Name: Zanah Alterkawi

Age: 16

Occupation: Student

When did you first start CrossFitting?

About a year ago.

Tell us about your sports & fitness background.

I’ve always been active, whether it was just walking around La Fortune park or running the stadium, but cardio has never ever been my thing.

How did you first get into CrossFit? How did it go?

I was going to Maynard Chiropractic and the Crossfit sign always caught my eye. After about a month of being curious, I convinced my dad to go in and take a look around. That’s actually the day I signed up. The first workout was insane. I actually still remember, there were box jumps and deadlifts. I remember I was extremely hesitant about the box jumps and I doubted my strength on my deadlifts. Osas stayed on my case though, until I put on some more weight and got a bigger box. I remember leaving the gym with a lot more confidence and energy.

What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health, and fitness since starting CrossFit?

Well, apart from losing 66 pounds, I’ve noticed increased energy and I cannot seem to go a day without crossfit or the stadium. It becomes sort of addicting but it has really improved my health substantially.

What impact has CrossFit had on your life?

Crossfit has taken me out of my shell, I’ve never had confidence to talk to people I’ve never met, let alone cheer them on! Crossfit feels like family now. Really, I cannot thank you guys enough for giving me this new confidence and renewed self-esteem. I can actually stand up to people now and that’s something I can never thank you all enough for.

What is your advice for people getting started or thinking about starting CrossFit?

KEEP GOING! No matter how hard it may be, pick up the bar, knock out another burpee, and you can do it! Trust me, if I can, you can too.

What are your hobbies, interests, and other talents outside of CrossFit?

I love writing and doing workouts at the Memorial High School Stadium. I’m a nerd so I love watching old classical movies and learning new crazy vocabulary words…oh my god.

I LOVE YOU GUYS (: