Athlete Spotlight: Jessica Hennen

Name: Jessica Hennen            IMG_2725-1_resized
Age: 32           
Occupation: Stay at home mom
Which class time do you usually attend? 9:30
Favorite WOD: Anything with legs
Favorite Lift: Deadlift
Deadlift Max: 200
Back squat Max: 145
Favorite Food: Asian
Favorite Movie: Anything scary
Favorite Athlete: ???
Dream Job: Being a stay at home mom, which I am blessed to already have
Dream Vacation Destination: Anywhere tropical

How long have you been CrossFitting?
“6 months”

What keeps you coming back/motivated?
“I love the challenge of every workout. And the results I’m seeing is also a plus! The coaches and members are all so encouraging, it’s something I’ve never experienced before.”

How did you find CrossFit?
“A neighbor of mine, Holly who is also a member at No Excuses, was talking about CrossFit with another mom, and I asked her questions about it. After a month or two, she talked me into making an appointment with her husband Jeremy who coaches. I remember telling Holly I just need a change with my workout regime because I had hit a plateau, and only planned on doing CrossFit for a month or two. I went back to my old gym one time within the first four months of CrossFitting, and cancelled my gym membership with them shortly after.”

What is your athletic background (If applicable)?
“I grew up playing tennis and swimming. After having my first child, I got a gym membership and worked out with a personal trainer off and on for 10 years.”

How has CrossFit changed your life, lifestyle, level of fitness?
“CrossFit has changed my life in so many ways. As I mentioned above, I worked out with a trainer for a long period of time. I saw results in the beginning, but slowly started getting less motivated to go the gym. I got bored and hit a plateau fast. I’ve had a trainer for so long because that was the only way I knew I would go the gym. Exercising became a chore and I hated it. CrossFit is such an adrenaline rush for me. I can’t wait to see what the next WOD is. I have lost 15lbs between my first and second benchmark and have seen a huge increase in my strength and endurance.”

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.)
“Everything!”

Who or what motivates/inspires you?
“The coaches and members are so great because they give me the motivation I need when I think I can’t do anymore. Reaching a goal or watching others reach a goal is inspiring because you get to share such a huge accomplishment with those who support you along the way.”

What is your proudest CrossFit achievement?
“Passing the Fitness level skills test last month!”

Name one goal/personal achievement you would like to achieve through CrossFit?
“Pullups”

Hobbies/Interests outside of CrossFit?
“Family time and watching my kids in all their extra-curricular activities. They keep me busy!”

Any advice for new members?
“My first 2 months were brutal. I almost quit, not because I didn’t like it, but because I didn’t think I could do it. I was intimidated by everyone else’s level of fitness. I sent Holly a text and she told me to hang in there. I am so glad I did! I can’t even imagine doing any other workout other than CrossFit! Believe in yourself and don’t worry about anyone else. Be patient, consistent and have fun!”

Coach Laura’s Take:
“I remember when Jessica started Foundations she wasn’t 100% sold on whether she was going to stick around too long. She was just going to “try it out.” She made it through Foundations and it has been so great to see her excitement for CrossFit increase and her confidence in herself grow. She has made great strides and is a very hard worker. Jessica is super consistent at the gym and that is paying off. I am excited to see how she continues to improve in the coming months and years!”