Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words. January’s Athlete of the Month is Tessa Holland. Tessa was chosen because of the way she prioritizes coming to class regardless of her work schedule, and because of this consistency, we have been able to witness tremendous growth in her as an athlete. She always welcomes a more challenging version of the workout when it is suggested and always gives it her all. She is very attentive to the coach’s cues and does her best to make corrections to movements. Her hard work is paying off and we love having Tessa as a part of our OPCF community!
How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit? 1 year!
What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? Do you remember what it was? I thought, ‘Holy cow, I have a lot of work to do.’ The workout was something with box jumps and running.
What has been your favorite workout so far? I love the workouts where I absolutely die, but feel like I accomplished a lot.
What is your favorite cheat meal? Donuts, for sure.
What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now? I wanted to be a hair stylist, but I am a Credit Analyst.
What do you like to do outside of work? I enjoy riding horses and checking cattle with my husband. Also, I love spending time with our niece and nephews! We are always busy at the farm!
What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF? Don’t be afraid to scale workouts – everyone starts somewhere. Show up and put in the work!
What is your favorite/least favorite movement? I love cleans, but I hate thrusters!
What’s one CrossFit goal you have set for yourself to accomplish this next year? Keep consistently coming to classes. I would also like to dive more into nutrition and how to fuel my body correctly.
What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF? Overall, my confidence has gone up. I am able to fit into my clothes better. Mentally, it has helped me in many aspects of my life.
What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far? My proudest accomplishment is signing up and finishing The Open last year. I enjoyed pushing myself and was pleasantly surprised with what I could do! Also, just trying to improve every day and build on the hard work that’s already been done.
How do you fit working out into your weekly schedule? I try to prioritize making the 4:30 class. I think by making this a routine it’s easier to come regularly (no matter how bad the workout looks). My husband works late and is usually off by the time I get home. If I didn’t workout I’d probably be bored at home!
What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet? Make nutrition a top priority!
