Get To Know Nastya Murry – Progression Fitness

Two things: auto correct isn’t cool enough for a world with Nastya in it yet (just try it) and if you get between this girl and her snacks you’re in for a world of hurt. All jokes aside… Nastya is a really happy, really sweet, really strong chick. Get a glimpse into the life of Nastya!

What do you do for a living?

Most days I feel like I am a therapist and social worker but my job title is a Program Coordinator for kids & adults with disabilities.

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

SLEEP and EAT of course! Ha-ha on a serious note I do enjoy spending quality time with my husband Rob and our son, Ethan. I love to go hiking in the woods with my dog, Luna. I also love to garden, travel, go camping, grocery shop and participate in mission trips.

What made you decide to try CrossFit?

My husband drank the “CrossFit Kool-Aid” and I assume he thought I would like it too, so he bugged me until I eventually said yes.

How long have you been at Progression?

About a year and a half.

What was your experience with fitness like prior to CrossFit?

Should I count elementary or middle school? 🙂 If so, I did gymnastics, wrestling, basketball, t-ball, volleyball, softball, and soccer . In High school I participated in track and soccer. In College, I did track, Cross Country, and some more soccer.

What was your biggest fear when you started CrossFit?

I didn’t have any fears when I started CrossFit; I was clueless as to what the concept of CrossFit was all about. My only thoughts on CrossFit were regarding the people who were doing it. I thought they were overly obsessed with their times and their PR’s for no reason.

Favorite cheat day meal?

I don’t believe in a “cheat day meal”. If I am craving something I WILL eat it. ( Yes, I am that person who eats and stays somewhat small. My husband hates me for this. ) I love my bread, cereal, ice cream, and triple chocolate meltdown. I <3 food! This list could go on forever so I’m going to stop here so that I don’t bore you with a list of what I love to eat.

What goal(s) are you currently chasing?

If you asked me this question a year ago (before I had my son) I would have said, “10 unbroken muscle ups, 50 unbroken pull-ups, Clean and Jerk 215 pounds and snatch 165 pounds. But my priorities have changed since having Ethan. Currently, my goal is finding balance between time to work out and spending time with my husband and my son.

What’s the hardest part about CrossFit?

The hardest part of CrossFit for me is knowing how much weight I have on my bar. (This is usually how I PR) Also, counting my reps in a workout, especially when it comes to double-unders.

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

I was placed in a Russian orphanage when I was 3 months old, was adopted when I was 6 years old, and came to America pretty much on my own.

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

If you are failing your lifts more than 2 times, drop your weights and work on your technique.

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

Since joining CFP I truly enjoy coming to the gym and working out and talking to all the people.

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

CFP does an amazing job hosting Friday night lights for the CrossFit Open.

Why do you think you’ve stuck with Progression?

The gym is clean
They have quality coaches
I have not been injured since I’ve joined and I’ve noticed if anyone was injured CFP does not act like they are jack-of-all trades. They would refer you to a qualified health professional for treatment of injuries.
Didn’t feel like I was judged
CFP makes donations to local organizations
The community is pretty amazing too!

You just had a baby, congrats! Why did you choose to continue CrossFit at Progression during your pregnancy?

WOOT WOOT! Thanks! 🙂 I’ve been active my whole life and it never occurred to me that I would stop working out. It also helped that my husband and I work opposite shifts so the only way I would see him is at the gym when he is coaching . I also have a stressful job and no cable at the house so CrossFit was an amazing tool to release stress and frustration.

What was the toughest part about pregnant lady WOD’ing for you?

The toughest part of pregnant lady WOD’ing would have to be breathing! I was so used going as fast I could but being pregnant I had to slow my pace down to be able to maintain steady breathing and not overdo it. I also needed some modifications when it came to weights and pull ups due to my diastasis recti (ab separation). Which I am currently seeing a physical therapist to fix this issue.

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

I know this is more than one piece of advice but I think they are all important to me.

If you are an individual who is very competitive, a know it all, and have an athletic background, check your ego at the door.
If you are new to CrossFit, don’t be afraid to ask the coaches if you are not sure about something. No question is a dumb question. It shows the coaches that you are willing to learn and you want to do it right.
Listen to your body.
Try to talk to your fellow peers, it will make the class more enjoyable.
But most importantly have FUN!