Athlete Spotlight: Judy Nam

Name: Judy Nam                        judy_nam
Age: 38
Occupation: physician
Which class time do you usually attend? 6AM in summer, bounce around during the school year
Favorite WOD: Not sure if I have a favorite yet, but anything that doesn’t involve sprinting.
Favorite Lift: Deadlift
Deadlift Max: 130
Back squat Max: 115
Favorite Food: ribeye
Favorite Movie: Lord of the Rings
Favorite Athlete: Derek Jeter
Dream Job: world traveling food taster
Dream Vacation Destination: wandering around Europe

How long have you been CrossFitting?
“Since the summer of 2014.”

What keeps you coming back/motivated?
“I feel great! Between career and family, I am constantly rushing from one thing to another. CrossFit gives me an hour to challenge my body while resting my mind. I come out of class feeling refreshed and more prepared for the other aspects of my life.”

How did you find CrossFit?
“No Excuses had a Sunday boot camp in Suwanee Town Center maybe 5+ years ago(?). I loved it, but didn’t think I could work it into my schedule at the time.”

What is your athletic background (If applicable)?
I don’t have much of an athletic background. I rowed crew in high school. Since then, I had not exercised regularly until I started running (jogging) several years ago.”

How has CrossFit changed your life, lifestyle, level of fitness?
“When we moved from NYC to Georgia, I suddenly had a more sedentary lifestyle. Then, two kids later, I felt like I needed a change. I found myself running more, but without more results. I tried boots camps and personal training, but didn’t feel motivated to continue. Since starting CrossFit, I feel like I have a more balanced fitness than I can ever recall. In my daily life, I have more energy, better posture, and find myself being able to do things I couldn’t do in the past…like the monkey bars with my boys. I’m writing this from my first ski trip in 20 years, which has not only been a physical but a huge mental challenge. Had it not been for CrossFit, I might not have survived this trip!”

What is the one thing you have done here that you never thought you could do? (muscle up, double unders, heavy deadlift, run a mile, etc.)
“Anything that involves a barbell.”

Who or what motivates/inspires you?
“I’m motivated by trying to keep up with my boys…my husband, Justin, and my sons, Dylan (7) and Gavin (3). I also want to my show my sons that physical fitness and health should be a lifelong priority.”

What is your proudest CrossFit achievement?
“Just showing up on a regular basis.”

Name one goal/personal achievement you would like to achieve through CrossFit? “Pull-ups!”

Hobbies/Interests outside of CrossFit?
“My vegetable garden, another activity I never pictured myself doing when I moved to GA.”

Any advice for new members?
“You’ll have great resources to help you along the way- the amazing coaches who are enthusiastic and knowledgeable and the inspirational people working out with you.”

Any additional thoughts/comments:
“Thanks to all the coaches for your encouragement and patience! Also thanks especially to the 6AMers who welcomed me and showed me the ropes!”

Coach Laura’s Take:
“Judy is a very hard worker. She is extremely coachable and gets in the gym and does the work, simple as that. She is quick to make corrections when she is coached and always has a smile on her face. I think she is the perfect example of persistence and consistency. It has been great to see her gain confidence since day 1 and have her as part of our gym community!”