June 2023 Athlete of the Month

A big congratulations to our TW Athlete of the Month… Colbey Kennedy

Colbey has been with us for over a year now and has grown to be a staple in the TW Community. She is consistently working out with us, growing as an athlete, and making us laugh along the way. Not only does Colbey always come with the jokes, but she brings the energy to every class she is in. She has a kind nature that makes those around her feel welcomed, and a humble work ethic that shines through everyday. She knows when to push herself, is extremely coachable, and constantly strives to get better in all aspects of fitness. We are so grateful to have someone like Colbey representing our gym and making our community a brighter place!

TW: Where are you from? 

Colbey: I am from a small town called Old Lyme CT, but have been in Boston since I was 18!

TW: What do you do for work? 

Colbey: I work for a tech company and manage a team of customer success managers

TW: How long have you been at Tradewinds?  

Colbey: I think I’ve been here just over a year!

TW: What motivated you to try Tradewinds? 

Colbey: I work from home and after two years of it, I lost all my self-motivation to lift weights. I also, due to medical reasons, couldn’t run long-distance run so I needed a new activity that came with a community of people to push me. After the first class, trying to Keep up with Andy, I couldn’t walk for a week so I knew I had to sign up.

TW: What group class do you usually attend? 

Colbey: I am either at 11:30 or 4 generally! If my schedule is hectic, I’ll try for 5 pm if needed.

TW: Did you have a fitness background prior to starting at Tradewinds? 

Colbey: I am a washed-up college volleyball player, turned marathoner, so I have a pretty good fitness background. That being said, I had NEVER lifted weights like I do here. I thought deadlifting my 20lb dumbells was tough before this.  If you hear me complaining in the gym normally I reference a previous volleyball or running injury to place the blame somewhere 🙂

TW: If you could program your dream WOD, what would it be? 

Colbey: I absolutely love (may get hate for this) back rack lunges and box squats. In terms of things I dislike: burpees and the assault bike. So any WOD that includes one of those two and excludes the other two, is a dream WOD!

TW: What is your proudest accomplishment since joining Tradewinds? 

Colbey: The first time I deadlifted more than my body weight was an amazing moment.

TW: How has Tradewinds helped you in your everyday life? 

Colbey: Honestly, it’s just helped my mental health so much. It helps me escape work for that hour and escape my house. It’s harder than it sounds to work from home due to a lack of social interaction. So I know if I am having a bad day, I can go to Tradewinds, and even if we are snatching – I know I am going to smile and laugh thanks to the coaches and people that are part of this gym.

TW: What do you like to do outside of the gym? 

Colbey: I spend more of my time with my dog as I’m obsessed. I also love to go to the beach and just adventuring – anything to be outside!

TW: What is your favorite song to work out to? 

Colbey: Gabby knows this all too well, but any song really from the greatest showman! Sorry for any of those who get subjected to working out to this playlist.

TW: What’s one thing you’d tell someone who is curious about trying Tradewinds but not sure if they could do it?

Colbey:  Just give it a try! You’ll be hooked quickly. Not just because the workouts are great, but because the people will keep you coming back!

AOM Closing Thoughts… 

Being a Tradewinds athlete has been amazing. I remember being very intimidated by everyone just casually throwing around hundreds of lb’s and I thought there was no way I would get there. Slowly over time, and through some forceful up-ing in weight by Colleen, Caren, and Gabby – I became one of those people. Not only has Tradewinds become a place for me to socialize, but it’s a place where I can feel strong. It was demoralizing when I got told I couldn’t run anymore, as that was my favorite thing in the world to do. I never thought I would find something I loved just as much, but I genuinely love coming to class – always the highlight of my day!