February Athlete of the Month

Congratulations to Jen McPherson for being our February Athlete of the Month. She has shown how hard work and consistency can pay off, she has crushed our two food challenges, and most importantly she makes the gym more fun when she is there. Thank you for making our gym a better place.

Please tell us about yourself.

I have lived in Colorado for 22 years which is the same amount of time I have been married to my husband. I

have 2 teenagers , a son and a daughter. I have been a registered nurse for almost 18 years and currently work

as the Nurse Educator in the Emergency Department.

When did you become a member at Defiance West?

February 2016

What made you join Defiance West and why do you do it now?

I work with some people that are members of Defiance in Glenwood and they thought I would like it. I really

wasn’t committed to a solid workout program on my own and I needed something new and different that I

would stick with. I continue to do it because I love it. I really enjoy how I feel after a good workout (even though

I complain during said workout). The supportive atmosphere is invaluable. Everyone from the coaches to the

members inspire me every time I walk through the door.

What were your thoughts after your first workout?

I wondered what I had gotten myself into but then realized that I had done it (and hadn’t died). After that brief

moment I felt invigorated and inspired to be better.

What is your athletic background?

I was on a swim team in high school and have always enjoyed hiking. Over the years I have done different

exercise programs but nothing has really stuck long term.

What is your favorite movement or workout?

I like any workout that contains rowing. I also like to farmer carry.

What is your least favorite?

Thrusters are awful! Burpees would have been my answer a few weeks ago but we are in therapy together now

and working through our issues.

What has been your favorite or proudest moment since joining?

Any time I don’t have to modify is a win for me, but I did climb that rope one day and that was super cool.

How has Defiance West changed your life, lifestyle, and level of fitness?

So, my family and I went on this day long hike (rated difficult) on spring break last year and I didn’t have to keep

stopping to rest. My husband kept saying, “look at mom go” and stating how CrossFit was really making a

difference in my fitness level. I now make my workouts a priority whereas in the past, the workout was the first

thing to be cut out of my day. I look at it as a necessary part of my life and look forward to going.

What are your fitness goals for this year?

I would really like to do pull-ups without a band. I would take just one. I would also like to start running and

maybe take on some 5 and maybe even 10Ks (insert deep breathing here).

What is something most people don’t know about you?

People laugh when I say that I’m introverted. I have to force myself to be social, I really just enjoy staying at

home with a good book.

What advice would you give to people looking to get started at our gym?

DO IT! It doesn’t matter what your fitness level is or what your goals are. There is only encouragement to be a

better you at this gym. Defiance West will obliterate all of your excuses and you’ll be better for it—I promise.