March 2013 CrossFitter of the Month - Sarah Paradis

                  March 2013 CrossFitter of the Month:
                                  Sarah Paradis

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

I have been training at CrossFit Elgin since early December, 2012.  My friends Ryan and Janet introduced me to it and it was the change I was ready for.

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

Starting CrossFit has definitely changed my lifestyle.  As I become stronger, I want to do more activity and become healthier.  I have always been a runner and reasonably fit, but now I feel like I am  training my whole self.

3. What is your favorite movement / skill you have learned at CrossFit Elgin?  

Favourite skill....that's a tough one.  I have a love / hate  relationship with a lot of the things I do at CrossFit.  If I had to choose one I think it would be the box jump.  The first time I had to  do these it completely freaked me out.  It became a mental game to talk myself into taking that leap.  Now, I look forward to any workout  that involves box jumps!

4. What has been the most challenging part of your journey?

The most challenging part of my journey was my first month. I  felt weak whenever I tried to do...well, anything.  My upper body was  not fit and I had let myself slide a bit.  I definitely used a lot of 
sarcasm during my first workouts to deflect how badly I was feeling  about myself.  Thankfully, the coaches wouldn't buy into my negativity  and kept me going.  I've never felt better!

5. What has been the most fun? 

The most fun part of CrossFit for me is the group atmosphere. I train with different people every time I come, and we all come with our own skill set and list of weaknesses.  However, no matter who is there, the CrossFitters all motivate each other and cheer each other on until the end.  There is no judgement; that, I love.

6. How many days a week do you typically train at the gym?

I train at CrossFit 3 times a week; which fits perfectly into my  life with 3 kids at home!  When I'm not at the gym I try to squeeze in  a run or some time on the elliptical machine.

7. What is your approach toward nutrition?

My approach towards nutrition has changed a great deal in the last 6 weeks. I joined the Paleo Challenge through the gym and now consider myself to be 95% paleo.  I try to eat only foods that will  fuel my body and provide it with nutrients; no fillers. A little different from last year when I felt that a bag of chips was a 
deserved treat almost every night!

8. Favorite activity outside of CrossFit Elgin:

Outside of CrossFit I love to run, read, and spend time with my family.  Time is precious and I love to spend it with those I hold near and dear!

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