AUGUST Athlete of the Month – Erika Knepple!
How long have you been with CrossFit Torrent and what made you decide to start?
I love to challenge myself physically and mentally and I have watched the CrossFit Games for years and wanted to give it a try.
What do you do when you’re not at CFT?
Wife, Mom, soon to be Grandma in September 2021! I love the beach, riding my bike and running also.
When did you realize that CrossFit is right for you?
Literally, the first workout.
What were your thoughts after your first WOD?
Probably something like, “oh dead Lord”.
What is your favorite or least favorite WOD/movement?
Favorite- Power cleans and deadlifts. I don’t think I have a least favorite, just many skills I am working to be proficient at still. Never going to love the bike though. 🙁
What is the one thing you have done at CFT that you never thought you would do?
Be Athlete of the Month 🙂 I love it when I get to check the Rx button on Wodify.
What motivates you during a tough workout?
Remembering my “why” and looking around at all the other athletes crushing it.
What’s your favorite thing about CrossFit?
The coaches and athletes. It feels like we are all a family.
What are your short term and long term goals?
Short term- Working on consistent attendance. Long term- Increase strength and endurance and muscle definition.
Have you seen yourself change- mentally and physically since joining Torrent?
Absolutely! I have seen how my mind gets in the way of my physical abilities. Working on keeping that in check.
What impact has CFT had on you in and out of the gym?
Confidence, commitment, discipline, accountability.
Do you have any advice for people just getting started at CFT?
Don’t be overwhelmed, settle in and listen to your body as you adjust to the various workouts. Have fun. Have grace with yourself. Smile.
Quick Questions
Favorite Cheat Meal: Pizza. More specifically “the Radagast” from Bilbos on a whole wheat crust with a side of dill dip.
Favorite Musician/Band: I pretty much love ALL music – I am totally a channel surfer, but will always have a soft spot for 80’s music.
Favorite Sports Team: Whatever teams my kids played for. 🙂
Favorite Tv Show/ Movie: The Proposal or Sweet Home Alabama.
Favorite CrossFit Athlete: My Coaches – not being a brown noser – I am amazed at their mastery of each skill and can break it down and teach it to everyone else. Otherwise – old school, Rich Froning and up and coming Haley Adams – She is amazing!!
Coaches comments:
I’m so happy Erika is finally AOTM! She is always kind and welcoming to other members and is so fun to coach. Even with a busy schedule and facing adversity she gives her best effort every day! She has been dedicated to the physical fitness and has made major improvements in her self talk and love. I am so proud of Erika and I can’t wait to see how she grows in the next year. Keep being you, Erika. I appreciate you. -Callie
Erika gives so much to every workout and her hard work has paid off! She had made huge gains in strength, speed, and technique. She’s a great team player, helping out others and going above and beyond (especially during the Open and the Ragnar). -Bri
Erika is the definition of “Mom strength”. She comes in every day and works her butt off. She has massive goals and I’ve already seen her crush many! A truly impressive individual. She is a wonderful member of the Torrent Fam and we are so lucky to have her. -Morgan
Her effort is always 100%, and now she’s added the consistency, maturity, and mindset that makes someone an athlete for life. Erika has been nothing short of excellent in her growth. – Brandon
Erika is so much stronger than she gives herself credit for. I was standing behind her during warmup and could see all of the amazing back muscles she’s developed but you don’t necessarily see in the mirror. She always has time to help or chat with other athletes. -Michelle