Sunday, June 20, 2010 – Athlete Profile: Annette Roberts

Athlete Profile: Annette Roberts

1.  In general, what is your background?

I was raised in a small town in northern Michigan. While growing up, I was always involved in a variety of organized sports; basketball, volleyball, softball, and golf to name a few.  I went to college at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, MI and earned my degree in Dental Hygiene.  After college, I headed South and out of the cold as soon as possible.  I lived in South Texas for three years before the flip of a coin brought me to Charleston in 2003.

2.  Age, Occupation?

32,  I am a Dental Hygienist, employed at Coastal Family Dentistry in West Ashley.

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

Before CrossFit, I belonged to a local gym, my visits were sporadic, and involved mostly cardio with little weight training.  I would quickly become bored and frustrated because I really wasn’t seeing any results, and then I would loose motivation to go at all.  I was always looking for a gym buddy, I don’t workout well on my own. Then, last summer, I heard about CrossFit trough Sarah Frederick.  What really interested me was the high intensity workouts that were new and different everyday, and didn’t involve hours in the gym.  I was a little intimidated to say the least, but my concerns immediately dissipated thanks to the welcoming and encouraging environment CrossFit provides to those of all fitness levels.

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

The first day of CrossFit was a rude awakening!  I realized how out of shape I had become after my first WOD last July, of the traditional 10 minutes of Cindy.  I almost puked during the workout and had to pull over while driving home because I felt so horrible.  I realized then, I had to make some drastic changes.  Through the help of CrossFit in the past year, I am feeling better physically, emotionally and I am getting stronger.  Along with the workouts, the nutritional counseling and supplementation have really improved my quality of life.

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

I would love to be able to RX more workouts in general, but specifically, I will be thrilled when I can accomplish some basic movements such as pullups or pushups.

6.  Favorite CrossFit moment so far?

My first RX was Christine at the end of the Paleo Challenge.  It took me forever, but I did it.

7.  What do you like most about CrossFit Integrity?

CrossFit Integrity has so many wonderful attributes, but I think what really helps me succeed is the sense of community and camaraderie.  It isn’t just a place to go and workout, we all share the common goals of overall health and well-being.  Thank you to everyone who constantly provides me with the motivation to work harder, run faster, and become a stronger, healthier person.

8.  Favorite WOD?

Cindy, Dirty Thirty, and Barbara are a few favorites

9.  Least favorite WOD?

Any WOD that involes a great deal of running!

10. Favorite movement?

Deadlifts and Rowing

11. Least favorite movement?

Handstands and Burpees

12. Favorite place to eat in Charleston?

We are lucky to have so many amazing restaurants in Charleston, its hard to choose.  But I would have to say that Al di la, Basil, Cypress, and Charleston Grill are a few of my favorites.

CrossFit Integrity, Charleston, SC