If you ask anyone at CrossFit Salus how they would describe our community, many of them would call this a family. We’re a pretty tight knot group of people, not only sharing physical struggles (hello burpees) and triumphs (how about that first pullup feeling?!), but supporting each other through emotional experiences, too. As coaches, we get to see the beauty of this community in an even bigger way – in the way our members impact their kids and their families outside the four walls of our box. And, as a strong mom, Cherie Crocker does just that.
Cherie has not only displayed that she is a strong mom with muscles, but that her strength extends beyond her newly shaped biceps (that helped her get her first pull up this year). Her influence radiates through to her family and has inspired them to make healthy changes, too. She even motivated her sister and daughter to participate in the recent Foundation Nutrition challenge!
This is why we’re excited to announce strong mom, Cherie as our January 2020 Athlete of the Month.
1. When and why did you start CrossFit?
I was bored with my gym and workouts and mentioned to my husband I was intrigued by CrossFit…well he surprised me with a gift certificate for Christmas…
I’ve been hooked ever since!
2. How has your performance changed since you started CrossFit?
Well I’m not physically shaking and petrified of the workouts as I pull into the parking lot anymore! Overall I’m not scared to try new things as I was initially but more excited to see what I can do.
3. Are there exercises you can do now that you couldn’t do before?
Yes!! I can do pull-ups, toes to bar, and double-unders!
Although I don’t lift the heaviest, I lift heavier for many exercises than I ever could imagine.
4. How has your body physically changed since you started?
I’m definitely leaner, my arms are more defined, and my stomach is flatter.
5. OK, strong mom, how has CrossFit changed you in other ways?
I look forward to the workouts everyday since it’s the best way to escape and reduce stress.
After tackling some of the WODs, during the rest of the day I feel like I can handle anything (well, some days!)
6. How do you describe CrossFit to your friends?
Haha I always start out saying “I don’t mean to sound corny but,” and then describe it as
…the most positive group of people who genuinely enjoy seeing each other get better and stronger mentally and physically.
I also describe the workouts as a combo of weight lifting and gymnastics.
7. What keeps you motivated to continue?
For the most part, my children are my why. I want to be a strong mamma physically and mentally.
I especially want my daughter to see how fierce woman are?I also know at this point in my life that if I don’t take care of myself, I’m not going to be a good mom or wife. My husband certainly doesn’t complain either lol
8. Favorite lift or WOD?
I don’t know them by name but I love any combination of gymnastics type stuff, like handstand push-ups, pull-ups, and a (short) run in an AMRAP
9. What advice would you give to a newbie just joining CrossFit Salus?
Ooh it’s still hard but don’t compare yourself to others!
Try to focus on yourself, never doubt that you can accomplish something and don’t be scared to try something new (such real life lessons wow)!
10. If you could design your own WOD, what would it look like?
Something like:
AMRAP in 15 minutes-200 m run, 5 pull-ups, 10 toes to bar, 20 box jumps
11. Favorite thing to do for fun?
CrossFit isn’t it obvious?! Haha…
I also love the beach, going on vacation with my family, shopping, going to the park and getting pedicures
12. Favorite healthy dish….and favorite “splurge” meal?
I love mixing veggies with some kind of protein and brown rice or quinoa. Pizza or a turkey sub on really good Italian bread are splurges
13. If you could be a superhero, who would you be and why?
Wonder Woman…obvious physical reasons- she’s super sexy, strong, and can get anyone to do practically anything!
14. Favorite quote?
Not really a quote but I believe in karma, especially good karma (I try to instill this in my children).
I also believe you should never burn bridges because everyone is connected in some way and you never know when your paths will cross.
16. Interesting fact not many people know about you.
Not sure if these are interesting but I’m super stubborn, have a weird obsession with my teeth and my favorite thing in the world is getting a pedicure.
Every month we spotlight a different athlete at Salus who stands out and shows just how awesome they are.
What is it that makes up the Athlete of the Month?
It may not be the person that finishes the fastest, RX’s every workout, or rings the PR bell every time they walk in the box. Although we love and celebrate when those things happen, the Athlete of the Month is made up of much more than physical ability. This person shows up, displays grit, and then gives a little more by supporting others in their journey to reach their goals, too. And they extend their motivation beyond the box.
They are hungry to learn and always ready to do the work. This athlete embodies what we believe the CrossFit Salus Community should be about.
