Name: Brenna Gould Age: 29 From: Mendon, Michigan
How long have you been with CrossFit Torrent and what made you decide to start?
I’ve been with Torrent since January of this year. I joined because Corey and Shelby both talked to me about the 28 Day Challenge. I knew I needed something to get me back on track. I had lost 70 lbs in the year and a half prior, but had struggled in the months before joining to maintain the loss and stay motivated. I was so bored with the treadmill and elliptical, and Corey and Shelby both talked super highly of Torrent and CrossFit in general.
What do you do when you’re not at CFT?
Wish I was at CFT 🙁 Just kidding. Sometimes, though. If I’m not at work as a Loan Officer for Consumers Credit Union, I’m usually spending time with my friends, outside exploring a park, or watching TV – probably Jeopardy or a football game if it’s my choice.
When did you realize that CrossFit is right for you?
Almost immediately. I loved the community of the classes and the idea of getting to see myself improve over time. I had also never really been introduced to weightlifting before and I loved that I got to leave my workouts feeling strong instead of just drained, like I did after the treadmill or elliptical.
What were your thoughts after your first WOD?
A word you probably don’t want to publish… lol. But, essentially, “What have I gotten myself into? There’s no way I’m making it through 27 more days of this”. Something like 300 days later (I’m bad at math), and I’m still making it through.
What is your favorite or least favorite WOD/movement?
Favorite – anything with a squat or snatch. Least favorite – power clean. Sorry, Grant.
What is the one thing you have done at CFT that you never thought you would do?
All of it?! Seriously, though, I never would’ve thought I could do 90% of the things I do on a daily basis. Just making it through a particularly difficult WOD is still surprising to me. Some others include: participating in competitions, lifting my body weight, seeing actual muscles in my arms, and getting up at 4 a.m. 😉
What motivates you during a tough workout?
Usually getting to the end of it… lol. But also I like the feeling once I’ve completed the WOD and I get to say “I did that!”. I’m also very competitive so I usually go into a workout with a particular goal in mind. Getting to that goal usually helps me through!
What’s your favorite thing about CrossFit?
I love that literally anyone can do it. I never have to worry about whether I can do a workout because it can be scaled to what’s best for me. I also love the community atmosphere. I feel like I get to come hang out with my friends every day, and we just happen to be working out while we’re hanging out.
What are your short term and long term goals?
Short term – Figure out how to not screw up a power clean even though Grant has dedicated a solid amount of time exclusively to trying to teach me this.
Long term – Rx Murph. So I guess to get there I have to do pull ups. And running… Someday…
How have you seen yourself change- mentally and physically since joining Torrent? What impact has CFT had on you in and out of the gym?
Mentally I feel like I’m a much happier person. I feel like I have something positive to look forward to every day. Having goals to reach has also helped me so much. Physically I’ve lost 30 more pounds and, of course, I’ve gotten a lot stronger!
Do you have any advice for people just getting started at CFT?
Don’t be afraid to scale, don’t be hard on yourself if you don’t get a movement right away, and always have fun!
Quick Questions
Favorite Cheat Meal: Spaghetti! And ice cream. And beer. Maybe not together.
Favorite Musician/Band: Mitchell Tenpenny
Favorite Sports Team: Chicago Cubs & Detroit Lions. I like disappointment.
Favorite Tv Show/ Movie: TV Show – Grey’s Anatomy and The Office, Movie – Titanic
Favorite CrossFit Athlete: Laura Horvath
Coach’s comment: Brenna is one of the most consistent athletes we have and her hard work sure pays off. When we choose an AOTM we always consider how this person fits into our core values of HUMBLE, DRIVEN & PEOPLE SMART. Brenna checks the box for all three. She shows up every day and gives her best, is okay trying new things, isn’t afraid to fail and encourages everyone around her. Brenna has that special things where when you meet her you want to be her friend. Here is what some of the other coaches had to say about Brenna!
“Never afraid to let you know that she is not into the situation but damned if she is going to give up ever. Always has a sense of humor no matter how hard it is.” -Grant
“Besides always looking fantastic, so much stronger than she gives herself credit for. She killed the 5×5 back squats!”-Michelle
“Always get the best from her.”-Brandon
“Strong mentally strong physically. Always shows up to do her best.”-Morgan