Another tough month to choose our Athlete of the Month with a few bods on the radar, but we couldn’t be happier with our decision. Jemma holds the coveted title of our longest standing member. Jemma’s first recorded class in Mindbody was on the 5th of May 2014 and since that time has spent over 300 hours with us, has worked her way from struggle town air squats to a 20″ box to now being able to squat over 40kg, and has always been one of our most consistent Niche goers. The Jemma of late has also absolutely endorsed her inner athlete and just basically comes in and gets shit done. She also makes some mean chocolate! Let’s hear from our August Athlete of the Month…
Why did you start CrossFit?
I was in a bad personal situation and really (really…) wanted to punch a particular person in the head. I came for the boxing to vent it and ended up doing CrossFit. I then had to self represent in Family Court for 2 years and Niche helped me maintain my sanity. In the process it became an imbedded part of my life. I love it.
What is your most memorable moment to date?
Coaching an unfit person to the top of Bluff Knoll. I knew how to help her because of Niche.
Within Niche, it would be Jen saying she had underestimated me again.
What is your most and least favourite WOD or movement?
I don’t think of it that way. I just hang on for the ride and aim to be a better rider. For me Niche, until recently, has been about the mindfulness of the WOD and movement, quality of life and getting the fundamentals. My physical strength development has only begun in the past 4 months.
What tip would you give to someone just starting in CrossFit?
If, like me, they’ve never done sport, or have any idea what to do, or what anyone is talking about, and frequently disappear! into a thought bubble; don’t be daunted by the sporty spunky people. Admire their ability and explore yours. You’re both challenging yourselves. Feeling incompetent and dealing with it is good for you.
Doing your best with who you are and where you are at each session is good enough. Hearing external positive reinforcement on yourself is incredibly valuable for your mind set. Witnessing others celebrate each others achievements at any level is beautiful. I have met wonderful people who are important to me.
Whatever reason you are drawn in for, stick with it and let it bring many other unexpected offerings in to your life. All of this is there for everyone.
What is one random, non-CrossFit ‘thing’ about yourself?
I am a long-term student of Chinese internal martial arts and Daoist development systems. We work with the classical martial styles of Xingyi chuan and Bagua zhang; Daoist Nei Gong (inner skills); and Dao (Sabre/Sword – combat style).
