Sunday, January 13, 2013 – Athlete Profile: Elaine Katko

Athlete Profile: Elaine Katko

1.  In general, what is your background?

I was born in New York but have lived in South Carolina since I was 10 years old. I went to MUSC for both my Bachelor’s and Master’s in Nursing. I am divorced and have two kids, ages 8 and 10.

2.  Age, Occupation?

42, Nurse Case Manager at MUSC.

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

I’ve known about CrossFit for years, and actually my ex-husband used to do the daily WODs posted on the CrossFit website. I was a P90X fanatic for a couple of years and as I gradually cleaned up my diet, I decided to follow the Paleo diet. I joined a Facebook group of other people who ate Paleo, and of course, many of them were Crossfitters as well. They pushed me into trying it, so I signed up for fundamentals class December 2011 and was hooked.

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

I’ve always considered myself a pretty fit person, but CrossFit takes it to a completely different level. Not only are the workouts physically tough, but I’ve found that I have to really toughen up and push myself HARD to finish some of the WODs. I have gained SO MUCH strength and endurance over the last year, and I’ve continued to tweak my nutrition so I can get stronger, gain muscle, and not be so damn skinny.  CrossFit has become a huge part of my life. I no longer just “work out”. It’s now all about reaching new goals, pushing myself harder, and being a part of a community.

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

I want to be able to back squat 200#!

6.  Favorite CrossFit moment so far?

Second time doing Jackie. PR’d by a full minute AND went from a purple band for pull-ups to Rx’ing.

7.  What do you like most about CrossFit Integrity?

The feeling I get every time I walk in there. I know I’m going to see my friends, work my ass off, and feel awesome when I walk out.

8.  Favorite WOD?

Cindy. First pull-up WOD I was able to Rx.

9.  Least favorite WOD?

Fran. First WOD that almost made me cry.

10. Favorite movement?

Overhead squats. Early on, I lost my balance in an OHS with just the 45# bar over my head, and the bar crashed onto my ankle, which was jacked up for weeks. After that, I vowed to make OHS my strength. I’m up to a 1RM of 100# now! Makes me feel like a badass.

11. Least favorite movement?

Running. I HATE running. I would rather do burpees than run. Really.

12. Favorite place to eat in Charleston?

Sesame, Cypress, and Triangle.

CrossFit Integrity, Charleston, SC