CrossFitter of the Month - May 2013 - Heather Dale

           CrossFitter of the Month May 2013:

                         Heather Dale

The CrossFitter of the month is meant to celebrate the individuals who shows what it means to be a CrossFitter at CrossFit Elgin. It is more than just being #1 on the whiteboard or lifting the most weight. We, as coaches, look for effort, a never quit attitude and  a person who is a positive influence on the others around them. TRAIN HARD!

1. How long have you been training here at CrossFit Elgin, and what brought you here?

I have been at CrossFit for 4 months now.  I have been a runner for several years, and wanted to be able to continue running and try something different at the same time. The gym looked small, affordable and not intimidating. I read up on what CrossFit was all about and the thought of an OVERALL body workout along with different challenges daily was something I would like.

2. Since starting at CrossFit Elgin, what has your lifestyle been like? Have you changed anything?

Since starting at CrossFit, I haven’t changed too much about my lifestyle. I enjoy the fact that everyone at CrossFit has a different reason for why they are there, but everyone encourages everyone no matter what their lifestyle, eating habits, physical condition etc.

Our gym is a place that everyone can feel comfortable and maintain all the things that are important to their training and in their own lives outside the gym.

3. What is your favorite movement / skill you have learned at CrossFit Elgin?
It truly depends on the day.  I enjoy the AMRAP’s and WOD’s that incorporate a variety of challenges and push you mentally and physically in different ways every day.


4. What has been the most challenging part of your journey?
Pull ups and anything overhead! My upper body strength has grown but it was so challenging in the beginning to remain positive about something I seemed SO bad at!

The form for deadlifts was tough for me to grasp too. I think I’ve got it though now!

5. What has been the most fun?  
The most fun part of CrossFit has been learning new ways to challenge myself and different muscles in my body while pushing myself to the limits AND having fun doing it!

Most days my sister is at the gym with me and we always have fun together.
And watching others and thinking, one day I will be able to do that too!!!

6. How many days a week do you typically train at the gym?
I started in the winter so I went to the gym more often because I didn’t really want to be outside running. So anywhere from 3-6 times a week initially. Now I am running a bit more so I go 3-4 times a week.

7. What is your approach toward nutrition?
I try to eat healthy always. I watch what I eat but know that when I cheat, that is ok too! I eat dairy and gluten free. I eat A LOT of fruit and vegetables but love meat as well! A balanced diet is always my approach.

8. Favorite activity outside of CrossFit Elgin?
Spending time with my family doing anything outdoors! We love to camp, hunt, fish, hike etc…

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