Athlete Spotlight: Lori Parker

Name: Lori Parkerlori_parker
Age: 47
Occupation: Internal Medicine Physician
Which class time do you usually attend? 12:30 PM or 7 PM
Favorite WOD: Cindy
Favorite Lift: Tie between deadlift and snatch
Deadlift Max: 220
Back Squat 3RM: 125#
Favorite Food: Chicken Enchiladas
Favorite Movie: The Last Samurai
Favorite Athlete: Shalene Flanagan
Dream Job: Pet Therapy Dog Trainer/Dog Whisperer
Dream Vacation Destination: Costa Rica

How long have you been CrossFitting?
“Since September of 2012”

What keeps you coming back/motivated?
“The challenge, the variety, the coaches and all the awesome members.”

How did you find CrossFit?
“Through a friend at the hospital (NEGA Medical Center).”

What is your athletic background (If applicable)?
“Moderate distance running (10K to half marathon), and I am a black belt in Taekwondo.”

How has CrossFit changed your life, lifestyle, level of fitness?
“I eat healthier and focus on getting a higher percentage of protein in my diet.”

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.)
“Double unders! (but I can only string 2 or 3 together*).” Editors note: SO FAR..

Who or what motivates/inspires you?
“All the coaches are very motivating. Also seeing the upper body strength in some of our female members keeps me motivated because my upper body is very weak.”

What is your proudest CrossFit achievement?
“Climbing the rope!”

Name one goal/personal achievement you would like to achieve through CrossFit?
“A pull up!!”

Hobbies/Interests outside of CrossFit?
“Taekwondo, hiking, occasionally volunteering at the animal shelter.”

Any advice for new members?
“Keep coming back!! It works if you work!!”

Any additional thoughts/comments:
“I am forever grateful to all the coaches for their patience with me. I love our gym and hope to be a member for many years to come. Thanks for everything y’all do!”

Coach Laura’s Take:
“Ever since she started, Lori has been such a consistent and hard-working member at No Excuses. She has seen so much improvement simply by coming in and working hard right where she was at. She has steadily gained confidence in herself and her abilities. We have seen her improve her squat and add new skills to her repertoire. Lori maintains a light-hearted demeanor in class but she is still very determined to get better! She is friendly to everyone, genuinely caring, and also has a fantastic wardrobe of workout clothes!”