Details about The Hill’s disaffiliation from CrossFit

The Hill Kansas City will disaffiliate.

I made the decision late Friday night to remove The Hill’s affiliation with CrossFit HQ. Upon investigation I learned that Greg Glassman’s comments were not an isolated or misunderstood incident. Reputable and first-person accounts have confirmed that Greg’s character flaws infiltrated the organization at the highest level. I hope that the removal of our affiliation is a small signal that unethical behavior is intolerable.

I won’t go into the details of Greg’s comments or conduct. I find it reprehensible but encourage you to come to your own conclusions.

Have I supported this behavior?

Many members of CrossFit affiliates worldwide are asking themselves “by being a CrossFit member have I supported this type of behavior?”

I’m here to tell you unequivocally no.

We will be forced to reconcile an uncomfortable reality we’ve known throughout history. That sometimes people with poor moral character sometimes pave a path to tremendous good. It’s a messy truth. But it’s a truth nonetheless.

This is true for Greg. I was drawn to CrossFit for two reasons: 1. The methodology is more efficient, effective, and elegant than anything I’ve seen in 16 year of coaching. 2. The affiliation model provided a level of freedom unmatched by any other program.

So, no. You weren’t supporting Greg. The percentage of your membership that found it’s way to CFHQ was much less than 1%. But, now, that’s too much.

Prior to opening The Hill I worked as a disability advocate for a local nonprofit. I got a lot of pats on the back for having a nice job title that made me feel nice about doing good in the world. But I was unsatisfied. Not by the work, but by the handcuffs of bureaucracy, grants, and politics. My life’s work has always been to help people live long, full lives. I realized that CrossFit would help more people stay out of nursing homes than any of the political advocacy work I was doing at the time.

In the last 8 years of running The Hill, I’ve given away 10 times more cash benefit to people with disabilities than I did working in disability advocacy. I’ve had 500 conversations about how CrossFit has helped people feel proud of what their body can do and less worried about how it looks. Dozens of conversations about how CrossFit has been integral in one’s recovery. CrossFit helps manage depression for thousands of people, including myself. Countless future generations have benefitted from one person stepping through the doors of an affiliate, ready to take control of their health.

This is what you have supported. You have provided haven to hurting people. You have provided jobs. You have helped at least one special ed teacher afford food and supplies for her classroom.

The class you take will no longer be called CrossFit. But we’re still CrossFitters. That identity cannot be taken away by one clown. A CrossFitter is someone who chooses the difficult path; someone who completes all 15 reps in the second round of Fran. A CrossFitter doesn’t hit snooze for the 6am class. We’re resilient, loving, and we’re willing to set out ego aside.

Will you ever re-affiliate?

As of right now, there will need to be sweeping changes within the organization in order for me to reconcile with CFHQ. The first of those is 100% divestiture of Greg’s stake in the company. In addition to that I would like to see the affiliate community have a greater voice and more transparency at the corporate level.

I feel as betrayed and confused as you. But I also feel strangely amazed at how much good the affiliate model has created in this world. I would venture to say that no single organization has given rise to more charitable activity than CrossFit. Of the 1,500 or so affiliate owners I’ve known personally through the years, there is not a single one whose business model does not contain some type of community service program. I struggle to name another organization with such a strong track record for service. But this activity occurred at the affiliate level, not from above. We’re stronger together and I hope to join forces again one day.

In the meantime, let’s unify. Let’s band together and do the hard work. Let’s stop casting stones. We all want unity, equality, and a better world for the next generation. Let’s start acting like it.

Be Like Water

I don’t know what to do about systemic racism in America. I never imagined that I would need to formulate a statement on behalf of our community. I feel ill-equipped and under-educated. I have no idea the pain, suffering, and fear that many in this country have lived under for generations.

And that’s my fault.

It took 8 minutes and 46 seconds of utter horror for me to learn that Black Lives Matter.

