You may see our February Athlete of the Month out enjoying the snow this Michigan winter. She is very easy to get along with and always fills your day with laughs. She is a hard worker and loves life. She always makes anyone feel welcome and makes the best hour of your day even better. New Athlete of the Month goes to… Danyelle Crooks!! She is always bringing the fire at our lunchtime class. Dany has a busy work schedule and still makes time for herself. She has really become more aware of strategy to keep herself moving, has been adding more fruits and veggies in her diet (smoothies have been her jam lately) and of course, is always jamming out to some music. If you hear her singing, jump on in with her. Dany definitely doesn’t hide behind the mountains, she moves them. Read more about Dany below.
Tell us about yourself.
Hey y’all! I’m Dany! I’m the bar manager at Plank’s Tavern in St. Joe and when I’m not working you can find me reading a book, writing, or outdoors. I grew up in South Florida and am new to the whole Michigander life, but I’m loving it so far. I’m obsessed with my dogs and will show you pictures even if you don’t want to see them!
How long have you been with Tides and what made you decide to start?
I’ve been with Tides a little over a year now. I decided to get back in the “Crossfit” game after traveling for five years for work and I needed a little motivation to kick some bad habits. I always had an “on and off” relationship with the gym and wanted to find a place to learn to be consistent!
When did you realize this gym was right for you?
The literal second I met Emily — she was (and still is) SO welcoming.
What were your thoughts after your first WOD?
I joined during the open in October of 2019, so I’m pretty sure I thought I might die at the very end. I just remember there being SO MANY double unders (which I obviously subbed.)
What is your favorite/least favorite WOD/movements?
Favorite movement: cleans! I just feel reeeeal strong! Least favorite: anything overhead!
What have you learned since joining Tides?
That I don’t have to be the strongest person in the room to be the strongest ME!
What is your proudest moment at Tides, or something you accomplished that you never thought you would do?
Feeling comfortable lifting heavy weight. I’ve always been afraid until joining Tides.
What motivates you during a tough workout?
Knowing how accomplished I’ll feel at the end.
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?
Seeing your body change in positive ways always has a positive impact on you mentally! That aside though, just knowing that I’m better than I was when I first “restarted” is enough to give me the push to see where I’ll be in another year, two, three, etc. CFT has impacted me in more ways than one. My personal favorite is being a part of a healthy community who pushes you to be the best YOU you can be.
Do you have any advice for people just getting started at Tides?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and don’t beat yourself up too bad if you feel you’re not where you want to be — you’ll get there!
When you’re not working out, what is your favorite thing to do?
Reading or writing! I’m a bit of a homebody sometimes (especially in the winter), so if I’m not out snowboarding you’ll find me cuddled up with a good book or writing away aimlessly… maybe one day I’ll actually write a book!
Are you pro Valentine’s Day? If so, what would you do on your perfect Valentine’s date?
I don’t care either way! I’m a February baby, so usually all the fun is focused on the first of the month and we’re wore out come V-Day! A perfect day would probably just be eating discount candy the next day 
Anything else you’d like to share?
If you’re looking for a sign to join the gym, THIS IS IT! Do it!
Quick Questions
Favorite Cheat Meal: Any kind of sweets or a nice juicy cheeseburger!
Favorite Musician/Band: Band – The Maine and Musician – Maren Morris
Favorite Sports Team: since I’m from Alabama it’s an easy choice, ROLLLLL TIIIIDE! 
Favorite TV Show/ Movie: New Girl. Nick is my spirit animal.
Favorite Athlete: I always joke about being Shaun White when I go snowboarding, so I’ll go with him since I don’t really have a “favorite.”
