Client Success Story Questionnaire
Name: Noelle Hirsch
Age: 28
Occupation: School Social Worker
What is your athletic background?
I played sports all throughout growing up and as I became an adult, I enjoyed being a part of a gym/athletic program, trying new fitness classes, and picked up running where I ran a few different long distance races and ultimately ran the Chicago Marathon! Jury is still out on whether I'll ever do it again.
What was your workout routine prior to CF Spero?
I was going to spin classes a couple times a week and the occasional walk/run on the off days.
What was your first experience with CrossFit?
When I joined Spero!
When did you start CF?
June 2022!
Why did you choose CF Spero?
When looking for a CrossFit gym in the area, Spero was the first one to come up on the google search. Upon visiting, Gio, who did my initial consultation, was very friendly, knowledgeable and reassuring. I loved the space and it just felt like the right place to start. I signed up later that day!
What keeps you coming back?
The awesome coaches, the challenging workouts and the feeling I get after every session. CrossFit was the challenge I was looking for and I feel I'm stronger every time I go.
Why do you live in the Oak Park Area?
I originally moved to Oak Park to be closer to grad school (Loyola University of Chicago) back in 2017. Oak Park is the perfect mix of suburbs and the city. In addition, I have a lot of family and friends in the area and continue to develop a stronger local community. I ended up buying my first home here - I love it so much!
What do you do for a living?
I am a school social worker for a private therapeutic day school in the southwest suburbs. I primarily work with middle school and high school aged children who have Autism and Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities.
How do you like to spend your free time?
I love to travel, taking my dog, Louie, for walks, grabbing coffee, spending time with my family and friends, spending time outdoors, experiencing new restaurants/places/activities, photography.. to name a few..
What are one or two improvements you have seen in your life since starting CF?
One huge improvement is my overall physical health. I feel stronger, more balanced and more capable.
Second, my eating habits have improved (Thanks Abbie G).
My mental health has also improved - CF really challenges me to stay mobile, try new things and give it my all which has been a great outlet for me! That was more than two, sorry.
What is the biggest change you have seen since starting CF?
Since starting CrossFit, the biggest changes have been in my physical health and appearance. I've healthfully lost weight and gained muscle - ayyyoo!
What are your goals for 2022?
I think a word I have for 2023 is consistency. I want to set goals that relate to the continuation of finding more sustainable routines for myself and continue the journey of improving myself in all aspects of my life.
Why did you decide to add Nutrition Coaching in the Twelve Week Transformation and how did it help you achieve your goals?
I was eating "healthy" but didn't feel necessarily any difference from my day to day. I was struggling with how to properly nourish my body, especially after an intense workout. I've done Whole 30 before and had great results but knowing it was a short term diet plan - I needed help finding something sustainable and maintainable. Nutrition coaching helped me identify portions, balance my meals and how to actually care for myself through food. Nutrition Coaching helped me work out better and be more prepared for my weeks. It also has helped me shed some weight and get me in an overall healthier balanced state.
What's your favorite and least favorite CF movement?
Favorite - I love the challenge of anything that has to do with the barbell and building to a heavy set. I also love renegade rows. Least favorite, I don't know if this counts but those assault bikes are the bane of my existence.. and burpees.
What's your favorite meal?
I enjoy so many kinds of dishes but one of my most favorites would have to be a good steak, vegetable and potato.
What would you say to someone thinking about starting CF?
DO IT. It's not as scary as it seems. It's a supportive community that really just wants to help you get to the best version of yourself.
Anything else you would like to share with the Spero family?
Thank you for always being kind. Spero is filled with genuinely kind and fun people. I enjoy working out alongside you!