And that’s where we are at The Hill.

Confused. Fractured. Sad.

Greg Glassman — the founder of CrossFit — made some abhorrent, racist, and insensitive statements. He stepped down, issued an apology, and CrossFit is now under new leadership. Since then over 1,000 — roughly 7% — CrossFit gyms have disassociated themselves from the brand.

I’ve been asked what The Hill plans to do.

First, we denounce these abhorrent statements.

Second, we expect more — much more — than simply a CEO-swap.

Third, we will continue to provide a caring & honest environment for you regardless of name.

If we do not feel that CrossFit makes sweeping, systemic changes to their operating system we will remove our affiliation from the brand.

I’ve received countless, varied opinions from dozens of people over the last 48 hours. Each justified. Each valid. Each confident in their assessment of the situation. I believe my role is to reflect the values of our community in our business. In this case, there does not seem to be a clear consensus. So I must refer back to our mission statement:

To build an inclusive community of positive, hardworking, and humble people who live long, full lives.

Build an inclusive community.

You step through the door you’re family. Families disagree, fight, grow resentful and — through that struggle — develop a stronger love and appreciation for one another.

Positive.

See the good. See redemption. Forgive.

Hardworking.

Anything worth having will be difficult and take time.

Humble.

I don’t have all the answers.

Long lives.

We’ll fight chronic disease with ferocity.

Full lives.

Do more. See more. Have fun with friends. Don’t take yourself too seriously.

Those are the values that I’ll use to guide our community. I don’t know what that looks like but it’s the rubric I’ll use.

The Hill is here for you. Not to be some savior or expert. But to get messy, sweaty, fall down, and get back up. I’ll do better to keep you informed as our plans progress.

Any misstep you see from The Hill is not a reflection on our partners, our staff, or our members.

It is my fault.

I’m here listening. Swing by and grab a coffee.

Matt Scanlon
Founder

Getting to Know : Kia Cunningham – TheHillKC’s Evening Front Desk Manager

“Kia is TheHill’s newest team member. You will see her in the evenings managing the front desk and greeting all of the clients that come into our space. She also works for Wes Hamilton with Disabled But Not Really, so you’ll see her helping out with the disabled athletes we are blessed to know. Kia’s background of customer service is a huge asset to our community. Say hi, introduce yourself, and make her feel welcome.”

What’s your name? Any fun nicknames?
Makia Cunningham, Mac, Kia or Kiki

What did you want to be when you grew up?
Marine Biologist

Where did you grow up?
All over, I was a military brat

What was your favorite subject/activity in school?
Science

Weird part time job you had in the past?
It’s not weird but I worked on a ranch in high school

Favorite movie? Favorite line from that movie?
Howl’s Moving Castle “A heart’s a heavy burden”

Got any hidden talents?
I can name all 50 states in alphabetical order and name all books of the bible in order

What do you like about KC?
The bbq

What is the name of your business?
The HillKC & Disabled But Not Really(DBNR)

What is your profession? “What do you do?”
For TheHillKC – Evening Front Desk Manager
For DBNR – Administrative Assistant

How did you get connected with The Hill?
Through DBNR

What motivates you in your craft?
I love paperwork and organizing

What is one thing you wished everyone knew about your profession?
It’s not always as easy as it looks

Anything you’d like to share with The Hill?
I’m a big comicon nerd

 

Natalie Dees: Featured Athlete of January

“Getting to know Natalie, and see her grow as an athlete and a human, has been an honor and a privilege. I love seeing the transformation of exercise and nutrition as punishment, to exercise and nutrition as a form of  celebration to what your body is capable of. Natalie has made that transformation in herself, but also outwardly expresses self-acceptance and love to everyone around her. Encouraging of everyone who takes a class with her, celebratory of everyone’s victories. I couldn’t be happier to have Natalie in our community!” -Coach Brianna

Your Name? 
Natalie Dees

What is your favorite color?
Black 🙂

What would your superpower be?

