We’re excited to announce Dr. Jacqueline Gallello (who we all know as Jacquie) as our CrossFit Salus April Athlete of the Month! Jacquie has gotten so much stronger since she started and is one of our most virtuous members because she focuses on such good form on everything she does. She offers a wealth of knowledge to our community as a Physical Therapist at Sports Care next door and is extremely supportive of each and every member.

Learn a little bit more about Jacquie (and why she’s so amazing) below:

1. When and why did you start CrossFit?

I started CrossFit last April because I was getting bored with my normal workout regimens at the gym. I did gymnastics for 19 years and when I found out that part of CrossFit consisted of gymnastics type strength training, I was definitely motivated to give it a try! I’m the kind of person that likes to be pushed by experienced coaches and also motivated by watching driven athletes, so I thought that CrossFit would be the perfect fit for me.

2. How has your performance changed since you started CrossFit?

I have definitely gained more mobility and strength overall since I first started. I knew nothing about the correct techniques for the Olympic lifts when I first started, but I now feel more comfortable and confident when performing each lift.

I have definitely gained more mobility and strength overall since I first started.

3. Are there exercises you can do now that you couldn’t do before?

I was amazed at how quickly I was able to regain my strength with the body weight exercises that I used to do everyday in gymnastics, and I can now do ring muscle-ups which is a huge accomplishment for me. I was very cautious about lifting heavy when I first started CrossFit because of an old back and hip injury, but I’ve noticed over the past couple of months that I am more confident and much stronger to be able to lift heavier with proper body mechanics.

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

I haven’t lost any weight, but have definitely gained more muscle mass overall. I’ve noticed more definition in my arms and finally have my 6 pack back, so I’m looking forward to the summer…Bye Bye Beer Belly! I also noticed that I have more endurance to be able to get through those longer WODs without feeling like I’m going to pass out!

5. How has CrossFit changed you in other ways?

I’ve always been a light sleeper, but I’ve noticed that I am able to sleep much better on the days I workout. I work two jobs that are both physically demanding and I need to be in good shape so that I can be a good role model to my patients and also the children I coach. Being the Director of my facility and also the special needs gymnastics program I run can be very stressful at times, but I’ve noticed that doing CrossFit has definitely helped reduce my stress levels.

I’ve noticed that doing CrossFit has definitely helped reduce my stress levels.

6. How do you describe CrossFit to your friends?

I tell my friends and patients that CrossFit is a combination of endurance training, Olympic lifting, and bodyweight strengthening. It may look intimidating from an outsider’s perspective, but it is a great workout for EVERYONE. I inform them that it’s not about competing with other athletes in the box; it’s about doing your personal best! I encourage all of my patients to give it a try after they make a full recovery in therapy!

it’s not about competing with other athletes in the box; it’s about doing your personal best!

7. What keeps you motivated to continue?

Seeing the progress I’ve made over the past year has definitely motivated me to continue. I look forward to working out each day, even when it’s a challenging workout for me. Another motivation for me is watching the show my 600-lb life! I think to myself you have one life and one body, so don’t destroy it by making poor choices!

8. Favorite WOD or lift?

My favorite WODs are the “gymnasty” type of WODs. I’m still working on the technique with all of my lifts so I can’t say that I have a favorite yet!

9. What advice would you give to a newbie just joining CrossFit Salus?

The advice I would give to a newbie is that you’re going to love it! Don’t be intimidated by how much others can lift or do, just do your personal best each WOD and you will feel a sense of accomplishment. Every workout can be modified to your ability. Gino and Ang are amazing coaches and are always there for you when you have questions or need a little motivation! And all the athletes at CrossFit Salus become like a second family! They are a huge support and are always there cheering you on when you learn a new skill or get a PR!

all the athletes at CrossFit Salus become like a second family!

10. What is your next goal to accomplish…or goat to kill?

I’ve learned a lot about myself from doing the Crossfit Open this year. I knew going into it that I wasn’t going to be at the top of the leaderboard, but I gave it 110% each week and was proud of the progress I made. I learned that I’m a lot stronger then I could have ever imagined, and I need to start pushing myself more and more each WOD. Doing the Open has motivated me to want to participate in other small competitions throughout the year, so that would be my next goal!

Doing the Open has motivated me to want to participate in other small competitions throughout the year, so that would be my next goal!

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

If I could design a WOD it would it would consist of strict pull-ups, v-ups, handstand walks, and rope climb without using your legs!

12. Favorite Paleo dish….and favorite “cheat” meal.

I don’t normally do the cooking in my house, but I do like making paleo stuffed peppers when I get the chance! And my favorite cheat meal is PIZZA!

Thank you to my CrossFit Salus family for always inspiring me to do my best!