Growing up, I was always incredibly active. I was super lucky to grow up in Pennsylvania where there were lots of open green spaces, woods, and parks. I liked to fill my days with being outside, playing tag, and building forts. As I got into middle school and high school I added swimming and field hockey to my repertoire. Though, once college came around I hardly ever found myself at the gym or doing anything more active than enjoying a brisk walk to town. Following college, I was itching to get back into something active–I always liked how I felt when I was playing sports or running around outside. I tried joining a commercial gym–those got exhausting and boring quick after I was doing the same thing day in and day out. Then I tried barre, yoga, and pilates–none of those stuck either. I picked up running and that stuck! Over the next few years, I ended up running several half marathons and even a marathon in 2018. As soon as I crossed that finish line at 26.2 miles, I was like “OK–what’s next??”. 

 

Two weeks after my marathon, I walked into CrossFit Veracity Athletics scared out of my mind and intimidated only to find the kindest, most helpful, and the friendliest competitive environment a person could ask for. I stayed at Veracity as long as I have because I love the skills I’ve attained, the way my health has improved, the benefits it has brought to my running, and most importantly the community of friends I’ve cultivated over the last few (nearly six!!) years.

 

In late 2021, I decided to pursue my L1 CrossFit Certification, passed, and began coaching in May 2022. Coaching not only deepened my love and appreciation for this sport, but  it allows me to coach those in our community into being better athletes while having a lot of fun.