July Athlete of the Month: Gina Jeary

Congratulations Gina, you are our July Athlete of the Month!

Gina has been a part of our NoCoast community for the past 4 years and, in that time, has given birth to two beautiful girls. Through both pregnancies, Gina stayed active at NoCoast and used movement as a way to feel good through pregnancy, delivery, and recovery. We love that Gina has trusted us with her health and fitness through her pregnancies and we appreciate the dedication she has had getting back in the gym after recovery.

Thank you, Gina, for being a part of our community and for being such a positive influence for all of us, especially all our pregnant and postpartum mommas!!

Quotes from Gina:

“My favorite part about CrossFit when I first started was how judgment free it is. This community is genuinely thrilled for anyone who steps through the door to take a class. It is a group of people who become your biggest cheerleader no matter your skill level, they truly care about your health and well being. So take that first class, do what you can and join this amazing community!”

“The CrossFit community has shown us how awesome life can be when exercise and nutrition is a priority and we want to instill this in our daughters. The community at NoCoast is like no other and it has given our family a social outlet with amazing like minded people!”

“I CrossFitted up to 38 weeks with both my daughters and most days it was the best part of my day. Moving while pregnant felt so great and I looked forward to class every day. I believe it played a crucial role in my deliveries and was the reason my recovery was so smooth.”

Age:

36

Athletic/Sports history/highlights:

I started in gymnastics when I was very young. I continued gymnastics up until high school when I switched to competitive cheerleading. I continued competitive cheer throughout high school and college. Competing in cheer and bringing home first place trophies was always a highlight. Another highlight was the year our very small D1 college basketball team that we cheered for made it to the NCAA tournament!

How long have you been CrossFitting?

Since 2014

How did you get into CrossFit?

I was getting discouraged at the "gym" finding myself spending merely 20 minutes on the elliptical getting bored and going home. I was looking for direction. My whole life I was on a team with a coach and I was missing that! I thought about taking classes, zumba, yoga, kick boxing etc.. but nothing really piqued my interest, and I really wanted to find something Michael and I could do together. That is when I stumbled upon CrossFit. I loved the gymnastics aspect and I knew Michael would enjoy the weightlifting. It seemed like the perfect couples exercise program for us.

What is your favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?

Surprisingly it's Murph. Not so much the workout, but the meaning behind it and the way the entire global CrossFit community comes together on Memorial Day. My favorite movement is the push jerk.

What is your least favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?

Fran and thrusters!

What is your most memorable CrossFit moment?

Definitely spectating at the CrossFit Games. Michael and I have gone to watch a handful of the CrossFit Games. We've been to Carson and Madison. The most memorable was obviously last year when we got to cheer on Dan!

How does nutrition play a role in your fitness and recovery?

Nutrition is an ongoing opportunity for me. I grew up with a Scicilian father who shows his love through food, he's an excellent cook! So, I really enjoy food, especially Italian food. I've worked with an awesome nutritionist off and on the last few years and she has helped me tremendously. It definitely takes a conscious effort on my part.

How has CrossFit improved your overall wellness?

CrossFit has fulfilled so many aspects of my life. It has not only improved my overall wellness, but it has given me a community I love and respect. The CrossFit community is so full of knowledge, education and resources to help us all be the best we can be both physically and mentally. We have also found life long friends through CrossFit, for example we met Ian back in 2014 at the first CrossFit gym we joined!