This month we recognize someone who has been with us since DAY 1 – MOMENT 1.  This person has attacked weaknesses, competed hard in the opens as well as at both of the Battles Beyond the Barbell, and even birthed one of the famous “CrossFit Sudbury Babies”.  She’s willing to jump in on a WOD with you, or help encourage you through it – and will take to a challenge pretty quick.  May’s CrossFitter of the month IS…

Name: Michelle Laderoute

Age: 33

Occupation: Manager Mechanical and Civil Engineering, BESTECH

What was your exercise experience prior to crossfit?

I played a variety of sports in high school and continued to play soccer competitively into my mid-twenties. I was on the club Ultimate Frisbee team for Queen’s University (yes there is such a thing). After I graduated I took up long distance running and completed several long distance races all over the province. I’d like to do a half Iron Man someday.

How long have you been doing crossfit and why do you choose to crossfit?

About a month before Adam opened the doors to our beloved gym in the fall of 2011, my sister got me doing some WODs at home. One day I googled “Sudbury Crossfit” in search of someone in town to workout with. I found Adam trying to organize some outdoor WODs, and I haven’t looked back since.

I love crossfit because there’s always something to improve on. The day to day variety of the sport keeps me coming back for more. It’s amazing cross training for other sports like running, or is the running the cross training for crossfit? I don’t know anymore.

What is your favorite part about crossfit?

The community by far is my favourite part. It’s a great place to meet like-minded friends.

I also really like the coaching. It’s great to hear different cues from the coaches on how to improve, as well as tips from people who have been doing things like TOES TO BAR like pros and have words of advice.

What are the accomplishments you are proud of? (Crossfit or non crossfit related)

I ran a marathon once that was pretty intense.

Competing in Battle Beyond the Barbell last year while 5 months pregnant was also a proud moment, and controversial according to my teammate. The coaches, my husband and the other crossfitters were all very helpful in keeping me within safe limits.

Favorite workout or lift?

Double Unders are fun. Murph is a good challenge, it’s close to feeling like you’ve run a marathon.

Anything else you would like to share please feel free

And…. I wasn’t sure how I was going to manage a new baby (now ~8 month old Samuel) and going to the gym. Crossfit Sudbury was, and still is, awesome for letting me bring my little guy in while I work out. I was quickly back feeling great and in shape after a long 9 months.