Always being temperate. No one likes to be sweaty for no reason.
What is your spirit animal?

Probably an otter…they just seem like they’re having a lot of fun
Row? Bike? Run? Ski? Why?
Row mostly because I’m good at it and doing things you’re good at is generally enjoyable.
What is your favorite CrossFit movement and/or workout?
Ohhh so difficult – I’d say any oly lift really just gets me going.
Favorite cheat meal in KC?
I don’t believe in “cheat” meals; but, that’s a whole different conversation so I’ll say tacos from Rico Lupe’s (at least 5).
When did you start working out at The Hill?
January 2016
What were some of the emotional or physical challenges you were having before you started at CrossFit Memorial Hill?

Before The Hill I exercised exclusively for weight loss and without realizing it that’s how I valued myself and it was completely consuming, so I feel like in turn I was pretty self centered. Now I measure my success based on what I can do and it’s a really interesting shift that has had a positive affect on my life in general and how I relate to and treat other humans. We’re all a little bit vain; but, my time at The Hill has helped me realize that what I look like is honestly the least interesting thing about me and I have a lot more to offer and so does everyone else. Still waiting for abs though – maybe in 2020.
What did the frustration feel like as you tried to solve those challenges before you started at The Hill?

It was really just a hamster wheel before, feeling like you could never get ahead. I would set some arbitrary goal for myself “if I lose 5 lbs, I’ll be content” or “if I can do a 300 lb deadlift, I’ll be happy with my fitness” and of course, you check whatever it is off the list and you don’t feel more content or happy. I think we compare ourselves to one another by nature so I slip back into that thought pattern sometimes; but, having a community of genuinely nice and supportive people around you every single day helps feed that positivity that is very grounding.
How have you seen those challenges improve since joining The Hill? What does life looks like now?

I think it’s all a perspective thing – I value different things. For example, over the past holiday season, did I crush workouts and nail it in the nutrition department? Definitely not. Did I have the most fun with my friends and family? Hellz yeah. Now that the holidays are over I’m not going to feel bad about it and I don’t regret it. Really, I’m just living my best life over here and sometimes that looks like buckling down because I want to reach a fitness goal and other times it looks like drinking too much tequila and going to brunch. Neither are better than the other and neither make me a better or worse person. In conclusion, I’m here for doing whatever makes you happy whenever you feel like it. Thank you for coming to my TED talk.
How is The Hill different than other gyms you’ve been to?

There are a hundred things that I could say; but, for me the most important one is just that everyone at The Hill is really kind. Everyone has positive intent and really cares about the people around them.
What keeps you coming back? And where do you find your motivation when the workout looks difficult?

I can’t say I’m always motivated; but, showing up everyday is a force of habit that generally is pretty easy to get myself to do because I just like hanging out with everyone. When a workout is especially crappy and I’m really in the mood to push myself mentally and physically I think it’s just about making that choice. You make the choice, do it, and feel good about it. But, to be honest sometimes I’m not about it and I just show up, get through it, and check the box. Even if I’m not completing a workout “to my full potential”, I’m still better than I was before.
How do you make working out fit into your busy schedule?
Prioritization. Sometimes you have to be late to a happy hour or get up an hour early to workout in the morning; but, if it’s important you do it.
What would you say to someone thinking about starting CrossFit?

Here…..have some of this Kool-aid. And then I’d say, just give it a shot. If you’ve never done it before you won’t know if you like it until you try it. I think it’s kind of like getting a new job, you’re going to be a little bit scared or intimidated at first because it’s new, but you made that decision because ultimately you felt like it was a good fit and you’ll feel comfortable before you know it if it was the right thing it do.
What are some of your goals in or out of the gym? Personal Records or achievements that you’re proud of?

