hy do you train?
I train to feel stronger, to feel healthier, to support my mental health, and because it’s fun.
What motivates you?
I’m motivated by success and progress and by the encouragement of others. I like setting goals for myself and putting in the work to make them happen.
How does training help you in your daily life?
Training and becoming stronger has really transformed my entire experience in life. I’m better able to to do all things whether its stacking and carrying bundles of firewood into our house during the winter, sitting for long periods of time for my job, or hitting the dance floor for a Zumba class – it all seems easier since feeling stronger and training at Paradigm.
Why do you choose Paradigm Sport?
The facility – it’s the nicest! I like being in the space itself; the layout, the cleanliness, the music, the overall decor, all add something that put me in the mindset to workout The community – my first workout was the family/friends workout for Thanksgiving 2018 and I was blown away with the sense of community I felt right away. Months later when I finally joined, everyone was so welcoming and encouraging, it made it really easy to want to be there! The trainers – are the best! Their level of knowledge and ability to challenge and support and encourage is what makes Paradigm the high quality gym in my opinion. I always feel supported as a client in every class I’m in, whether it’s Team or Small Group. They know what my strengths and weaknesses are, and always take the time to offer a correction, modification, or a word of encouragement.
What is your training/athletic background?
My 1 year anniversary at Paradigm will be in April; prior to Paradigm I was a member at many local gyms in Santa Cruz over the last 10 years. I grew up dancing, playing volleyball, and in high school played volleyball and ran track. In the off season between sports in high school I was in the weight room lifting and training and always felt the strongest at the beginnings of seasons. I hadn’t strength trained since high school and I didn’t realize how much I had missed it until I started coming to Paradigm. I started going to Zumba 6 years ago and it’s definitely one of my favorite “hobbies”
Can you describe your Level Up experience?
I’ve participated in Level Up twice – both experiences were really positive. In my first experience I was really surprised at how well I did. I somehow made the leader board for the versa climber, and successfully did most exercises in the “Intermediate” level – except for the rower!! My rowing time needed major work for me to meet the time for Intermediate. Over the next 3 months I worked with Zach Egan as often as I could breaking down my form, technique, and overall rowing experience to try to improve my 500m row time. On my second Level Up day the hard work had paid off and I made my goal time! It felt like such a huge success that I was so proud of, and it feels great to see my name up on the board under “Intermediate”!
