Hey Folks!
It’s our favourite time of the month – We get to hear from one of our amazing members! Octobers CrossFitter of the Month has a pretty solid feel for what our entire business is all about (Sudbury School of Fitness) – We don’t just exist to make you sweat and get you fitter than you’ve ever been – we also want to ensure you’re feeling healthier than ever 🙂 It’s always an honour to have folks trust us to be on their health and fitness team/journey. This month we’re proud and excited to announce our CrossFitter of the Month as…
Brenda! Here are her answers to our questions 🙂
Name: Brenda Merrick
Age: 66 Years Young
Occupation:
Retired Case Manager
What was your exercise experience prior to CrossFit?
I went to the YMCA while I was working. I also was a member of GoodLife after I retired. Although both places did offer some great programs, I still did “the gym thing” alone. I didn’t challenge myself and there was no one who challenged me.
How long have you been doing CrossFit and why do you choose to CrossFit?
I started at CrossFit Sudbury in March 2018 after blowing out my right knee while on the treadmill. I saw Stephanie Grenier, physiotherapist, and after a few sessions with Stephanie, she told me about the GLAD program for people like me with osteoarthritis. I made the decision to take part in this program. It was tough to start. With encouragement from Stephanie and Kristen, I completed the GLAD program and felt like I was in better control of my life. I started in the STRIDE program in January 2019 doing one class a week. Then in February 2019 I decided to get very serious with my health and fitness. I saw an orthopaedic surgeon in March 2019. I needed right knee replacement surgery. He told me to keep doing what I was doing and he would see me in September. I did see him in September and he told me I was his “ROCKSTAR”. The replacement surgery has been put on hold for a year. He encouraged me to “keep doing what I was doing” in the gym and in the kitchen. I’ve lost weight and I’m in much better shape then I was a year ago. My time at CrossFit Sudbury has been life changing. I have a great coach and a group of people that encourage me in my journey. CrossFit Sudbury is a very special gym with staff and coaches who are there to help and encourage you in your fitness journey.
What is your favourite part about CrossFit?
I always wanted to try rowing and it was Stephanie who encouraged me to try the rowing machine and I LOVE IT!! Its what I warm up on. I have even bought a home rowing machine so I can “row my boat” every day.
What are the accomplishments you are proud of? (CrossFit or non-CrossFit related)
Losing weight and getting physically stronger. I’m finding a strength that I didn’t know I had.
Favourite workout or lift?
Rowing of course is my favourite and dead lifts.
Anything else you would like to share please feel free
This is a great place for people of all ages. If you are an older adult and loosing some of your ability to perform your activities of daily living, CrossFit Sudbury is a great place to get your strength back. And it’s a FUN place.