Agghhh, the last month of summer can always be a bit sad. But something to  brighten your spirits can be the smile and positive spirit of our September Athlete of the Month Hailey Richards!! Hailey is always very active in our community as well as at the gym. She is always consistent at coming to the outdoor classes and has made huge progress. Hailey always has something positive to say even being on the Assault bike for a 12:00 calorie test Please read more below about Hailey and get to know what makes her such a great addition to our Tides family and an inspiration to us all!

I am originally from Bad Axe, MI, and I gradually made my way to southwest Michigan. I graduated from Saginaw Valley State University with a B.S. in Exercise Science, so I’ve had a passion for fitness for quite a while! I actually used to teach fitness classes at both SVSU and U of M! While I have a passion for exercise science, I also have a passion for policy and people, so I moved to Ann Arbor to obtain my Master of Social Work at U of M. I’ve now been in southwest Michigan for about a year, and while I grew up on Lake Huron, I have to admit, Lake Michigan is even more beautiful

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

I started at Tides in October 2019. I started the same week I started my new job because I fell in love with functional fitness while at Wolverine Strength and Conditioning in Ann Arbor. I was ready to get back into a routine!

When did you realize this gym was right for you?

Emily and Brian were so welcoming! I knew I wanted to be a part of the community when they invited me to join them for a post-workout event before I was even an official member!

What were your thoughts after your first WOD?

Probably something along the lines of “I’m exhausted…but I’m hungry for more!” (Sounds like all of us!)

What is your favorite/least favorite WOD/movements?

Favorite: anything with running . My fellow Tides community members count on me showing up for the WOD when there’s running involved. Example: Murph. Least favorite: probably power snatch or overhead squat

What have you learned since joining Tides?

I had a really bad experience when I joined a competition back in undergrad and seriously injured my back. That being said, I’ve learned it’s okay to modify. The coaches are great at helping to modify or even completely change the workout for you when needed (thanks Chanelle and Karie ).

What is your proudest moment at Tides, or something you accomplished that you never thought you would do?

Recently, we figured out our one rep deadlift max. I was proud of my new one rep max because I was not expecting to lift as much as I did. The wodify prediction based on my past workouts was way lighter than what I actually accomplished!

What motivates you during a tough workout?

The coaches and the community! We cheer each other on, and even when we are too out of breath to cheer, knowing that we are all struggling together keeps me going! The toughest workouts seem to help us bond the most!

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?

In the gym, I’ve begun to focus more on myself and my own goals for the WOD, rather than focusing on what everyone else is accomplishing. I compete against myself, which has helped me grow mentally and physically.
Outside of the gym, I’ve become much more confident in my own skin. I feel strong .

Do you have any advice for people just getting started at Tides?

Just show up! The coaches will help you modify where needed, and everyone is so supportive. And as I say for any new workout regime, give it at least three weeks of consistency, and you’ll be hooked ! It takes time and practice to get used to anything new

When you’re not working out, what is your favorite thing to do?

Go to the beach, play soccer, long walks, spend time with friends and family, board games, book club discussions, community events

Anything else you’d like to share?

I have a long-haired calico cat named Ella who was a former stray. She may be a scaredy cat but she’s so sweet and silly

Quick Questions

Favorite Cheat Meal: Silver Beach Garlic Greek or Margherita GF Pizza

Favorite Musician/Band: Pretty much anything, but most often you’ll find me listening to rap or metal (Meek Mill, Drake, Asking Alexandria, Beartooth to name a few!)

Favorite Sports Team: Michigan Wolverines #forevergoblue

Favorite TV Show/ Movie: right now it’s Schitt$ Creek (ew David!)

Favorite Athlete: Megan Rapinoe, Dean Karnazes