Hey Folks!
This month we recognize a person who doesn’t always stand out, when it comes to ridiculous scores (unless you count squat mobility!) but who has been a constant in our community for almost 2 years now! Their consistency, patience and coach-ability makes them a pleasure to have in the gym – and we look forward to seeing numerous PR’s in the near and distant future! This month we recognize…
Deniz! Here are her answers to our questions!
Name: Deniz Frik
Age: 29 (thank you for asking me this before July)
Occupation: Master’s student – Public health and gerontology
What was your exercise experience prior to crossfit?
Couch potato. I’ve also been guilty of -ahem- many other bad habits, particularly smoking, which is something that is a constant battle for me to avoid.
I have had sporadic exercise experience at the Laurentian gym, as well as failed memberships at Globo gyms and the YMCA. So far Crossfit is the only exercise that I have been able to maintain, and most importantly, enjoy.
I do enjoy other physical activities such as canoeing/camping and horse riding when I can devote the time to them.
How long have you been doing crossfit and why do you choose to crossfit?
I started in October 2013, literally not having much of a clue what Crossfit was. I assumed it was some type of class-based exercise that involved a lot of push-ups – I wasn’t completely wrong, but I was missing a lot! On an impulse, after sick of being progressively more and more out of shape and feeling disappointed with myself (especially on canoeing/camping trips), I signed up and drank the Kool-Aid/protein shake.
What is your favorite part about crossfit?
I spend a lot of time on my own – which suits me fine – but I’ve realised that I do require some social interaction, which CF is great at providing. It’s been great at getting me out of my comfort zone, especially events like the Open and Battle Beyond the Barbell (as a volunteer). It makes me want to keep coming in, which is something I never expected. More so, my self-confidence has skyrocketed, and I actually want to make healthy life choices.
Oh yeah, and the measurable physical improvements – like not having to buy bigger pants – are a great ego boost that also translate into all spheres of life.
What are the accomplishments you are proud of? (Crossfit or non crossfit related)
This is the hardest question for me, but I’d have to say that I’m proud of sticking with my pursuit of post-secondary education, even though it’s been very difficult at times. I’m proud of the supportive role that I play in my family, and I’m proud of my volunteer work in the community.
Crossfit-wise, I’m proud of slowly but consistently improving in all spheres. Things that I once hated I can now say, “eh, that’s not so bad” – like wall balls, running, and box jumps.
Favorite workout or lift?
I like workouts with a lot of diversity in movements, even if they’re 20 minutes long!
I enjoy all the lifts, except for strict presses because I’m just not improving at the rate that I’d like. I particularly enjoy snatches, even if I haven’t PR’ed in forever. They’re such a challenge to do properly; deadlifts and back squats are just so much more satisfying!
Anything else you would like to share please feel free
Just a big thanks to all the great trainers and all the great people that make coming in such a pleasure. Stay classy, Crossfit Sudbury.
Thanks, Deniz, for bringing your chilled out, positive energy to the gym! :)
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