March Athlete of the Month: Deb Armstrong
Congratulations, Deb! You are the NoCoast Athlete of the Month!!!
Deb has been a NoCoast member for the past 16 months and her consistency has been top notch since she’s started! We are so impressed with her dedication to the gym and we love Deb’s commitment to data driven health; glucose monitoring nutrition, monthly InBody testing, and a data driven fitness plan. Deb has lost 5% body fat and gained 2 lbs of muscle mass! Congrats to all of your success, Deb, you’ve earned it and we are so grateful for you!
Quotes from Deb:
“CrossFit demands accountability. For this reason, I find it complements nutrition. I did my first InBody test last January at the beginning of the nutrition challenge. As a commitment to my overall fitness and nutrition, each month I do an InBody test. Over the past year, my body weight decreased 4.5 lbs., body fat decreased 5%, and, most importantly, muscle mass increased 2 lbs.”
“I strongly encourage everyone to complete a baseline InBody test, if you haven't already. This is an excellent tool provided by NoCoast that gives additional insights into your body health. Then, be accountable and track your growth with quarterly or monthly check-ins.”
Age/Weight:
51 / 107 lbs
Athletic/Sports history/highlights:
A long, long time ago, I ran cross country in high school and college. My entire family is physically active and participates in sports. My husband and I have been avid hikers since we met and are always game for anything outdoors.
How long have you been CrossFitting?
My first experience with CrossFit was when I joined NoCoast 16 months ago when I was looking to establish a better fitness routine during the pandemic.
What is your favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?
WODs that excite me the most are those that push me harder than I thought possible, particularly WODs that involve multiple muscle groups. The best feeling is showing up the next day to work out the lactic acid in sore legs, abs and lats.
What is your least favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?
Aren't those the movements I need to work on to improve?!?!
What is your most memorable CrossFit moment?
There are two unique types of poignant moments I've experienced at NoCoast. First, is crushing (or attempting) a new skill that I didn't think I had the strength to execute, like handstand pushups. The other highlight is making connections with the people at NoCoast. I am grateful to be surrounded and encouraged by such a wide range of smart, strong, and charismatic athletes.
How does nutrition play a role in your fitness and recovery?
Fitness and recovery are 99% what you put in your mouth. Over the past year, nutrition has been a top high priority of mine.
How is Glucose Monitoring different from other nutrition guidelines?
About 2 months ago, I started monitoring my blood glucose levels and closely tracking macro- and micro-nutrients. Tracking my blood glucose before/after I eat has been a game changer as there is immediate feedback on the impact of foods. Before I put food in my mouth, I make a conscious decision to ensure that it will provide the right fuel and nutrients for my body. Additionally, I have a zero-processed food policy in my kitchen and enjoy cooking with fresh ingredients. Lately, I have been experimenting with fermenting and pickling to improve my micronutrients and gut health. You will, however, still find me and my husband enjoying a beer at the local brewery every weekend!
How has CrossFit improved your overall wellness?
CrossFit demands accountability. For this reason, I find it complements nutrition. I did my first InBody test last January at the beginning of the nutrition challenge. As a commitment to my overall fitness and nutrition, each month I do an InBody test. Over the past year, my body weight decreased 4.5 lbs., body fat decreased 5%, and, most importantly, muscle mass increased 2 lbs.
How has CrossFit changed your family?
haha -- my family just thinks it's another one of my crazy endeavors.
Advice to new people:
It's important to connect with people at NoCoast. Everyone can teach, motivate, and support you. Plus, it's always interesting to ask people random questions like, "how do you use chips to count rounds?" Each person has a different -- and sometimes odd -- strategy!
Advice to ALL:
I strongly encourage everyone to complete a baseline InBody test, if you haven't already. This is an excellent tool provided by NoCoast that gives additional insights into your body health. Then, be accountable and track your growth with quarterly or monthly check-ins.