2020 – new year, new me. Just kidding. This year I’m going to pick a new skill or movement every month and dedicate time outside of class to improving that skill. I’m not great at motivating myself outside of the class setting, so I want to be a little more independent in that way. Also, I really want to get rid of things I don’t need and work on being more organized.
Anything else you would like to share with our #fitfam?

Welcome to all of our new athletes, and I’m excited to see what 2020 has in store for everyone 🙂 I love you all and we’re bringing back brunch after Saturday workouts.

Getting to Know More About : Sacred Roots Holistic Healing – Ryan Brown

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Ryan Owner, LMT, GTS
About Sacred Roots Holistic Healing:

Our goal is to provide customized massage sessions with an emphasis on relaxation, recovery or restorative results. Partnering with many health and wellness providers, we work with our clients to build wellness plans that stress the importance of preventative care. Come achieve balance of mind, body and spirit in a clean, safe, professional environment at Sacred Roots Holistic Healing. Let us help get you back to the BEST YOU possible!!!

Practicing since 2012 Ryan is proficient in many massage modalities.

He specializes in therapeutic/medical massage techniques such as Craniosacral Therapy, Trigger Point, Structural Integration, Myofascial Release, Sports Massage and Stretch Therapy.

Additionally, Ryan is Reiki, Prenatal, Lomi Lomi and Japanese Medical Massage certified. With many other continuing education classes and certifications under his belt, Ryan’s newest certifications are Graston Technique and Gua Sha. Both incorporate instruments that assist in treatments of scar tissue and fascial restrictions for faster rehabilitation and with greater results when the goal is restoring range of motion, eliminating pain, and restoring normal day to day function.

You can find Ryan at either of his two locations:

TheHill KC and at The Epic Sports Lodge in Independence – 19310 E 50th Terrace #D1, Independence, MO 64055

Besides himself, Ryan employees three additional therapists, Atina, Kathy and Tom. Kathy and Atina operate out of his Independence location, while Tom is building his schedule at TheHill!

Interested in booking a session? Just shoot a call or text to 816.714.0282

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Theodore (Ted) John: Featured Athlete of December


  Coachable | Hardworking | Positive

“Ted is a great example of someone who has a huge heart, is involved in a ton of activities, and successfully completed the Help Me Fit program and transitioned into group classes. From the very beginning, Ted demonstrated his commitment and dedication, just by showing up, and then further challenging himself with every opportunity presented. As a veteran (Marines), Ted’s ability to connect with others, push himself in workouts, and be a true support to his classmates is something that shines through every time he’s at the gym. As he continues his journey with our fit family, Ted will always provide a positive attitude and give it his all! Lucky to know him and equally lucky to workout with him!” – Hollie Siegel

 

Your Name?
Theodore (Ted) John

What is your favorite color?  
Cobalt Blue

What would your superpower be? 
I would like to have incredible intelligence. I’d like to be able to solve the world’s problems like cancer, poverty, hunger, war, etc…

What is your spirit animal? 
A bald eagle

Row? Bike? Run? Ski? Why? 
Yes to all, except I can’t run right now because of an Achilles tendon injury. They all kick my butt while making me into a better butter burning machine.

What is your favorite CrossFit movement and/or workout? 
My favorite workout is the current one of the day. The best thing about CrossFit for me is that it is different every time I go to class. I am never bored. So far, all the workouts have kicked my butt. That is what I come for.

Favorite cheat meal in KC?  
Joe’s Kansas City, Ribs, Beans, and Fries.

When did you start working out at The Hill?  
October 2018 through Disabled But Not Really’s “Help Me Fit Challenge”

What were some of the emotional or physical challenges you were having before you started at CrossFit Memorial Hill? 
I am a disabled veteran with a 100% disability rating through the VA. I suffered from depression and ptsd. I often isolated myself in my apartment for days on end. It was pretty scary there for a while. I was pretty much sedentary all of the time, except for when I walked my dog.

