Sunday, November 29th – Athlete Profile: Cari Smith

Athlete Profile:  Cari Smith

1.  In general, what is your background? 

I grew up mostly in upstate New York but have also lived in Pennsylvania , Kentucky, and of course South Carolina.  I am the youngest of four children, to include two old brothers who always used to beat me up.  In school I played volleyball, basketball, and ran track but the only sport I really liked was volleyball. I went to University of Kentucky for a while and now I am finishing my degree online through Excelsior College.  I am also going through Officer Candidate School and will commission this summer.  

2.  Age, Occupation? 

I am 23 and work as a full-time Intelligence Sergeant for Army National Guard.

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

When I was deployed to Afghanistan we did a little bit of CrossFit but I didn’t really get into it until I met Andre and Brian at the beach and found out that there were actual CrossFit gyms.  I have always worked out but I sometimes lacked the motivation.  I figured it would be nice to have a constant group of people to work out with.

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

I used to do very minimal upper body workouts but since I started CrossFit I have seen a huge change in my full body strength rather then just my legs. 

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

Muscle-Ups, I would be happy to do just one!

6.  Favorite CrossFit moment so far?

At the old gym when Samantha, Allison R. and I did Grace.  It was so intense we were all yelling trying to get through it and Sam and I were so excited to have RXed it. It is pretty awesome to have all females doing such a hardcore WOD.

7.  What do you like most about Crossfit Integrity?

The people, the constant encouragement motivates me, even on the days I don’t feel like doing anything they push me through it.  And we all know how much I can complain when I don’t feel like doing a WOD.

8.  Favorite WOD?

Fight Gone Bad maybe?  I hate it so much that I love it.

9.  Least favorite WOD?

Anything with deadlifts…

10. Favorite movement?

Abmat Situps

11. Least favorite movement?

Deadlift

12. Favorite place to eat in Charleston?

That’s a difficult question but for downtown I would say Basils… and for a small mom and pop place I will go with Kim’s in West Ashley (Sushi).  I pretty much just love food though.

Crossfit Integrity, Charleston, SC