Kathy Van Voorhees

The Member Spotlight showcases those who demonstrate the characteristics necessary for success, both in and out of the gym. Kathy joined the gym back in June last year, and quickly found herself near the top of the Commitment Club list, regularly attending 5-6 days/week. We asked her some questions about her CrossFit journey so far:

1.   What led you to CrossFit? Describe your experience.

I turned to CrossFit because I wanted the structure and accountability to build strength that I would not get on my own and wasn’t getting through other programs. I tried other programs, which were good (at first), but I felt as if I plateaued and there was no room for progression. A friend, who is heavy into CrossFit, invited me to drop in on a class one weekend with a WOD consisting of rowing, pushups, air squats, ring rows, and assault bike. I totally thought I could handle it…body weight? Easy! Nope. I totally could not handle it. Nevertheless, it opened me up to programming that left me feeling like I actually accomplished something! It was exactly the motivation I needed to join a local box.

2.   What have been the most significant changes you've noticed? These could be lifestyle, body composition, or performance.

CrossFit primarily changed my attitude in two respects: First, I’ve learned that whenever I have a mental block or make assumptions about my fitness level or skill set, there is no harm in simply trying an exercise/movement once. I just may surprise myself! Second, there are small wins everywhere. Any little improvement in form/weight/speed is a win and if I fail, there is always next time.

3.   What's your favorite (or least favorite) exercise? If you could program a workout, what would it be?

Deadlifts! I notice the most improvement with deadlifts than with any other CrossFit exercise, which is incredibly encouraging. As far as programming, I lean toward any workout that couples a low-rep, heavy lift/PR with a cardio component to jack up that heart rate; just not with assault bikes...if all assault bikes were tossed into a volcano, the world would be a better place.

4.   Tell us something we don't know about you! Something not fitness related.

I low key want to try to win an eating contest/challenge - one chip challenge, 12-egg omelet, 20 sliders, hottest buffalo wings - that sort of thing.

5.   What's next? Have you set any goals for the future?

As silly as this sounds, performing an unassisted pull up is a fitness milestone I would like to reach this year!