Jenn is one of the Mama Bears at the gym who provides endless inspiration for all of us.  And she claims her RBF, (look it up) may make it seem like she’s grumpy but I can promise you she’s the sweetest, strongest, Mama Bear you’ll meet!  Read on to get to know Jenn Frank.

What do you do for a living?

I am a Family Nurse Practitioner.

What’s your favorite thing to do outside of the gym?

Hang out with my kiddos or catch up with friends.

What made you decide to try Progression?

I used to drive by the old gym every day on my way home from work and saw people runingthe warm up 400.  I was post two babies back to back and had some weight loss goals that also motivated me.

How long have you been at Progression?

Over 6 years ago I joined Progression.  Recently recommitted in December 2017.

What was your experience with fitness like prior to Progression?

Always participated in sport.  Never excelled at any, but knew how to play and enjoyed the game and competition.  Intramurals in college, then RAC kickboxing and spin class which lead to pretty basic road cycling prior to Progression.

What was your biggest fear when you started?

That I would never catch on.  The snatch still gives me anxiety… and I can barely string together kipping movements to save my life.  Pretty sure I cried in frustration the night I learned the snatch with the PVC pipe.

Favorite cheat day meal?

I love food, hard to choose one.  Ice cream or Acai bowl.

What Goa(s) are you currently chasing?

Clean eating with consistency.  I’ve done much more than I thought I was capable of already.  I am trying to work out smarter.  My goal is to avoid injury while being able to keep up with my kids on a daily basis.

What’s the hardest part about your fitness journey at the moment?

Waking up on Monday at 4:30am.  Once I do it and the workout is done, I never regret it!  Physical activity has never been the trouble.  Diet continues to be the big obstacle.  Working with the Progression Nutrition Program was a very helpful start.

What’s one thing you fellow CFP’ers would be surprised to learn about you?

I don’t think there are a lot of surprises about me.  Maybe that I used to be “fun”.  In fact, my husband refers to periods of our lives as… that was when you were “fun Jenn”.  I did win a “Name that song” competition on a huge stage Spring Break many years ago.  Glimpses of “fun Jenn” come out when I am alone in my car with Spotify blaring.  I do like music a lot.

What’s your favorite piece of advice you’ve gotten from a Coach or member at Progression?

My first year in the Open, Staci screamed at me during a workout, “How bad do you want it!?!?”.  When the workout is tough, exhausting… I go back to that to push through.

How has your outlook on health/fitness changed since starting at Progression?

I think participating in CrossFit has helped me maintain a positive outlook on my health.  It has helped me lose weight following three pregnancies and helped me through my last pregnancy in a very healthy and active way.  It has provided meaningful relationships and connections with people, and help keep my mental health and stress in check.  I am hopeful with a greater emphasis on diet with the InBody and Nutrition resources I will optimize my healthy this year.

What has been your fondest memory during your time at Progression?

Fondest memory was the first years… BootCamp, Christmas Parties, In-House Throwdowns.

Why do you think you’ve stuck with Progression?

I came back to Progression because of the MamaBears.  I am excited to work out with them again and be inspired by their badassery :), and maintain our friendships.  I’ll stick with Progression because the size of the gym, the availability of classes, the encouragement from others every morning.  Feels like home and I am glad to be back!

What would be your one piece of advice for someone who’s just joining Progression?

Keep walking through the doors.  Learn the movements properly to avoid injury.  Ask questions if you don’t know.  Find your own MamaBears… (i.e., pals to hold you accountable for coming to the gym daily).   It’s called Progression for a reason.  Don’t expect to master the snatch on the first day!  See ya around the gym!