Veronique joined us in December of 2010, right before we moved from our old gym location. She had already made incredible strides with her health and fitness goals, but she was looking for a new challenge, and CrossFit looked like something that could fit the bill!
She has worked steadily over the past year and a half, spent 8 weeks in the Oly Club improving her weightlifting, and now is also a member of Team Faster - the endurance club. Last week in particular, she really showed the 'eye of the tiger' focus that is needed to lift performance to a new level.
V is also always one of the first to approach new members and welcome them to our community.
We'd like to acknowledge her efforts with our Athlete Recognition.
How did you discover CrossFit?
I had heard about it through friends. Checked it out on YouTube, thought “These people are crazy, I would never be able to do workouts like these”. Then a friend invited me to support her doing Fight Gone Bad. This made me think “Wow! This IS crazy. But it looks like sooo much fun… I should give it a try…” I signed up for the free Saturday trial, the seven minute workout simultaneously killed me and exhilarated me. I signed up for Intro on the Monday.
Favourite CrossFit exercise?
I love heavy lifting. Deadlifts and back squat.
CrossFit exercise that you're not so fond of?
Burpees. I have yet to encounter anyone who loves burpees.
What changes in your health, physique and performance have you observed since starting CrossFit?
Ooh…. So many changes. I have never been stronger in my life, I remember the days when a heavy back squat was 30kg, now a sensible weight for multiple reps is 60kg. I also remember when I could not get squat depth. I did not believe that I ever would get there. I’m there now.
I used to be terribly clumsy, I would trip over air. Now I have massively improved coordination and balance. The difference is so remarkable that I feel like a ninja! A ninja, I tell you!
Crossfit has taught me to be brave, to test my perceived boundaries, and to work hard(er).
What is one word that people use to describe you?
Fiercely loyal. (Okay, that’s two words but the superlative is appropriate.)
What advice would you give to someone with regards to starting CrossFit?
First of all, do not put it off. Start now! Crossfit is for everyone. Secondly, be realistic about your ability and fitness. There are no shortcuts, this is for life. This is about you. Do not measure your progress against others. And finally, you will be part of an amazing, supportive community that appreciates how much work it takes to hit those CrossFit milestones.
Something nobody knows about you or would be surprised to know about you?
This may come as a complete surprise but I love! Love! Love! people. I have a passion for helping people grow. I am working towards being a life coach. I do some coaching now. My favourite topics are personal transformation and joy at work.
Favorite activity outside of CrossFit?
I love to cook for people.
Favorite place to eat a Paleo-ish meal in Auckland?
I’ve got to give a shout out to the wonderful people at Columbus Glen Innes. How many cafes can you ask to blend butter into a short black for you and they do it? (Not that I’ve tried this exciting beverage, but you know who you are… DC and Bo…). Paleo Breakfast with the CFNZ crew after a Saturday morning workout has to be one of my favourite things.
The song that gets you pumped up for a workout?
Nothing in particular, as long as it is loud and has a beat.
The last thing you ate?
Would be the chicken and cabbage lunch that I took out of my deep freeze stock of readymade meals
Proudest accomplishment at CrossFit?
Wow… so many… my first rope climb, my first pullup, my first competition… A whole list of firsts. The cool thing is there are still going to be many more “firsts”.
What are your goals for 2012?
The first half of 2012 was about recovery from a torn hamstring. The second half has been focussed on improving my running (Yay! For Crossfit Endurance!). I am chasing a 120kg deadlift. I put that number on the board last year when we were asked what Crossfit gift was on our wish list for Santa. At the time I thought it would be impossible, now I know it is possible.
Which CFNZ member inspires you the most?
We have many super star athletes at CFNZ who are truly inspiring. But I would have to say the people who inspire me most are the new members fresh out of Intro whose journey I get to be a part of. It is so exciting to train with someone who goes from being nervous under the bar to being amazing. I get a bit emotional when I think of the wonderful women who have become Fierce! That’s pure inspiration.
Workout
Skill practice
L-sits
Cartwheels
Rope Climbs
Ring Dips
Then,
Sled drag 200m 20/10kg
5 rounds of
-15 KBS 24/16kg
-10 Wallballs 9/6kg
Sandbag run 400m
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