Tell us a little bit about yourselfI grew up around Madison but moved after graduating from high school. This year, I moved back and am having a lot of fun experiencing the city as an adult. I spend my days working as a writer and communications professional. Outside of work I like drinking oat milk lattes, listening to Taylor Swift, and spending as much time outside as possible. There’s nothing I love more than a long walk in the sun. I’m a brand-new homeowner so I also spend a lot of time googling how to fix things, planning house projects, and calling my dad when I can’t figure out how to do something myself.
Why did you choose Recursive?
When living in Minnesota, my husband convinced me to give CrossFit a try. I’ve always been active—but not strong. I discovered how empowering it was to start working with weights and testing my limits. We did some research when moving to Madison and Recursive looked like a great place to work out and build community.
What is your favorite thing about working out at Recursive?
I work from home, which is a bit lonely. I love going to Recursive after a long quiet day. Everyone is chatty and welcoming, and I find it super energizing.
What was the biggest struggle you’ve had the last few months?
Fear! I’m always afraid to go up in weight or hold a barbell above my head. It’s intimidating! But I’ve really been pushing myself to step outside my comfort zone and I’ve been seeing real results.
What is your biggest accomplishment since starting your commitment to a lifestyle change?
A couple months ago I attempted a wall walk and I was really disappointed. I was afraid of going upside down and I didn’t feel like I had the strength for it. Since then, I’ve attempted at least one wall walk every time I went to the gym. I got closer and closer until last week I finally did my first full wall walk and it was a huge accomplishment! I also managed to land a double under—now it’s time to build reps!
How has Recursive changed your life?
CrossFit has done wonders for my self confidence. Before, I walked into a gym and had no idea what to do. I feel like women traditionally don’t have opportunities to build competency and skill in resistance training. But seeing your body get stronger is incredible. It’s amazing what our bodies can do when we give them a chance!
What advice do you have for people who are nervous to get started?
When I first heard my husband mention CrossFit, all I could picture was a bunch of “gym bros” doing workouts that I could never do. But that’s not the case at all—especially at Recursive. I still have to scale workouts, but I can do all of them. And I came in with no experience! You can always make the workout work for you.
What is something else fun you’d like to share about yourself?
I’m in the process of getting my 200-hour yoga teacher training certification!