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Kathleen McClelland
Age: 37
Occupation: Research and Strategy at Salesforce
What is your athletic background?
I played tennis seriously for about 6-7 years in middle school and high school, and trained year round. I hope to pick it back up again soon!
What was your workout routine before CF Spero?
3-4 months before joining Spero I did very little. Took a few long walks with friends each week and that’s all. Before that I used to do workouts at home especially during the pandemic - but nothing with weights - just dance and sculpt classes.
What was your first experience with Crossfit?
I think my first experience seeing it was watching Murph - which looked as intense as it probably was.
When did you start CF?
I started mid-December 2021. I was taking time in between jobs and wanted to use that free time to focus on CF.
Why did you choose CF Spero?
Spero is so close and has such great recommendations. I felt like it was a place I could fit in and thrive.
What keeps you coming back?
I’m motivated to be near the top of the committed club! But really, every day I go, I learn something new. I challenge myself. It’s always hard. I’m always sore. But doing CrossFit at Spero reminds me I can do hard things. I’ve seen so much improvement for myself and I really appreciate the community and the coaching.
What do you like about Oak Park?
I moved here for the east access to the blue line - and now I work from home! I've stayed for the great public schools, walkability and diverse community. My friends here are my family.
What do you do for a living?
I recently started at Salesforce in research and strategy. I've been in this line of work for about 12 years - but this is my first tech company and I love it!
How do you like to spend your free time?
I love listening to podcasts and reading. I love hanging out with my kids, my friends and my dog. I love playing piano for fun too.
What are one or two improvements you have seen in your life since starting CF?
I am mentally and physically stronger!
What is the biggest change you have seen since starting CF?
I did the 12 week transformation program and saw a big jump in muscle mass and drop in body fat percentage. Now that I am in month 5, I am noticing definition in my muscles that I don't think I ever had before.
What are you goals for 2022?
I want to do a pull up without bands. I want to do a handstand. I want to stay committed to keep coming to classes 5-6 days a week.
What are you favorite and least favorite CF movements?
I like snatches. They make me feel powerful. Overhead squats are the hardest for me, so maybe that is my least favorite - but I am working on it and maybe it won't be my least favorite forever.
What is your favorite meal?
I love spinach salad with grape tomatoes, walnuts or almonds, avocado, hard boiled egg and any delicious cubed or crumbled cheese. I don't cook much - I mostly will assemble food and I like meals that are easy and healthy.
What would you say to someone thinking about starting CrossFit?
Ask questions, ask for help - and get the form right before you add too much weight. Don't be discouraged or if you are, talk to a coach. There are so many acronyms that I couldn't remember for weeks. The movements aren't intuitive and by the workout I would often forget all the tips and explanations from the beginning of class. Sometimes I felt discouraged but I realized it was because I was comparing myself to others who were CrossFit veterans instead of to myself. Now I focus on my own results and improvements and I feel really good.
Anything else you would like to share with the Spero family?
Thank you for all the fist bumps, high 5's, and words of encouragement. It's the best to know we're in this together!
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