What do you do when you’re not at CFA?
Spend time with my three daughters (Neva-13, Jovi-13, Violet-8) & husband, travel, enjoy west michigan and being outside (well, mostly in the nicer months!).
What is your Job?
I am the director of Operations for Women’s Health at Corewell Health. I love advocating for women and building programs that will support the women around me for many years.
How has your fitness changed since joining?
I’ve been exercising for most of my adult life, but I was sporadic and focused mainly on cardio or long distances. Weight training has made a huge difference in my overall strength and stability. Despite being the worst athlete in the gym on almost any given day, I have built muscle in places that I didn’t know existed:) I also continue to take on a few summer running events and I’ve been able to reduce the training but still have some of the best runs of the last decade. I’ve recently had a little setback with an old back injury that has worsened with some bulging discs, but I’ve been able to keep moving and the coaches have been incredibly helpful with modifications that keep me from getting discouraged!
When did you realize that CrossFit was right for you?
Certainly not right away! I came to the 5:45 class for the first whole month with anxiety, feeling like I might not be able to cut it. I told myself I was going to step outside of my comfort zone and try it for a month and by the end of that month, I noticed that I was almost looking forward to it! By the end of that quarter, I noticed that my whole day was better (my mind, my focus, my mood) when I started the day at Crossfit. The coaches and support system around me have really made the experience irreplaceable.
What movement do you despise over everything and why?
Burpees! My legs feel like a million pounds and I never seem to get better at them.
What has been your all-time favorite moment at CFA? So many fun moments!
I absolutely loved the adventure race that Josh and Kate organized. It was great to see everyone competing but also supporting one another outside of the gym.
What motivates you during a tough workout?
I just narrow my focus on whatever rep count or goal is in front of me and then try to push it just a little bit harder. I am also motivated by the many badasses around me who amaze me by their strength and speed!
What’s something about you that most people at the gym don’t know?
Outside of my day job, I own a small hobby travel business with my sister. We plan all kinds of travel, but specialize in mystery trips!
If you had to describe your CrossFit experience in one word, what would it be?
Challenging! I really think it deserves a phrase though…“that was horrible…see you tomorrow?”
If you could write your own workout for a day, what would it be?
Some combination of bench, running, ab mat sit ups and step ups.
What would you recommend to someone who is just starting out with CrossFit?
Comparison is the thief of joy. Just show up and try to be the best version of yourself.
If you could have one skill or characteristic of another member at CFA what and from whom would it be?
Kelly’s toes to bar or Melissa’s squat
Quick Questions
- Favorite Cheat meal: Ice cream
- Favorite Workout song: Lose Yourself-Eminem
- Favorite Place You Have Traveled: Italy
- Favorite TV Show: Only Murders in the Building Favorite CrossFit Games Athlete: I haven’t been that indoctrinated yet;)
Coaches’ Comment:
We are excited to have Shauna as our Member of the Month for March! She has come a long way since joining us in 2023. When she first started, she was timid and nervous about every workout, but over time, she has embraced the challenge each and every day. She’ll be the first to admit that she’s hard on herself and struggles with certain movements, but she always gives her best effort every time she’s in the gym—and that’s something we can all relate to. She has also made some great workout buddies and friends in the process. Keep up the great work Shauna, we are proud of your improvements in your fitness and all your hard work!!!