What did the frustration feel like as you tried to solve those challenges before you started at The Hill? 
It was really hard at first to motivate myself to show up. Being that I was the only person in my cohort of Help Me Fit Challenge who was not in a wheelchair, I felt like I had no excuse. The other people I was working out with had to overcome huge challenges just to show up. I had no excuse and felt like I needed to show up and to do my best. I never would have gotten to where I am now without their inspiration.

How have you seen those challenges improve since joining The Hill? What does life looks like now? 
The symptoms of depression and PTSD have largely gone away. I have a joy of living again. It feels really good to be able to laugh and not feel empty inside. Life today is amazing. I am losing weight, I got a part time job at Starbucks, I even was able to convince a girl to be my girlfriend. I contribute all the positive changes that I have made in my life to what I learned during “Help Me Fit Challenge”. So much of that is just doing the basics, drinking water, eating real food, getting a good night’s sleep, keeping a record of what I eat, etc.

How is The Hill different than other gyms you’ve been to?
The main thing that keeps me coming back is the coaching and the camaraderie with my fellow athletes. Before going to the gym was a painful thing to endure. I work out way harder at The Hill and have a lot of fun doing it.

What keeps you coming back? And where do you find your motivation when the workout looks difficult?
What keeps me back is the camaraderie and the coaching. All the workouts look difficult for me. I just show up and do my best each and every time. The longest it is going to last is an hour. I can do ANYTHING for an hour.

How do you make working out fit into your busy schedule?
It helps being semi-retired. I still have a busy life and make working out a priority. I think of it as taking my medication. If I don’t work to cure the disease, I will never feel better.

What would you say to someone thinking about starting CrossFit?
Just keep at it. Listen to your coaches and your body. You more than likely are not going to be able to do muscle-ups on your first day. Just keep showing up and do your best and you will see improvements.

What are some of your goals in or out of the gym? Personal Records or achievements that you are proud of?
Since I have started working out, I have lost about 45 pounds. From May to November, I lost 32 pounds of fat, but gained 12 pounds of lean muscle mass. The first thing I think of being proud of is that I can do a squat properly. I wasn’t able to do that when I first came in. It is the little things that I am improving upon. One day I will look like David Curry.

Anything else you would like to share with our #fitfam?
I am so very grateful that you all have provided me the opportunity to drastically improve my life. I truly am living the dream. I am so grateful to Matt, Josh, Hollie, and Wesley for the opportunity to come in, work hard, and have fun. You all make it possible for me. Thank you!

 

Getting to Know: Standard Cuts – Michael Thurman


Caring | Honest | Driven 

“Michael is a true supporter in the things he believes. He doesn’t only talk the talk, he walks the walk.  He is a man of conviction, he believes in providing the best service possible because he knows that the way you carry yourself is a representation of who you believe yourself to be on the inside. “- Josh Snyder

First off, let’s start with your name.
Mike Thurman

What did you want to be when you grew up?
A soldier.

Where did you grow up?
Topeka, KS. 

What was your favorite subject/activity in school?
History.

What is a weird part time job you had in the past?
McDonald’s in High School. 

Favorite movie? Favorite line from that movie?
Godfather – “You have to excuse me. As you can see I have a weakness for my children and spoil them as you can see.”

Got any hidden talents?
I am accurate and consistent at firing rifles. 

What do you enjoy about KC?
The small town feel while still enjoying the big city feel. 

What is the name of your business?
Standard Cuts.

What is your profession? What “do you do”?
Grooming stylist.

How did you get connected with TheHill?
I walked into the The Hill 5 years ago. I was interested in what the whole CrossFit “thing” was all about.

What motivates you in your craft?
The art. And the ability to give people that great feeling of a fresh haircut. I have seen a great cut post someone’s confidence instantly.

What is one thing you wish everyone knew about your profession?
The skill level it takes to actually be successful in their profession. And how fun it is to meet new people everyday and talk about that person’s experiences. This introduces a Barber/stylist to many cultures, ideas, convictions and theories.

