salad.
How did you get started with CrossFit?
I took a class at Illinois Wesleyan and really liked the intensity of the workouts. Have always wanted to give it a try again since taking that class. With the gym so close to where I live now, it was easy to get started!
How long have you been doing CrossFit?
About 3 months now, yay!
What are your hobbies and interests outside CrossFit?
Play piano for 2 churches, St. Mary’s in Sycamore and the Newman Center in DeKalb. I love to clean 🙂 I am a caretaker of many house plants. I love traveling, painting, and spending time with my family. Also volunteer for many community events throughout the year. I keep myself busy, but my pet fish, Andy, is really the one who keeps me going!
What is your fitness background?
Practically none… does gardening/yard work count? 🙂 Outside of PE and a couple years of tennis, I’ve not had any real athletic experience.
Short-term training goal?
Be able to do basic movements like pushups and situps. Working towards doing 20 unbroken pushups – almost there!
Long-term training goal?
Keep physical activity a regular part of my weekly routine.
What is your favorite movement?
Squats!
What is your least favorite movement?
Hand-stands…
Proudest moment in CrossFit so far?
Doing 10 consecutive double unders!
What was your biggest obstacle to starting CrossFit and how did you overcome that?
I had this irrational fear that I would inevitably injure my wrists or my arms, inhibiting my ability to play the piano. That fear still goes through my mind, but I have learned to understand my body’s limitations and just pay close attention to how my body feels when/after doing certain movements.
What kept you coming back?
All of the coaches and the 5:30am class – when people say it’s the best class of the day, they aren’t joking! It’s a ton of fun and lots of energy! I look forward to going each time!
Your advice for someone considering starting CrossFit?
Don’t be intimidated – just do it. It’s fun and highly rewarding. Be prepared to be challenged both physically and mentally. Coaches are there to help you with any questions/concerns you may have. And, most importantly, be positive!!
How has Sycamore CrossFit changed your life?
Even though I’ve only been going for the last 3 months or so, I already feel like I’m in better shape than I’ve ever been my entire life. I can carry groceries up my stairs all at once now without feeling like I’m out of breath. It’s the small things. I just love having more energy to do the things I want to do!