April Member of the Month: Paula McEvoy
We are proud to announce that Paula McEvoy is April’s Member of the Month. Each month, we choose someone who has strong out to us in their performance in the box. Since participating in the Paleo Challenge, losing weight and inches, Paula’s strength numbers have gone through the roof. Competing in the Open, PRing her clean and jerk and getting her chest to bar pull-ups. Keep it up Paula!
1. How did you get involved with CrossFit?
I first started CrossFit about a year and a half ago at another local box. I have always been involved in fitness, yet always looking for something new to try as I get bored very easily. My husband Brian had tried it out and there was a deal going on and sure enough he purchased a trial period for me to check it out and try it. For about the first 6-8 months I was very inconsistent….doing more met con type classes then actual strength and WOD’s and was not always exposed to the variety of lifts and movements that come along with CrossFit.
My first experience with CFTC was last fall when I was a guest for the Throwdown. To be honest it was slightly intimidating…everyone was so strong and I was not sure if it was the place for me. I also felt like I was behind the eight ball already since I had been doing CrossFit for a while just not seeing much results. However, after the Throwdown I realized I needed more. With a second push from my husband I moved over to CFTC this past January and I have never looked back once. Everyone has been so welcoming and overwhelmingly supportive since I walked through that door.
2. What was your first main class WOD?
My first WOD if I remember correctly was using the kettlebell and also included box jumps. Let’s just say it took me awhile to want to go back when there was another WOD with box jumps!
3. Tell us about your first on ramp class.
Since I had been doing CrossFit for some time I was not required to take the On Ramp when I joined CFTC. However, On Ramp is an important element to CrossFit in keeping the movements to their highest standards. I believe that the instruction during On Ramp is essential so you don’t get injured.
4. When did you realize CrossFit was for you?
After the exposure to CFTC last fall I did realize I wanted more and I really needed to be pushed even more out of my comfort zone. CrossFit is an entirely different league of fitness and I am continuously being challenged and absolutely never bored.
5. What are your short/long term goals?
To this day still need to work on my technique in many areas and I know that I will continue to improve with the excellent coaching at CFTC. I also need to find time to practice things such as pulls ups and double unders as it has been proven that both will come in time with continued practice. Long term goals include participating in the Opens again next year and comparing how far I have come when compared to this year.
6. What is/are your favorite wod/movement? Least favorite?
My favorite movements are the thruster and toes to bar. My least favorite is any type of snatch as I find it the most technical and there are so many movements going on at the same time.
7. What is your biggest accomplishment
I think I am most impressed with how far I have come with being at CFTC for only 3 short months which was even more than I had progressed in a year before coming to CFTC. Things have completely exceeded my expectations. Previously, I was just going through the motions and not really getting the most of my workouts. Over the last 3 months, I have been pushed beyond the max in all my workouts along with participating in my first Paleo Challenge and Open Games. I have been pushed to get more plates on those bars and heavier kettlebells when I did not think I had it in me. The challenge was one of the hardest things I have ever done but I learned so much and am grateful that I had the opportunity to do it and it was shocked at how successful it was for me. When I was asked if I was going to the games back in February I laughed…never thought I would enjoy it as much as I have and already can’t wait for next year! Each week in the Opens has been more eye opening and I have learned that if you want something bad, put your mind to it, do what it takes and you will be successful. The continuous support from the sidelines is just as important and keeps me going day after day in the box. Looking forward to continuing to grow and improve alongside a great community!