Tell us about yourself:

My name is Claudia, I’m 32yo, and I’m a counselor by profession. I am on a mission to improve my health, lose weight, and feel good in my body again so I can enjoy time with my friends and family.

How long have you been with CrossFit Tides and what made you decide to start?

 I started at CFT around the end of July and I was really looking for an alternative to weight loss surgery which felt really extreme in terms of the changes that I would have to make to my lifestyle. I met with Emily who is awesome and gave me the confidence to follow through on doing the personal training sessions. I’ve been coming 2-3 times per week ever since.

What do you enjoy most about Tides or CrossFit in general?

 I really enjoy the CrossFit workouts that combine the cardio and strength components. I hate doing cardio on its own but workouts are designed so that you won’t be running on a treadmill for an hour. I love the atmosphere at CFT because it really feels like everyone’s looking out for each other and rooting for everyone’s success.

What have you learned since joining Tides?

 I’ve learned how to complete exercises and movements in safe ways so that I’m not hurting my body. 

What is your proudest moment?

 My proudest moment was participating in the MURPH challenge. Despite needing a partner to help complete the exercises, it was something I never would’ve done if I hadn’t come to CFT.

How have you seen yourself change—mentally and physically—since joining Tides? What impact has CFT had on you in and out of the gym?

 I’ve seen myself become much more committed to exercising every week and moving more throughout my day. I feel like the people in classes come to know you and your routine so they’ll ask about you when you’re not in class. I really appreciate that kind of accountability because it helps build a team of people around you who are rooting for you. I’ve also seen myself choose more physical activities if I’m able to. I choose to walk, hike, try a Pilates class, and even go to Zumba on the beach because I enjoy moving my body more.

When you’re not CrossFitting what is your favorite thing to do?

 I love to do dance classes like Zumba and WERQ at the Y. I love to dance so it kills two birds with one stone when I get to have fun and burn calories.

The one tip you’d give someone who is thinking about starting or just started.

 I would tell them to find a routine and stick with it whether that means coming to one class or starting personal training. The coaches are great about scaling movements to your ability and fitness level, the other people in class are excited to be there and complete workouts with you, and the atmosphere is all about supporting each other and celebrating each other’s successes.

Anything else you’d like to share?

 I just want to thank Emily and everyone at CFT for making last July feel like it was just yesterday. I have really enjoyed coming into class and seeing myself grow and improve over time. It’s also been nice to watch my body change and get stronger with each passing month.

Quick Questions:

Favorite Cheat Meal: I love a big steak burrito bowl with extra meat and guacamole.

Favorite Musician/Band: Britney Spears (some of the best tunes to workout to)

Favorite Sports Team: Tampa Bay Lightning just because my father in law is a huge Red Wings fan.

Favorite TV Show/Movie: Stranger Things on Netflix

Favorite Athlete: Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson (I’m a child of the WWE Attitude Era so I can’t help it)