We’re excited to share the inspiring and uplifting #CrossFitStory of Anne-Katrin Jamin, who has been training with us since 2016. Learn about her journey, her training regimen to achieve her goals, and what motivates her to stay at CrossFit GVA.
Anne-Katrin, can you introduce yourself in a few words?
I’m 44 years old, I’m from Germany, but I’ve been living in Geneva for 23 years. My first career was as an engineer and architect. When I had my three daughters in quick succession, I put my career on hold. My oldest daughter, Lara-Marina, will turn 18 this year; Juli-Marlen is 15; and my youngest, Mila-Sofie, is 12.
After my third pregnancy, I completed training to become a personal trainer and fitness instructor. For the past 10 years, I’ve been coaching for the sheer joy of it, particularly through UrbanTraining sessions in my neighborhood. As a coach, I discovered that I enjoyed teaching others, so I began studying German language and literature and education at the University of Geneva, and I’ve been teaching German for five years.
What were your exercise habits or your level of physical activity before you started CrossFit?
My first great love in sports was skydiving, which I started when I was 14. I come from a very athletic family, so lots of activities were part of my daily life. I learned to ski in Switzerland and spent a lot of time at the gym, which made me want to become a coach.
What made you want to try CrossFit for the first time? Did you have any fears or concerns?
As part of my training, I wanted to understand what this “new sport” called CrossFitwas all about. I didn’t have any preconceived notions—just a hunch that it was exactly what I needed. And that turned out to be true!
How has CrossFit transformed your life, physically or mentally?
CrossFit hasbrought stability to my life. It has made me stronger both physically and mentally. I went through some very difficult years, raising my daughters on my own, dealing with sleep issues, a heavy mental load, and my studies. I can say with certainty that CrossFit has taught me not to give up and to hang in there, even when things get really tough.
What progress have you noticed since you started—in terms of strength, flexibility, or in your daily life?
I continue to make progress in some areas and try to stay on track in others. My physical strength has improved a lot in recent years, as has my cardio. My flexibility, unfortunately, remains my weak point.
Has this practice had an impact on your overall well-being or other aspects of your life?
Yes, definitely. CrossFit is a well-established part of my weekly schedule, and I miss it when I can’t work out. It helps me stay disciplined and think strategically—which is essential as a single mom. It also helps me channel negative emotions into positive energy. Often, I leave a workout feeling much better than when I started.
What do you appreciate most about the CrossFit GVA community?
I’ve been with GVA for nine years. I’ve met a lot of wonderful people there. Some come and go, but there’s a core group that sticks around. I’ve formed real friendships here, and I consider GVA my sports family. Especially since my partner Martin shares this passion with me—he’s become my favorite teammate.
What are your favorite memories or moments here?
I love the team competitions organized by GVA. Competing alongside my friends is my favorite thing. My fondest memories are the times when my daughters came to cheer me on. And, of course, the victories I shared with Martin.
What kinds of WODs or movements do you like best? And which ones do you find the most challenging?
I like a little bit of everything:
- In weightlifting: the clean & jerk
- In the gym: HSPUs and pull-ups
- For cardio: double unders or the rowing machine.
I love WODs that combine endurance, weightlifting, and gym workouts. On the other hand, I don't like the snatch, and I can say with certainty that the airbike is the worst invention ever.
What advice would you give to someone who’s hesitant to try CrossFit?
As a coach: you have to give it a try and stick with it for a few weeks before making up your mind. CrossFit isn’t just a sport—it’s a mindset. As a mom: just go for it—a few kettlebell swings or devil presses and you’ll already feel better! And as a woman: it’s the sport that’s made me feel best about my body.
Do you have a particular ritual or routine before or after your workout?
I like to work out in the morning, on an empty stomach. It’s my “me time.”
Is there a lesson or philosophy that CrossFit has taught you that you apply in your everyday life?
Never give up. Anything that hurts makes you stronger.
