Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words. September’s Athlete of the Month is Ashlyn Carruth. Ashlyn was chosen because since day 1, she has been hungry to learn, she is always asking for extra accessory work to improve her weaknesses, and she is very enthusiastic and encouraging towards other members! Her hard work is paying off and we love having Ashlyn as a part of our OPCF community! Learn more about Ashlyn below
How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit? I have been at OPCF for just over 3 months!
What were your thoughts after your first Crossfit workout? Do you remember what it was? Driving to the gym, I was initially freaking out. However, right when I walked in, everyone was extremely kind and very welcoming! The workout was a run/front squat amrap. It was KILLER, but I absolutely loved it. From that first day at OPCF, I knew that CrossFit was my new passion and I was extremely excited to come back for workout #2!
What has been your favorite workout so far? I don’t think I can pick a favorite, but anything with power cleans, ghds, rowing, and handstand walk, I love!
What is your favorite cheat meal? Either ice cream or Tropical Smoothie!
What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now? Growing up, I wanted to be a nurse of some kind! I am unsure of what I will be, but I do know I want to help people, whether that’s medically, physically, or mentally!
What do you like to do outside of work? I love being with friends and family, walking my dogs, playing violin, dance, and when not at CrossFit…. watching CrossFit videos!
What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF? First of all, my advice is to show up, and have a good time!! Once you walk in the door, everyone WANTS you there! You are going to get so much more out of this journey than just working out. Everyone starts somewhere, and you will only grow and become stronger, so really, ENJOY the process!!
What is your favorite/least favorite movement? My favorite is rowing/ski, and least favorite is running!
What’s one CrossFit goal you have set for yourself to accomplish this year? I think it would be awesome to get a consistent 25’ handstand walk, and overall just improve gymnastics skills! Oh, and I have been told I need to learn barbell math 😉
What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF? CONFIDENCE. I am overall just a happier human being, and walk with confidence, ready to take on all and any challenges the world has to throw at me! I stopped working out for the way it makes me look, but workout for the way it makes me FEEL, which is strong and powerful!
What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far? My proudest accomplishment is seeing how far I have come, which is so far, on this incredible journey! I surprise myself every day with what I can accomplish at the gym, whether that’s a simple movement or finishing a tough workout!
How do you fit working out into your weekly schedule? At the beginning of the week, I go through my schedule and plan out the days and times I can be at the gym!
What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet? Travel outside of the country!