Anything you’d like to share with TheHill?
I love working out of this facility. While I continue to grow my business I will always have a place with the The Hill.

Gini Toyne : Featured Athlete of November


Coachable | Hardworking | Positive

“From the first day I met Gini she has had a can do attitude. She is always willing to try new things and not just meet, but exceed expectations. She has had some obstacles along the way, but has kept focus on the things she can do. She has made incredible progress over this past year as we have worked together. For one example, we began using a 13lb kettlebell for deadlifts. Just a few months ago as we progressed to using a barbell. She said she wanted to reach a goal of a 65lb deadlift. What do you know, she did just that and more. A few weeks ago Gini hit a lift time PR of 70lbs for 5 reps!!! She never ceases to amaze me. When Gini sets her mind to something, she goes after it 100%!!!!! Self Proclaimed- “CrossFit Manica” Proud of you Gini!” -Coach Mindy

What is your favorite color?
Turquoise

What would your super power be?
Transformation of physical and emotional pain into strength.

What is your spirit animal?
Unicorn.

Run? Bike? Ski? Row? Why?
Run-to enjoy the beauty of the earth one step at a time.

What is your favorite CrossFit movement, and/or workout?
Workout – ski/sled push/deadlift

Favorite Cheat Meal in KC?
Stone Canyon Pizza. 

When did you start working out at The Hill?
11/15/18

What were some of the emotional or physical challenges you were having before you started at CrossFit Memorial Hill?
Age barriers; multiple physical injuries; fear of failure.

What did the frustration feel like as you tried to solve those challenges before you started at The Hill?
Like it’s now or never.

How have you seen those challenges improve since joining The Hill? What does life looks like now?
Energy beyond expectations, power over challenges. Pride in my accomplishments!

How is The Hill different than other gyms you’ve been to?
Everyone is happy and engaged with each other and the coaching team.

What keeps you coming back? And where do you find your motivation when the workout looks difficult?
Fear of losing what I have gained. My motivation can all be in the eyes and encouragement of coach Mindy.

How do you make working out fit into your busy schedule?
As a medical professional on call for trauma several days per month, I follow through with what I have learned from Coach Mindy at home.

What would you say to someone thinking about starting CrossFit?
Fear? It is a liar! Go for it, you will be amazed.

What are some of your goals in or out of the gym? Personal Records or achievements that you’re proud of?
Transform my gym energy into continuing to manage my life/business and be an example for others. My greatest achievement so far is my 75 lb dead lift!

Anything else you would like to share with our #fitfam?
My greatest power comes from those around me who aren’t afraid to encourage and praise accomplishments of total strangers.

Getting to Know – Vital Six Physical Therapy – Jason Gearhart


Caring | Honest | Driven

“These are the values we uphold as a team, and Jason is no exception to that. One conversation with him and you will see his deep desire to teach people that pain doesn’t have to be a normal part of their lives. His passion and drive to help humans of all capabilities is inspiring, and we are so fortunate to have him on our team at TheHill. ” – Coach Brianna

 

What’s your name? Any fun nicknames?
Jason Gearhart – J Baby, because I have/had a baby face.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be an NBA Player, needless to say, my career was short lived.

Where did you grow up?
St. Charles, MO

What was your favorite subject/activity in school?
Math

Weird part time job you had in the past?
I worked as a “referee” for a large slot car race track. It was an experience.

Favorite movie? Favorite line from that movie?
Wedding Crashers – “Maaaaa! The Meatloaf!”

Got any hidden talents?
At one point I got really good at blowing bubbles off my tongue.

What do you like about KC?
The people and the BBQ.

What is the name of your business?
The Vital Six

What is your profession? “What do you do?”
Physical Therapist – Help people get out of pain and back to the activities they love.

How did you get connected to The Hill?
Matt was kind enough to respond to my email and the rest was history :).

