January’s Athlete of the Month is Christina!
Christina, or Big T, is one of CFT’s Originals – a group of athletes who started at Tradewinds on Day 1. She’s really cranked it up to the next level in the past year, and it shows! She’s been making some great gains and is a prime example of what’s possible when you push out of what’s comfortable to you. Let’s hear more!
Athlete Interview
CFT: Where are you from?
Christina: West Haven, CT
CFT: How long have you been doing CrossFit?
Christina: I started coming regularly when Tradewinds opened, but I really didn’t start to get serious with the weights until about a year ago
CFT: Did you have a fitness background prior to starting CrossFit?
Christina: I did cheerleading and figure skating growing up- after that I ran, which I dislike.
CFT: What motivated you to try CrossFit?
Christina: Leo (my husband) was obsessed with CrossFit so I figured I should give it a shot; I was also looking for something to help me get stronger and build muscle!
CFT: What are your favorite exercises, movements or WODs?
Christina: A long and sweaty metcon, deadlifts and cleans.
CFT: What is your proudest accomplishment since joining CFT?
Christina: Being able to power snatch, and getting better at wall balls!
CFT: How has CFT helped you in your everyday life?
Christina: I feel healthier and have a lot more energy – I feel physically better overall. Mentally- it’s been great for reducing stress after a long day! Yay endorphins!
CFT: Speaking of endorphins and things that make you feel good, what do you like to do outside of the gym?
Christina: Being with friends and family, science, makeup, and food!
CFT: What is your favorite song to workout to?
Christina: Anything upbeat; usually rap… or Phil Collins’ “In The Air Tonight” drum break on repeat.
CFT: That IS an epic drum break. Got anything else you’d like to say to our community?
Christina: I love being part of this community and look forward to seeing everyone at the end of my day. The support from the coaches and my fellow athletes has helped me accomplish so much more than I thought I would. I love that small goals are celebrated – and everyone pushes each other forward through encouragement (and sometimes tough love). For me as soon as I stopped worrying about what I could do, and just started doing it, I noticed amazing changes in myself and my confidence as an athlete. I have had trouble sticking with exercise programs in the past, have gotten bored, haven’t really felt like I fit in. I can say that because of the friends I’ve made and community here it has helped me stay committed because I feel like I’m not showing up for just myself- but for and with everyone else as well! Go team!
Go team, indeed! Congratulations Big T! Keep it up!