Today's WOD: Built by Tana

Coaches Notes

Hey Team,

Saturday's WOD has been designed by CFCB's October Member of the Month, Tana Taylor. She's awesome and her lovely family (all 4 kids and wicked husband, Brian) is awesome. I'll let her tell you a little more about herself:

Nickname(s): Mom!

What were you doing before CFCB for fitness? 

I was always fairly athletic.  I played high school volleyball, basketball, soccer, track and field and even badminton! I eventually picked up swimming during my years at the University of Calgary.  But after having four, that’s right, four babies in six years I needed to get my body back. I started with ‘at home’ videos and classes at the Westside Rec Centre. In 2010 I completed my first ever triathlon and was hooked to that sport.

How did you find CFCB and what did you expect?

A friend of mine did Crossfit In West Kelowna and it looked fun and exciting.  I looked for about a year in Calgary but not one box offered any childcare services.  As I continued to Google Crossfit in Calgary, suddenly CFCB appeared and indicated that they would offer childcare!!!!  YES!! I instantly arranged an intro with Eric in August of 2012.  Once the doors to the childcare room were opened I was there that first day and have been returning ever since to as many 9:30 classes as possible.  I had zero expectations other than to have fun, get fit and try something completely new. It would be fun to actually redo that original workout just to see how far I have come. 

What have you gotten out of Crossfit at CFCB (goals reached, accomplishments, etc)?

I really had no idea how strong I could become. Goals started out small like being able to walk comfortably after a workout!  They then progressed to achieving pull-ups, push-ups not from the toes, my first RX workout to now the ever-elusive muscle up.  I can now do 6 strict unbroken pull-ups, clean and jerk near my body weight and even made my daughter’s eyes pop when I told her I could back squat 210 pounds!!

What keeps you coming back?

The people are fantastic and the coaching makes it fun.  Our group at 9:30 have a lot of fun and laughs all while improving our strength and endurance. I just love that I am still able to keep up with and even pass our kids while we play in the yard or hike or whatever new adventure we choose to do. CFCB offers such a great environment where you feel like a part of a big family.  It’s been surprising at how supportive the staff and other members are of each other.

What are you working on now/hoping to achieve in the coming months/year?

Gymnastics, gymnastics, gymnastics.  Even with a son who is a former gymnast, those skills haven’t translated to me! I am looking to gain endurance in my toes to bar and pull-ups so that I can string a bunch together.  I’ve got the strength to do many of the other gymnastics movements it’s just getting this body to do it!! 

What do you like to do outside CFCB?

I enjoy skiing a lot, I’ve skied my whole life. I also love floating on our boat in the summer, water skiing and just being outdoors in general.

Favorite joke? Or quote?

Right now I live by the saying, ‘ The only missed shot is the one not taken.’  I really believe that your only true failure is not trying in the first place. I’ve really been working on getting out of my comfort zone to try new things both in and out of the gym.   

If you could be a Crossfit movement what would you be and why?

Hmmm, that’s a tough one.  I’d have to say the snatch for many reasons.  I am a complicated person with a lot going on and yet when everything falls into place I am smooth and even keeled.  But, if one or more aspects fall out of place I’ve got to step back, make adjustments and then carry on.  Balance is key and if I am overloaded then nothing works or gets done.  Plus, one of my favourite movements is cycling 55# snatches very quickly!

Anything else you would like to share about yourself?

During my brief career competing in triathlons I had the opportunity to compete internationally.  In 2011 I competed in the Canadian Championships and earned a spot on the National team to represent Canada at the World championships in Auckland, New Zealand in 2012.  I did the same the following year and went to London, England in 2013. It was a true honour to travel and compete on the world stage wearing the Canadian maple leaf. ☺