Wonder Woman, Bootcamp O.G., CFP Veteran.  You can call Kirsten many things but you’ve got to read on to hear her perspective on health and fitness to really understand how awesome she is.

What do you do for a living?

I’m an Informatics Nurse which is a nursing specialty that integrates nursing science, computer science, and information science.

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

I love shopping at Goodwill, Savers, and Salvation Army.  I buy quite a bit of my clothes second hand and rarely pay retail.  So if you see me wearing an outfit that looks familiar it was probably yours!

What made you decide to try CrossFit?

Coach Nicki is a family friend and encouraged us to try it so my husband and I joined the first Progression Bootcamp.  We were so impressed by the amazing coaches, the welcoming atmosphere, and the dedicated athletes… we were hooked right away.

Join our Next Boot camp! It starts September 12!  More information here:  Fall Boot Camp

How long have you been at CrossFit Progression?

18 months.

What was your experience with fitness prior to CrossFit?

We were members at another gym in town that had lots of equipment and classes but I found myself feeling lost and on my own spending a lot of time in the hot tub.  I need encouragement, motivation, and direction which CrossFit Progression provides.

What was your biggest fear when you started CrossFit?

I had a prior experience at a different gym with a trainer that made me feel like I was doing everything wrong and each time I left the gym feeling bad.  I was afraid CrossFit would be like that.  It totally is not!  On the contrary! I leave the gym feeling better than when I walked in; stronger and empowered.

Favorite cheat day meal?

My church has donuts and coffee every Sunday morning before the service.  There’s nothing better than a cup of coffee and a fresh maple glazed donut.

What goal(s) are you currently chasing?

I’d like to be able to do a pull up.  Also, my grandfather could walk on his hands well into his 60’s and I’d like to be able to do that.

What’s the hardest part about CrossFit?

Over the past year and a half, that “what’s the hardest part” answer has changed.  It used to be just getting there was hard but now I really look forward to going even if I read the workout ahead of time.  Now I would say the hardest part is focusing on my own goals and workouts and not comparing what I’m doing to someone else’s progress.  CrossFit has brought out a competitive side of me I didn’t know I had.  I need to compete against myself and not compare my times or weight with anyone else’s.  Writing things down in a workout journal does help.

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

I used to be a heavy smoker.   I smoked a pack a day for over 20 years.  I quit about 10 years ago but I still feel very short of breath during most workouts and feel like my breathing is what stops me from going faster, harder, etc.

What’s your favorite piece of advice you’ve gotten from a coach at CrossFit Progression?

That everything can be modified so anyone can do CrossFit.  That resonated with me because I worried I wouldn’t be able to do a lot of the movements.  It made trying new movements less intimidating.

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

Big muscles don’t come fast or easy and that healthy and fit come in many shapes and sizes.  I also see now that what I put in my body directly affects how my body reacts to workouts and how I’ll feel afterwards.

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

It would have to be the Women’s Wine and WOD last year when a few of us rocked the lip syncing.

Why do you think you’ve stuck with CrossFit Progression?

Without a doubt it’s the people.  I’m welcomed as soon as I walk in the door!  I absolutely love my workout friends (we call ourselves the Wonder Women) as well as all of our coaches.  I learn something new from each coach and class I attend.  I love being a part of such an inclusive, welcoming, and helpful group that ultimately has helped my physical and emotional wellbeing.

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

Start writing down your workouts; times, wieghts, and goals right away.  It’s hard to see how far you’ve come if you can’t remember where you started or what it took to get there.

Join our Next Boot camp! It starts September 12!  More information here:  Fall Boot Camp