Sunday, August 22, 2010 – Athlete Profile: Meredith Collins

Athlete Profile: Meredith Collins

1.  In general, what is your background?

I grew up in Connecticut with two younger sisters, one who is a fellow Crossfitter (Alissa).  With 18 years of cold winters behind me, I decided to relocate to Charleston for college. After graduating from the College of Charleston, I ventured to NYC to obtain a job in the advertising industry. However, after four years in the South, I found the pace up North to be too much to handle. I was desperately looking for an excuse to move back to Ctown and I found that through the Citadel’s graduate program (I have a Masters of Arts in Teaching, Social Studies). I’ve been here since April of 2003.

As far as my athletic background…let’s just say that I was more of an observer than a participant.

2.  Age, Occupation?

I am 29 years old and teach U.S. History and yearbook at Summerville High School. I laugh everyday even though my hormonally-charged students may drive me crazy. Go Greenwave!

3.  How did you get to know about CrossFit and why did you start?

I heard about CrossFit through Ashley Vaughan, who became involved after Edmund suggested it to her.  Prior to joining, I had a membership at a local gym but did not attend on a regular basis. Exercise was never part of my daily routine and was just another chore on my to-do list. CrossFit seemed interesting, so I took the plunge and decided to try it. After my first day, I realized that this was nothing like I had done before. I was exhausted, but not defeated and I wanted to come back for more.

4. How has CrossFit changed your life, lifestyle, level of fitness?

The most noticeable change has been physical. I am able to lift more (I am 25 lbs away from deadlifting double my body weight), and I weigh less (which makes deadlifting double easier).  CrossFit has also changed my mindset – I am happy to say Crossfit, and working out in general, has become part of my lifestyle. I like to feel the challenge of the WOD and enjoy the high when it’s over.  It also helps to reduce the stress I endure from teaching sixteen year-olds.

5. Name one goal and/or personal record you would like to accomplish through CrossFit?

In general, I would like to RX more WODs. Specifically, I would like to do more than two pull-ups without assistance from the band. And maybe even one day deadlift double my body weight.

6.  Favorite CrossFit moment so far?

My favorite CrossFit moment so far was definitely the first time I RX’d a WOD (Christine) AND made the board! I was so stoked to have accomplished both goals in one shot. Unfortunately, I have been booted off of the “board,” but plan to return.  Stay tuned…

7.  What do you like most about CrossFit Integrity?

The complexity of the WODs coupled with the encouragement of the coaches and fellow CrossFitters. These are the two reasons why I continue to come back.

8.  Favorite WOD?

I would say Christine (see answer to #6), but I like any WOD that incorporates a little variety and not a lot of lifting weight overhead.

9.  Least favorite WOD?

RJ (5 rounds: run 800m, 5 rope climbs, 50 pushups) was pretty tough, but well worth it.

10. Favorite movement?

Air squats because I’m pretty good at them and have mastered the form

11. Least favorite movement?

Anything that requires lifting A LOT of weight overhead…thrusters, overhead squats, shoulder press.  Double-unders are also on my boo list – I can’t seem to do them without whipping myself.

12. Favorite place to eat in Charleston?

When I’m paying… Al di la, Taco Boy, Rue de Jean…. When someone else is paying: Halls Chophouse or Cypress (love the tuna).

CrossFit Integrity, Charleston, SC