It's Member of the Month time with one of the pillars of the CrossFit GVA community this time. Audrey started training with us in June 2015. Many of you know her as one of the most impressive athletes in the box. And yet, when she first started out, we were far from imagining her progress. Audrey has shown determination, dedication and a constant desire to improve. The result is the humble and accomplished athlete we see every day training in the box. Above all, Audrey is a loyal member and friend of the CrossFit GVA community. She always has a smile on her face, a kind word to say, and is always there to cheer on her buddies. Her infectious joie de vivre is truly precious! For all these reasons, it seemed obvious to us that Audrey should be part of the "Member of the Month" saga! In the interview below, find out more about her CrossFit and personal journey.
Where do you come from and how long have you been in Geneva?
I was born in Geneva and have lived here all my life.
What do you do for a living?
I work with my parents and brother in the company set up by my grandparents in 1954. We transport and recycle building materials in Geneva. Perhaps you've already seen the big red trucks (smile)? I mainly work in the office with my mom on the administrative side of the business (receiving orders, giving orders to drivers, etc.). I'm very lucky to be able to work with my family, and fortunately we get on very well!
How did you get started in this business?
I've always worked in the family business alongside my studies, whether at college or university. In the end, it was quite logical for me to continue with them.
How long have you been practicing CrossFit?
I started Crossfit in June 2015 so for 4 and a half years.
Why did you start?
At the time, I had joined a fitness club with the aim of losing weight. I was looking for a physical ideal that I wasn't reaching (and could never reach...). I discovered Crossfit while looking for group classes to change my boring workout routine at the gym. I was clearly lacking the motivation.
What other sports have you done in the past?
When I was younger I played volleyball, swimming and tennis, but never at an advanced level. They were only sports activities outside school.
What frustrates you most during training?
At first, gymnastics really frustrated me! It looks so easy when you look at the pros, so why is it so hard? Now I know where my strengths and weaknesses lie, and I have to accept them.
What progress are you most proud of?
Coming from a fitness background with very poor mobility, I'm proud of the progress I've made in weightlifting, and even if you're never done learning, I'm happy to see where I've got to today.
What other activities do you do apart from CrossFit?
I love learning and discovering new things, places and people.
You're very serious about your workouts. Do you still enjoy them?
Oh yes, I love training! Always learning and improving, I love it. Of course, there are ups and downs, weeks (or months) when motivation isn't at its best, but it's always good to come and challenge myself at the box and see my friends.
Did you ever think you'd really get into CrossFit competition, or did you start out just for fun/curiosity?
I tried it out to see what it was like and have a good time with friends. I never thought I'd one day be able to do so much... I always see competitions as moments of sharing with people who have the same passion as me. I'm well aware that I'm not the best (far from it), so I might as well go and have fun, challenge myself, encourage others and have a laugh with the judge when you can't do a muscle-up (true story...)!
You've made a lot of progress since you started. Did you expect it or not?
Thank you so much! Yes, it's true that I've made a lot of progress since the beginning. I can't say it's a surprise because I've worked hard for it. But at the start, I never thought I'd get where I am today. There's always room for improvement, but that's what keeps me going.
If someone with no CrossFit experience sees you training, they might think they'll never make it and that this sport isn't for them. What would you say to motivate them to start?
Anything's possible! Don't say "Oh, I'd never do that...". You'll see, with patience and practice, you'll get there! Give yourself time to learn everything, there are so many different things in Crossfit! "Trust the process. Progress will happen when it's meant to happen. Stay focused on technique! Don't hurt yourself by trying to keep up with someone who's putting on heavier weights than you. I know, it's hard to "leave your ego outside", but tell yourself that you've got nothing to prove inside the box. Listen to your coaches, each of whom will have a different approach to help you progress. Don't hesitate to write down your PRs, even the smallest ones. It's always good to know what's going on, and you'll be able to track your progress. That's a lot of advice, but I couldn't stop at just one (smile).
