Meet Manuela Ramirez, a dedicated CrossFit enthusiast who found her fitness family at Salus in New Jersey. Since joining in August 2022, Manuela has experienced remarkable growth both physically and mentally.

She’s become stronger, mastered challenging moves like handstand push-ups, and adopted a consistent 6 am routine that sets a positive tone for her day. With a passion for squats and a love for Salus' supportive community, she’s achieved more than she imagined possible.

Her story is a testament to the power of consistency, community, and finding joy in fitness.

Here’s what our coaches have to say about working with Manuela, from her drive to improve to her infectious energy in class.

"Manuela always brings good energy to class no matter what time of the day, she’s always pushing herself and working hard." ~Coach Camilla

"I haven’t coached Manuela in a while but I will say this….she knows where her strengths are and she knows where she needs to improve which is what she’s always doing. As strong as she is she has no ego in the box and is extremely pleasant to be around." ~Coach Scott

"I’ve had the pleasure of working out alongside Manuela in some of our 6 am classes. She’s not only incredibly strong but also brings a positive, welcoming energy that makes every workout better. We’re so lucky to have her as part of the Salus community." ~Coach Angela, Owner Salus

"I love having Manuela in class, she is committed to getting a little better everyday by consistently showing up!! She has great form and is so strong! Manuela is also a sweet girl with a big heart and an asset to our community!!" ~Coach Melissa

"Manuela is a lot of fun to coach! She very receptive to coaching cues always gives her very best. She also approaches each day with a positive attitude!" ~Coach Steven

Manuela Ramirez Athlete of the Month November 2024

I started at Salus in August 2022, after trying a couple other places around nothing was good enough to feel comfortable, I was new in New Jersey and looking for a fun CrossFit community. Since the first class at Salus I felt very comfortable and everyone was very supportive. 

My performance has improved in the last couple months specially, I was doing CrossFit on and off for the last 2 years but nothing consistent and in the last couple months Salus made me feel like I want to be at the gym all the time again.

HSPU have always been a challenge for me. I can now do Strict HSPU with bands, hopefully without it soon!!

4. How has your body physically changed since you started?

My body looks stronger and fitter than when I started, again consistency is everything. 

5. How has CrossFit Changed you in Other Ways?

Salus helps me have a consistent routine, managing the stress from commuting to the city everyday. Since I have been going at 6am it’s like setting the tone for the day and getting to do what I enjoy the most first thing in the morning. It helps me to be motivated through the day and looking forward to the next day’s workout.

An amazing supportive and fun community.

I love having a routine, feeling strong and thinking how amazing my body is to be able to do all of those crazy things we do lol.

Everything involving squats. Front squat, Back squat, Clean, Thruster!!

Just keep going, keep showing up, and be consistent.

10. What is your next goal to accomplish?

Improving all of my gymnastic movements is always on my list.

11. If you could design your own WOD, what would it look like?

Probably it will have cleans (or any kind of lift) , rower and pull ups.

I love spending time with my family, hiking, traveling, and trying new food!

Favorite healthy dish a good combination of vegetables and steak/salmon and “trash food” as I called tacos

14. If you could be a superhero who would you be and why?

I don’t know much about superheros but probably will be picking someone who can teleport, I would love to be able to be in different places in seconds.

15. Favorite motivational quote?

 The one that keeps me getting up for the 6am is “if you don’t do it for yourself, no one is going to do it for you” & “ The only way to do great work is to love what you do” - Steve Jobs

16. Interesting fact not many people know about you.

I'm 27 YO, for some reason everyone thinks I'm older lol