What brought you to CrossFit in the first place?

It has always been my dream to become a firefighter and this summer I made the decision to go for it and apply to the fire academy and I got in! At my current job I have the opportunity to work with several current firefighters and they all tell me that crossfit is the best way to prepare and get in shape for the training and the job. The functional training aspect of it combines cardio and strength training, both of which are important to constantly improve for such a physically demanding job. I also wanted something more than just a normal gym where I run on the treadmill and then lift weights as I’ve done in the past. I needed a group setting, high intensity workouts, and coaches that can hold me accountable for my training. I’m so happy to have found all of this at Crossfit Westmount.

What was your first impression?  How has that changed?

At first I thought I had to be an expert right away, but I quickly learned that every movement can be scaled and everyone starts from a different place. I did the Foundations program with Christiane and this really helped me start my crossfit journey on the right foot!

What was your first highlight?

My first highlight was hitting my first PR! I had just finished a WOD that included the Assault Bike. And after hitting 75 calories in under 5 minutes, Tom told me to write my name on the PR board. I had no idea if it was a worthy accomplishment to be on the board or not, but it taught me to celebrate the small fitness goals just as much as the large ones.

What are you working on improving now in CrossFit?

Now I’m working on improving my strict pull ups. I’ve made a lot of progress so far and look forward to being able to keep building off that.

What is your favorite CrossFit Westmount memory?

My favourite memory was the holiday ugly sweater party X Total workout! It was fun to see all the familiar faces that you workout with every day come together and have a great time while also testing your PRs! We got to attempt our 1 Rep Max weights at the deadlift, back squat, and strict press. With everyone cheering each other on, I completely shocked myself with how much weight I could lift and there was no better feeling than ringing the PR bell to celebrate.