May 2023 Athlete of the Month
May 2023 Athlete of the Month
Clare McKenna
Coach’s Thoughts:
I was there the first day Clare tried CrossFit and when she says she was barely able to air squat she’s being 100% serious..flash forward to earlier this week when I watched her back squat 200lbs (easily). The educator in her thrives off of feedback and takes coaching cues and turns them into what feels like immediate success. Our 6:30PM class has grown into one of the most close knit and positive classes at CCF and Clare is one of the main reasons for that! Also, her laugh is just infectious :) Congratulations Clare!
How long have you been doing CrossFit?
I started CrossFit when I joined CCF in March 2021. My partner, Abe, encouraged me to “just go once and see if you like it.” I secretly believe he knew I’d fall in love and end up forcing him back into a regular CrossFit routine of his own. Here we are, two years later!
Favorite Movement?
Power cleans and ring dips
What advice would you give to someone who is hesitant to start CrossFit?
Just try! I started CrossFit having never touched a barbell and barely able to air squat (no, really). One of the coolest things, which is as true for me today as it was then, is the opportunity to learn something new and to work to get better every time I walk in the gym. Our coaches help you scale any movement you need and it’s empowering to watch yourself progress and become stronger over time.
Favorite thing about CCF?
Our community! Everyone at CCF is so welcoming and encouraging. 6:30 pm workouts are the best part of my day - no matter what mood I enter the gym, I always leave smiling and laughing with friends. Close second: a Tuesday night Clint playlist.
What do you do when you’re not at CCF (job, hobbies, other fitness, etc)?
I work at a non-profit that partners with schools and community orgs utilizing design thinking to co-create culturally responsive and equitable learning communities. Outside of work, I’m usually exploring any and all Detroit restaurants with Abe, walking on Belle Isle or in Woodbridge, or dreaming up our next house project.
What is your next big fitness goal?
Handstand walks!
