MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Jess Moats
Q: What brought you to CrossFit in the first place?
A: I have done CrossFit before and it is my absolute favorite workout. I’ve tried other types of workouts, but CrossFit keeps me engaged. I love that I never have to figure out what to do at the gym and I love that every single person is working at max capacity during each workout. Whether someone has been doing CrossFit for 5 years, 5 months, or 5 weeks, everyone is pushing it to the fullest at their level. If it’s easy, then we aren’t doing enough.
Q: What was your first impression? How has that changed?
A: I was terrified! But now I know that every workout will be scaled for where I am. Things that I am good at, I can push, things that are not my strengths can be made accessible to me. I wouldn’t say I’m confident, but I’m confident in my coaches to help me do each workout to my fullest ability.
Q: What was your first “bright spot”?
A: Probably going to a class by myself without my friend who started with me. Big step!
Q: What’s your favorite CrossFit CTRL memory?”
A: Devan coached me through a deadlift PR and front squat PR. It was the First time I ever walked into the gym with a weight in mind that I wanted to hit during a lift- I wanted to hit a 200 pound deadlift, Devan coached me to a 225 pound deadlift- a 40 pound PR.
Q: What do you love most about CrossFit CTRL? What keeps you coming back each month?
A: Feeling stronger and the sense of community.
Q: Who inspires you?
A: So many people! My boyfriend, Aaron. He encourages me in my workouts and to be a better person every day. All of my coaches: Devan has been amazing, he is so welcoming and encouraging; Marcus is quick to offer tips to help me through different movements; Heather is a badass, I am amazed by her every time I see her workout. She is also so knowledgeable about nutrition and encouraging, never judgmental; and Shawna is just the sweetest and so full of energy! She is so bubbly!
And SO many people at the gym. I’m inspired. Every. Single. Day.
Q: What is your current occupation? What are some hobbies, clubs, groups or activities you participate in?
A: I’m an English as a Second Language teacher. I work with students who speak another language and help them learn English. It’s a challenging and rewarding career. I love my students and their families. I do a lot of work outside of my job advancing our field.
I’m a mama to a sweet, funny, kind, and beautiful girl. She’s my world.
I loooove to travel. I want to go everywhere. Kayaking, hiking, camping, laying on the beach, drive ins…. anything fun, I’m in!
Q: What would you say to someone you love to encourage them to try CrossFit CTRL?
A: You will love it! Whether you are super fit or get out of breath walking up a flight of stairs, Devan and all the coaches will work with you to get you to the next step. You will be accepted right where you are! And it’s so fun! I’m always amazed how tough it is during the workout, but after how amazing it feels and how much fun it was!