Kaitlin Schuler
Age: 29
From: Chicago, IL
How long have you been with CrossFit Torrent and what made you decide to start?
I joined Torrent in September 2020, so I’ve been at it for a little over a year. I moved to Kalamazoo from Chicago at the start of the pandemic, and by the fall, I missed having a community and needed a way to meet friends locally. I was also ready to get my butt off the couch and back into a regular fitness routine. Torrent is a three-minute drive from my place and had great reviews, and my free trial was a lot of fun (thanks, Morgan and Meredith!), so I took the plunge and signed up.
When did you realize that CrossFit is right for you?
I knew by the end of my free trial. Even without knowing all of the movements or terms, I had fun and had one of the best workouts of my life to that point, and I knew it would be something I could stick with. I am very much not an at-home workout person (despite being an introvert!), so having a friendly and welcoming place like Torrent was key.
What were your thoughts after your first WOD?
A mix of “wow, I’m out of shape” and “that was fun, I’m ready to make this a regular thing!”
What is your favorite or least favorite WOD/movement?
Favorite: Deadlifts and wall walks.
Least favorite: Anything involving running. I am slooow and I get bored very quickly during any length run!
What is the one thing you have done at CFT that you never thought you would do?
There are so many things. HSPUs and deadlifting more than 240# come to mind first though.
What motivates you during a tough workout?
Knowing that there is always an end to any hard workout, and that I’ve made it through other tough workouts, so I can certainly do it again.
What’s your favorite thing about CrossFit?
It has made fitness fun for me again. It no longer feels like a chore to get to the gym, and it feels like I’ve finally got a little community in Kalamazoo.
What are your short term and long term goals?
I turn 30 next November, and I’d very much like to get an unassisted pullup and reliable double unders by then. Longer term than that, I’d love to tackle handstand walks and at least one bar muscle-up.
How have you seen yourself change- mentally and physically since joining Torrent?
My confidence has grown quite a bit since I joined last year. I still have so much to learn and practice, but I feel able to provide some guidance and a friendly face for new people joining the gym, especially those like me, who may be more introverted and less likely to initiate conversation or ask questions. It’s great to feel like I can use my own experience to help people with their fitness journey, and a lot of that is because others at Torrent did that for me.
What impact has CFT had on you in and out of the gym?
Crossfit reminds me that I’m capable of a lot more than I often think. Even on “bad” days, there’s always some part of the workout that I’m proud I accomplished, and I’m able to walk away feeling even a little more confident. That carries over into day to day life as well. I feel more capable in general and able to take on challenges, inside the gym or out.
Do you have any advice for people just getting started at CFT?
Stick with it, and remember that you’re not competing against others in the gym. We’re all coming to Crossfit from different backgrounds and circumstances, and what matters is your own personal progress and journey. Also, finding one or two people you vibe with and can count on for accountability is huge; it makes it much easier for me to show up, even on the days I’d rather be at home on the couch, when I know that someone else is expecting me to be there!
Quick Questions
Favorite Cheat Meal: Wendy’s crispy chicken sandwich and a chocolate Frosty
Favorite TV show/ Movie: Grey’s Anatomy, hands down. I’ve watched it more than 10 times through…
Favorite CrossFit Athlete: Olivia Kerstetter. This was the first year I had watched the Games, and she’s so young and athletic and hopeful, and I love that.
Coaches Comments:
Kaitlin… I still remember thinking how coachable you were and how well you moved at your trial class and you’re still killing it. You are totally one of my go-to athletes for newcomers to watch and learn from. Our community is better with you in it! We love you! (Also I am so glad I’m not alone in binging Grey’s Anatomy 10+ times) – Morgan
Kaitlin is not just a supportive friend to other members but also a great example of how an athlete progresses through hard work and consistency. I look forward to not just coaching her each day but working out alongside her. – Brandon
Kaitlin has been consistent from the very start of her CrossFit career and it has been paying off in PR’s. She is so welcoming to everyone that walks in the door and such a great ambassador. Plus she has mad crochet skills! Love coaching and working out with her. – Michelle