From Coach Pete: Christina is easily one of the most valuable assets to the gym. Her ability to effectively encourage and assist others is second to none. In the afternoons, its not unusual to find Christina taking time out of her own workout to lend a hand to someone who may be struggling with a movement. Community is critical to the gym and Christina is the glue that holds us together. Its truly amazing to have such a great person play such an important role in this community. Thank you, for everything that you do Christina!
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1) What is your why? What gets you out of bed in the morning?
I’m still trying to figure this one out but every day I strive to live my life making whatever positive impact I can in people’s lives- namely by spreading love and kindness. I know I was placed on this planet for some reason but who knows maybe my purpose is simply to love my family, my friends, my community and my planet. A lot can come from that without having a direct, specific or grand intention.
2) What is your most meaningful goal?
I have a goal to start a mentorship program that will help high school students maneuver all that comes with pursuing learning beyond highschool. I had great mentors and people who helped me along my path of being a first generation college student, so I want to pay it forward and continue to help more students achieve more than they think possible.
3) If you could have lunch with anyone ever, who would it be and why?
Michelle Obama- setting aside her political ties, she is an amazing person. She is not only smart and sophisticated but a strong woman. I admire how she made the best of her situation, despite not wanting to be in the public eye from the beginning. She embraced her position and strived to make an impact of her own while in her role as first lady, and she continues to do so today.
4) What is your favorite part of training?
Before I found CrossFit I was a runner, so I enjoy the cardio aspect of training. But overall I just really enjoy pushing myself and my body to move. Before the mandatory COVID break I was really struggling mentally when it came to training. I had been coming daily but it was just another thing on my list for the day, another part of the daily routine. This may not sound like a bad thing, but I was lacking the correct mindset when walking into the gym. The break renewed this mindset, and it reminded me that training is so much better when surrounded by people that want to see you get better.
5) What is your least favorite part of training?
I have always struggled with getting my body to move in the manner that is being explained to me. I’m not really sure how else to explain it and I think it was due to my lack of sports growing up. For instance, when it comes to complex movements like snatches or anything on the rig I really struggle with the body awareness needed for these movements.
6) What has been your biggest obstacle on your fitness journey?
The mental aspect and fear of lifting heavy has been my biggest obstacle. I have found that if I just lift and focus on my form, rather than the number of pounds, it has allowed me to get past this mental block. It doesn’t always work, some days lifts just feel heavy and I still struggle. When these days hit I try my best not to get hung up on the ‘failures’ and instead focus on how far I have come.
7) What would your ideal day consist of?
I would want to get an early morning start to the day with some good coffee and a solid breakfast. A brisk morning walk with some good music and time to myself to get into a positive mindset. I would then want to enjoy nature by exploring a new hiking trail or go for a long bike ride with my husband. Next would be a lunch filled with some good food and conversation with either a new or old friend. I would then spend the remaining part of my afternoon doing whatever creative project I am currently working on. I would then round out my day with some gym time. Moving my body always gives me the boost of energy needed to get through the rest of the evening. Which would consist of making and eating some yummy dinner and curling up with a good book or my journal.
9) Who is your biggest inspiration?
My biggest inspiration is my mom. She is a strong, caring and genuine person despite the hardships she has been through the past few years. She instilled in me a faith in the good of humanity and a strong hard work ethic that has provided me with so much opportunity. If I am half the woman she is in my lifetime, I will be content with who I am.
10) What brought you to Roaster Barbell?
I had done Crossfit for 7 years, by the time my husband and I moved to the area. We were looking for good programming and a gym that would be closer to our new home. When we were looking into our options we met Pete. From the get go we were impressed with him, his knowledge and the first few members we met were so welcoming. We immediately knew it was the place for us.
11) How has the gym influenced your life outside of the gym?
I feel that the gym has developed and strengthened my mental toughness. I have been able to overcome so much through the past year as a result of this. Like many people I have struggled keeping myself in a positive mental place during the pandemic. By no means does this mean I have it all figured out and I never have a bad day. On the contrary! But when these do come up I can move through the hard days with more ease because I am mentally tough.
12) What advice would you give someone who is on the fence about CrossFit and Roaster Barbell?
There is never a better time to start to get into shape or to challenge your mind and body! The people you surround yourself with are a huge part of getting comfortable with being uncomfortable. This gym is filled with wonderful people who are authentic and encouraging.
13) If you could go anywhere in the world for a day where would you go and why?
Sicily- I want to experience the breathtaking vista, rich culture and good food. Ask me again tomorrow and most likely I would have a different answer. I’m definitely the stereotypical wanderlust…
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Thank you for taking the time to get to know Christina and her journey! If you would like to learn how you could become our next success story, just email Coach Pete at ptaylor@mail.bw.edu and lets begin talking about how Roaster Barbell and help you reach your goals!