Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words. March’s Athlete of the Month is Jennifer Brown. Jen was chosen because even though she has been dealing with a lot of back pain, but through it all, she has never given up coming to the gym. She makes working out a priority, despite how she might be feeling that day, and always does it with a smile on her face! She is really good about asking how she can modify movements to ensure that she keeps her back safe and is simply just happy to be at the gym moving! Her positivity and do-work attitude is very inspiring! Her hard work is paying off and we love having Jen as a part of our OPCF community!
How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit? I have been working out at OPCF for 5 months now.
What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? My first thought after finishing my first workout was “sign me up!” However, this was something that I concluded after getting over my initial shock. I recall driving up to the gym and noticing a group of beautiful, fit people running outside. I initially panicked and thought about turning around. I worked up the courage to park my car and walk in. There were even more beautiful, fit people inside working out! I was a deer in headlights and then someone approached me (I think he was a coach, but it’s all a blur now). I mentioned how nervous and unprepared I felt, and he said that I already did the hardest part, I walked in!
What has been your favorite workout so far? I love AMRAPs. They are challenging but also allow for a great level of flexibility and that is very important to me.
What is your favorite cheat meal? I was recently introduced to Birria tacos and I am obsessed.
What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now? I am a native New Yorker from the Bronx and growing up I wanted to be a Cop with NYPD. Currently, I work at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services.
What do you like to do outside of work? I am very boring; however, I enjoy reading and am one of the best window shoppers that you’ve ever met.
What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF? The best advice that I can give a newbie is commit to a schedule that they are comfortable with and walk through the darn door!
What is your favorite/least favorite movement? My favorite movement is the push press. I truly love all movements; however, I do have frenemies and they are Mr. Snatch and cousin Burpee.
What’s one CrossFit goal you have set for yourself to accomplish this next year? I would love to continue to strengthen my back and build a stronger physique that would allow me to try more complex moves that I am hesitant to try.
What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF? I am definitely a lot happier now. I work from home and don’t get much interaction with the outside world. I really enjoy getting out and seeing people push themselves; it’s motivating and good for the soul.
What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far? I can do push-ups again! Who knew that a minor victory could bring so much joy?!?!
How do you fit working out into your weekly schedule? It’s not an option! I’ve made a commitment and I stick to it. Also, my dog says I’m too clingy and rushes me out the door every afternoon.
What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet? I would love to open a B&B!
