Congratulations to our final incredible Athlete of the Month of 2018, Keri Belmore!  As you’ll understand after reading the Q&A below, Keri has been in the talks of being awarded Athlete of the Month the past few months for her hard work and commitment to a healthier lifestyle.  She’s an absolute rock star who stops at nothing to accomplish her goals!  Congrats again, Keri – much deserved!
  1. How did you first hear about CrossFit Firewall?

 

I saw someone I graduated High School with running along my street; she had just moved in the neighborhood.  I asked her where she worked out and how she remained so physically fit after having children.  Firewall’s very own Kerry Croft Peterson told me about CrossFit and helped me get to Firewall. 

 

  1. How long have you been a member?

 

15 months

 

  1. How did Firewall compare from your expectation to your reality?

 

Firewall is my first experience with CrossFit.  I really didn’t know what to expect but I wanted to find something that would motivate me to keep coming.  The reality has been that and so much more.  It didn’t take long  for me to get hooked.  The crew at Firewall helped me to not feel intimated, and I have made so many friends.  The workouts are always changing, and when you are working out with your friends, it is always fun!

 

  1. What is your favorite part about CrossFit Firewall?

 

Other than the diverse workouts and great friendships, I like focusing on the monthly challenges.  Whether it was the month of running miles or doing ab mat sit ups it was an activity I could do independently while adding my scores to the entire membership’s score.  BUT my number one favorite part is seeing what sock and sneaker combination Bucky, Dave and Damon have put together for the day.

 

  1. What would you tell one of your friends if they expressed interest in giving CrossFit a shot?

 

I have already told several friends about CrossFit and Firewall.  I would tell them to come to Firewall for a trial class.  That it is not as intimidating as you would think, that all the workouts can be modified to individual levels.

 

  1. What’s your proudest accomplishment in the gym since joining? Outside of the gym?

 

PULL-UPS!  Seems like it took me forever to be able to do a strict or kipping pull up! Outside of the gym… I would say the 5K on Thanksgiving.  I used to run a lot, but after becoming a Mom (12 years ago),  I just stopped.  Happy to say I am (slowly) getting into again. 

 

  1. Why do you continue to CrossFit?

 

Many reasons, but mostly to continue to get stronger and increase my endurance.  The strength I have gained so far has improved my performance and confidence in my career.  And as a female in a male dominated profession, that has become empowering.

 

  1. How has your fitness gained from inside the gym, effected your daily life outside the gym?

 

I drink a lot more water and have become mindful of nutrition which has increased my energy level and mood. 

 

  1. Do your kids CrossFit?

 

Of course!!  Both my 11 year old daughter and 6 year old son have become members!  Kayla is very enthusiastic to learn about CrossFit and fitness.  Jack enjoys going to CrossFit and will do any work out as long as it doesn’t involve burpees.

 

  1. What do you hope to achieve inside and outside the gym in 2019?

 

Where do I begin? I hope to be able to do more handstand push-ups, double unders and toes-to-bar.  But most importantly, I hope to remain healthy throughout the year so I can continue to go to Firewall.

 

  1. What’s your favorite place you’ve ever traveled and why?

 

I have to say Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. It was a warm and peaceful week.  It was also my honey moon so that made it extra memorable. 

 

  1. What’s your spirit animal and why?

 

I had to ask some friends about this one!  A Tiger would definitely be my spirit animal.  A tiger has determination, courage and strength.  But also can be unpredictable and spontaneous with actions and life’s decisions in general.  Which makes me sounds borderline crazy… but lot’s of fun!