Introducing our member of the month for October… Leah!
Leah has been a member at CrossFit 414 for over 2 and a half years and has stayed consistent throughout. However, since the pandemic hit she has really dialed everything in and has been making great improvements in her fitness. All of the renovations done while the gym were shut down were completed by Leah and her husband Tom. Also, she is the one responsible for our awesome new mural! Leah has a great blend of strength and sass and we love having her at the gym. Read on to learn more about Leah.
Are you a Milwaukee local? If not, where are you from?
I was born and raised in Hawaii. After I graduated from high school I swam for the University of South Dakota where I met Tom, my husband.
How long have you been a CrossFit 414 member?
My husband and I joined CrossFit 414 almost 3 years ago. My only regret was not joining sooner.
What inspired you to start CrossFit?
I started CrossFit about 4 years ago because I wanted to be in a sport that challenged me and where I felt like I could continue to improve. Before starting CrossFit I was teaching body pump, kettlebell, and rowing classes. But, after a year I did not feel like I was growing as an athlete. CrossFit has so many movements and skills that I feel like I can always improve and challenge myself.
Which movement is your favorite?
Heavy Power Cleans!
What encourages you to keep coming back?
CrossFit has always been the best part of my day even when I am tired. Between the coaches, the people, and the workout, I never regret doing a workout.
How has CrossFit 414 helped you in your line of work?
CrossFit, actually CrossFit 414, has helped me with having a job this year. Many members knew I was looking to go back into teaching after finishing graduate school. Trying to get hired in any job during COVID has been very difficult. But, thankfully, a member kept me updated on a job opening in a school district. And I absolutely LOVE my job this year!!!
What do you like most about being a member?
Everyone will say what keeps them coming back is the community and I completely agree. When you find the box that fits your personality and goals then you have found your group. But with 414 it’s more than a community, it is a family. The people and owner have been so generous to my husband and I. This past summer our fridge unexpectedly died and Marcus (the owner) let us store our food in the CrossFit fridge. When my husband and I did not have jobs members and the owner commissioned work from us. This community will be there for you no matter what and that is what I like most about being a member.
Tell us about your nutrition since joining CrossFit 414
My nutrition has been all over the place while doing CrossFit. I was paleo when I first started and then I would only eat one meal a day. Currently, I am on RP and have lost almost 20lbs. This nutrition app has helped me know when to eat and I feel so much stronger and confident during the workouts.
Where have you noticed success?
I have noticed that my pushups, pull ups, and toes to bar feel like they have improved. Also, I have felt stronger with the heavy strength or work out weight which has been a nice surprise.
What milestones have you achieved since joining CrossFit 414?
Recently, I have gotten chest to bar pull ups and have been working on my strength with dips.
What do you tell yourself before starting a challenging workout?
Beat Tom
What is your next fitness goal?
I am working on getting strict dips. I would love bar muscle ups and hand stand push ups. But, those are farther away.
