To mark Women's Day on 08.03, we're delighted to present the inspiring #CrossFitStory of Angéline Desbrosses, who's been training with us since 2020. Discover her journey, her goals and what motivates her to stay with CrossFit GVA.
Angéline, can you introduce yourself in a few words?
Hello everyone, my name is Angéline, I'm one of those early risers who go to the cubicle at 6.30am. I'm 33 years old, I'm French and more precisely I come from Burgundy. I moved to Geneva 5 years ago for my job, and now work as finance and tax manager for a world-leading electrical supplies distribution group.
When did you start CrossFit and why?
I did my trial class just before the first lock-in, so I really started CrossFit after the first lock-in in 2020. I chose CrossFit because I wanted a sport where I could push myself, where the atmosphere was friendlier than in a gym, and with a gym close to home so I could train early in the morning.
Did you do any other sports before CrossFit?
Before CrossFit I did fitness in the gym, and when I was younger I played basketball and pistol shooting.
What was your goal when you started out? Have you achieved it since?
One of my goals when I started was to get back into a fitness routine and feel good about myself. I've achieved the first, but not yet the second.
What are the ones for this year?
Pulling up at last 😉
What do you particularly like about CrossFit GVA?
I particularly like the atmosphere. Unlike what I've experienced in a gym, I don't feel judged, the atmosphere is friendly and caring.
Have you gained in confidence since you started CrossFit? Do you feel better in your body and have you developed your mental outlook?
I've gained confidence in what I'm capable of doing, and CrossFit has enabled me to go beyond some of my limits. I do feel better in my body, even if I still need to work on it.
What's a special memory you'd like to share?
The Team WOD in July. It was my first time taking part in this type of event, and I really appreciated the solidarity and encouragement that kept me going.
You signed up for your first Open this year. What made you decide to do it? How did the 22.1 go?
I signed up for the Open to challenge myself and assess my level. Being a competitor, I know that I'm going to give it my all, more than I do in some training sessions. As far as the 22.1 is concerned, I've seen the ground up close on several occasions 😉 I tried the RX which showed me (not without difficulty) that I could pass a few wall walks despite the numerous no rep! It was hard work, and my result wasn't great, but I'm happy to have achieved my goal.
What would you say to someone who's hesitating to start CrossFit for fear of injury or lack of skill?
One of the advantages of CrossFit when you're a beginner is that you're not limited, the movements can be adapted to each person, so it's easy to see progress and you don't feel frustrated, so come and give it a try!
