Athlete Spotlight: CJ Minniefield

CJ

Name: CJ Minniefield
Age: 41
Occupation: Commercial Insurance Underwriter
Which class time do you usually attend? 6:00am
Favorite WOD: Tie between Grace and Randy
Favorite Lift: Tie between Power Clean and Deadlift
Deadlift Max: 225#
Back squat Max: 125#
Favorite Food: Sushi
Favorite Movie: The Sopranos (Yes I know it was a TV series)
Favorite Athlete: At the moment it’s Russell Wilson
Dream Job: Anything that requires me to work in Kauai or near a beach
Dream Vacation Destination: Kauai

How long have you been CrossFitting?
“It’ll be 2 years in November.”

What keeps you coming back/motivated?
“Seeing my fitness and strength levels increase and wanting to see what I can do over the next 2 years.”

How did you find CrossFit?
“My boss was really into Crossfit and couldn’t stop talking about it. He would tell me about his workouts of the day and I thought he was insane, but he was my boss so I didn’t want to tell him what I was really thinking. Finally he convinced me to give it a try and after my first WOD I was hooked.”

What is your athletic background (If applicable)?
“I don’t have an athletic background other than casual running.”

How has CrossFit changed your life, lifestyle, level of fitness?
“Crossfit has not only increased my level of strength and fitness, but it also changed my lifestyle. I have become much more aware of what I put in my body, so I try to stay away from processed foods and sugar. It’s not always easy but I feel so much better when I make wise food choices.  Also it’s nice to no longer worry about the number on the scale because I feel stronger and better than I have ever felt.”

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.)
“I never thought I’d never be able to do Pull-ups, or lift heavy barbells. When I first started crossfit I was very weak so the first time I put 95 pounds overhead it felt awesome.”

Who or what motivates or inspires you?
“Being an example to my daughter of how important it is to take care of your body and showing her that women can be strong too! Also working out with the 6am crew (You know who you are) is always a pleasure. They are a great group of people that make me want to get up early in the morning to workout.”

What is your proudest CrossFit achievement?
“Completing Open Workout 14.1 Rx. That workout included double unders and my double unders seem to come and go at their leisure. I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to do it, but when time expired I had completed multiple rounds of that WOD and I could not have been more excited!”

Name one goal/personal achievement you would like to achieve through CrossFit?
“Becoming comfortable enough with Handstand Pushups that I can complete them in a WOD.”

Hobbies/Interests outside of CrossFit?
“Spending time with family and friends. Also there’s this awesome book club that’s really got me back into reading for pleasure.”

Any advice for new members?
“The first few months can seem very intimidating when you see all these people doing incredible things, but don’t get discouraged or compare yourself to others. You are trying to improve your fitness level and whatever that looks like for you. Stick with it and don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the ride!”

Coach Mario’s Take:
“CJ is a strong and consistent athlete. The improvement she has shown since she first started is amazing. CJ is always trying to improve and has a positive attitude every morning when she comes in and when she leaves. That’s not always easy to do at 6am! She is a pleasure to coach and is a 6am staple.  I have seen her encourage others and that is one of the great things about her.  She is getting better every day and encourages others along the way. Congratulations CJ!! Keep up the good work!!”

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