Tradewinds would like to congratulate our October 2025 Athlete of the month… the wonderful Carmen Dinca!
Carmen has been with us since 2020 and is still going stronger than ever! She is one of the most determined and dedicated athletes we have seen in our space. She loves to push herself towards more challenging movements, heavier weights, as well as new and exciting goals and we love seeing her crush it. She is the first person to offer support and help to her fellow athletes, is extremely compassionate and also loves to surprise us with stories of her truly fascinating life. When you’re working out with Carmen you have a friend, someone who will encourage you, and someone who will root for you. She is one of a kind and we are truly just so proud to have her. Thanks Carmen, keep up the incredible work!
TW: Where are you from?
Carmen: Born in Romania, but also lived in Athens, Greece for three years before moving to Boston
TW: What do you do for work?
Carmen: Director Consulting Delivery for an IT consulting firm
TW: How long have you been at Tradewinds?
Carmen: Going on five years now, all peppered with a variety of fun activities
TW: What motivated you to try Tradewinds?
Carmen: I was looking to add more upper body strength and update my routine
TW: What group class do you usually attend?
Carmen: I am a huge fan of the 11:30AM class, but Tradewinds makes it very easy to attend one of the many classes offered on a daily basis. When my days get away from me I attend the 5PM
TW: Did you have a fitness background prior to starting at Tradewinds?
Carmen: I love running. It is my happy place. Adding weight training to my routine has improved my running form and timing
TW: If you could program your dream WOD, what would it be?
Carmen: It would definitely involve some sort of barbell exercise…cleans are my favs
TW: What would your dream meal be?
Carmen: Anything my mom makes. She’s an amazing cook. If I were to choose one meal, then it would be a Romanian dish called Sarmale (stuffed cabbage/sauerkraut) followed by a desert called Amandina (chocolate cake and rum) paired with a red wine, Pinot preferably
TW: What is your proudest accomplishment since joining Tradewinds?
Carmen: When I joined Tradewinds I had very little upper body strength, and the point was for me to work on that. I now can see my arms are getting toned and things like picking up my stubborn Boston Terriers who are ~40lbs has become so easy its like second nature. Also love gardening, and it was such a pleasant surprise when I had to move some potted plants and did not have to ask for help. I cheered myself on then told everyone I know.
TW: How has Tradewinds helped you in your everyday life?
Carmen: Getting stronger and feeling stronger affects every aspect of life. Promotes good routines, helps with sleep and I consider the hour we spend together in the gym as both mental and physical therapy. This is my me time to just zone out and trust that by the end of the class I will be that much stronger, more relaxed, and ready to get back to the grind. So long as I make the effort to just show up. On days when I don’t have the time or energy this is my mantra: ‘Just show up’ and I am always glad I did.
TW: What do you like to do outside the gym?
Carmen: Love walking our dogs and running.
TW: What is your favorite song to workout to?
Carmen: Depends on the mood, but I have been adding some older music by Alabama Shakes (Sound &Color album), The Pretty Reckless (Going to Hell album) and Avenged Sevenfold (Nightmare album) to my playlist
TW: What’s one thing you’d tell someone who is curious about trying Tradewinds but not sure if they could do it?
Carmen: Just show up. You will be covered once you’re through those doors.
AOM Closing Thoughts…
I started my Tradewinds journey all those years ago because it was convenient, close to home but stayed because I saw results. I used to go to class two, three times a week but recently I decided to increase my attendance to three or four times a week. What a difference did that make! Everything gets easier when you feel stronger. Also unexpectedly enjoyable are the bonds we form here that go beyond the gym doors. Coaches are all super caring, upbeat and are ready and willing to work with whatever maybe going on with you that day. A fun and supportive environment!
