Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words. October’s Athlete of the Month is Kara Schweigel. Kara was chosen because every day she shows a willingness to do whatever it takes to improve her technique (she asks the coaches questions on how she can get better at different things); she is happy to accept feedback and try to implement it the best she can; she are very positive and always tries her best! Her hard work is paying off and we love having Kara as a part of our OPCF community! Learn more about Kara below.
How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit? I’ve been coming to OPCF since June. I was a member of another KC Crossfit gym for several years before moving to Overland Park.
What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? Do you remember what it was? I remember feeling happy to be back to working out after a forced quarantine break, but also that I was going to be sore.
What has been your favorite workout so far? I like the Hero workouts. I know they’re going to be super challenging, but finishing them feels so good.
What is your favorite cheat meal? Tacos and a margarita
What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now? I was (still am) an animal lover and wanted to be a vet when I was little. I definitely didn’t go the med school route, but instead I work in compliance for a pharmaceutical software company.
What do you like to do outside of work? I love being with my family; my kids are busy with sports, which means I’m busy cheering them on. I also enjoy running, reading, and baking.
What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF? Keep showing up, especially on the days that the workout scares you. Don’t be afraid to scale and ask the coaches questions; they’re always happy to help.
What is your favorite/least favorite movement? I really like rowing and anything with a barbell. Burpees and the assault bike are THE WORST.
What’s one Crossfit goal you have set for yourself to accomplish this next year? I’d like to get double-unders and work towards a pull-up.
What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF? My strength has improved, which is cool but so has my form. I love getting feedback from the coaches on how to be more efficient, how to lift more, etc.
What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far? Showing up consistently, especially when it’s a workout that I don’t think I’ll enjoy or be good at, is something I’m always proud of.
How do you fit working out into your weekly schedule? I make it a priority by looking at my week and making sure I’ve blocked out an hour of my day to work out.
What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet? I’ve always wanted to do a box jump, but they terrify me. I’ll get there though!