January Athlete of the Month Number 2: Darien Chavez

0

If you’ve seen Darien Chavez lately, you have noticed that this Hot Momma has made quite a transformation since beginning CrossFit Incendia. When Darien began CrossFit, she really struggled with some of the WODs. What I admired about Darien from the beginning is that even though she struggled, she never quit. She kept plugging away until she finished, even if it was long after the rest of her class. Darien worked really hard and within a couple months she was doing every workout as prescribed and was jumping on boxes, completing double unders, setting PR’s (personal records) left & right, and looking AMAZING. We are so proud of Darien and she continues to get stronger every day. Darien has become an inspiration to many at the box. Go, D!

When Did you start CrossFit: 

CrossFit Incendia’s opening day was my inaugural CrossFit workout!

Why Did you start CrossFit:

I used to run and be fairly active in my 20’s and early 30’s, but for the last few years I became a true couch potato.   I’m in my 40’s now and I was tired of feeling sluggish all the time.  I was ready for a positive change and I like how the CrossFit workouts are always different, rather than just spending time on a treadmill.  Plus, although my clothing size had not changed drastically, time and gravity were definitely starting to take it’s toll and I didn’t like it.  (Damn you, gravity!)

What kept you coming back/motivated: 

In all honesty, at first it was really hard to keep coming back because I felt so far behind everyone else.  I still do most days, but I figure “Who cares??”  At least my couch potato butt is trying and getting just a little stronger every day!  Also, I’m not sure I would have kept coming back if it wasn’t for the great support from my hubby and fellow CF’ers in the 6:30 a.m. class!  This might sound crazy, but to me it’s “us-versus-the-workout” and we’re all trying to kick some workout booty!  Guess I’ve always been a team player.  🙂

What is the best thing you have gotten out of doing CrossFit:

So far, the best thing has been the gain in confidence in my abilities.  After each WOD I leave Incendia with a true feeling of accomplishment.  Well, wait a minute!  A VERY close second best thing would be that I’m starting to see some definition in areas of my body that haven’t seen definition in quite some time.  I have to admit that’s pretty cool, too!

What is the one thing you have done here that you never thought you could do?

Wall Walks!!  Then again, I never would have thought my 40-something self would have any reason to be doing hand-stands (wall or otherwise), jumping rope, or hanging from monkey-bars!  They were much more fun (and easier!) when I was 10!  🙂

What is one goal you have reached? And one goal you still hope to reach?

One goal I have reached?  Hmmm…  I hope this doesn’t sound lame for the more experienced CF’ers, (I still consider myself a newbie so I’m going play that card as long as I can!), but I wanted to do an Rx box jump.  I had used a few stacked plates and also utilized the tire, but the actual box just seemed so TALL!  I’m excited that I’ve been able get over it and just JUMP!  I have many more goals to reach, but the first that comes to mind is to be able to string together five kipping pull-ups. (Note: Darien has completed the 20-inch box jump goal since this was written:)

How has your diet changed since starting CrossFit? 

I’m definitely more conscientious about what we’ve been eating!  After seeing such progress in the last several weeks on the outside, I’d like to think I’m making positive changes on the inside too.  We’ve also been trying to shift to a more Paleo/Primal lifestyle.

What do you tell your friends about CrossFit? 

I tell friends (and pretty much anyone who will listen!) that I am having so much fun with CF!  I tell everyone that they should give it a try and, of course, try to steer them to Incendia!  🙂

Additional comments/anything you’d like to add:

I’m so glad to be a part of Incendia! We’ve met some AWESOME people and I really appreciate how supportive and encouraging everyone is!