What motivates you in your craft?
The moment a patient realizes they are capable of so much more than their medical diagnosis. Also helping people achieve their goals free of medication or surgery.

What is one thing you wished everyone knew about your profession?
Rehabilitation doesn’t have to being boring. Also, there are no quick fixes when it comes to getting out of pain, it takes a lot of hard work, patience, and determination by both parties involved.

Anything you’d like to share with TheHill?
Thank you for the chance to be a part of something special.

Christopher Shaw: Featured Athlete of October


Coachable | Hardworking | Positive
These are the attributes we look for in the Athletes of The Hill.

 

“Chris Shaw – Otherwise known as Dr. Shaw, Chris is the face of what it means to take control and get what you want out of life.  With his hectic work schedule he always makes it in for open gym or a class if he has the time. Chris also is a great mentor and friend to his 3 kids who frequently accompany him to the gym.”

-Josh

 

What is your favorite color?
Black

Pick a silly question or answer them all: What would your spirit animal be? If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
Sea Turtle, hands down and my super power would be to be able to lift more than Hoeppner 🙂

Row, Bike or Run? & Why?
“For me running was always a punishment growing up Playing soccer through college but of those 3 options which the one that I’m not terrible at…

I like rowing, Although it definitely is not a strength of mine…

Bike=Torture device conceived by masochist’s… But I made a promise to try to improve on the bike in 2019! Go ahead and keep programming @jrandall_movement”

 

 

What is your favorite CrossFit Movement?
Deadlift and cleans!

Favorite Restaurant in KC? Or favorite Cheat Meal?
KC Restaurant…La Bodega Cheat meal: Tacos and Tequila!

When did you start working out at The Hill?
2011…when we were still working out in the park…before The Hill 1.0 was open…it was the first thing since college that got me truly motivated to be fit again…I love this place!
What were some of the emotional or physical challenges you were having before you started at CrossFit Memorial Hill? I had very recently become a single father of 2 little boys under the age of 5…I was pretty sad at the time…I lost 17 pounds and got down to the same weight I was in high school…I was not really taking care of myself, and I told myself it was because I was too busy with my job and being a dad.

What did the frustration feel like as you tried to solve those challenges before you started at The Hill?
I felt like every day was just something to endure rather than savor, I knew I needed something to help me cope, and didn’t want to fall into the things that people often do when they are down…then I was introduced to The Hill.

How have you seen those challenges improve since joining The Hill? What does life looks like now?
One of my best friends from med school had been trying for over a year to get me to come try CrossFit…she finally succeeded and I was hooked after the first class. I geeked out watching CF videos joined up and it changed my entire outlook. I remember after about a month feeling like I was myself again. My energy and patience and outlook all improved and I looked forward to life again.

How is The Hill different than other gyms you’ve been to?
Hands down it’s the community…best coaches, athletes…if I have had a hard day, I know that if I just show up I will feel better (that or a particular coach who shall not be named will email me about my absences).

What keeps you coming back? And where do you find your motivation when the workout looks difficult?
King Kong.

How do you make working out fit into your busy schedule?
It is the thing that I do just for me…I’m a big believer in exercise as medicine…and when I am good about not making excuses, even if I can only get in 20 minutes it makes me better at all other aspects of my life. That’s another thing that hooked me on CF, where else can you do a workout for 4 minutes and be wrecked for two days (ahem…thanks Fran).

What would you say to someone thinking about starting CrossFit?
Absolutely do it…

What are some of your goals in or out of the gym?
Personal Records or achievements that your proud of? In 2019 I want to be able to clean 250, so that I can do King Kong, which has been a goal since the first time I saw a video of it in 2013…

What would your dream workout be?
Deadlift and Push Ups (I really like short heavy couplets with a bar and gymnastic movement).

Anything else you would like to share with our #fitfam?
Thank you all for being such a great team and for making The Hill what it is!