Congrats to our November Athlete Spotlight - Sheila!
Tell us about yourself.
I'm Zambian and Indian, and I began CrossFit about a year ago. Growing up in a multicultural environment has shaped much of who I am, and CrossFit has become a significant part of my journey.
2. What made you start CrossFit?
I consider myself an adventurous person, and CrossFit was both intriguing and terrifying, I knew I had to give it a go. My childhood friend, Maryanne, had been encouraging (and harassing!) me to join for a while. She came at me from all angles, sending me countless inspirational CrossFit success stories, which finally convinced me to take the plunge
3. What do you enjoy most about Imperial and/or CrossFit in general?
CrossFit represents the difficult changes I’ve made over the years to transform my life. I take pride in choosing to go to the gym after work, even on difficult days. It’s something I’ve always envisioned as part of a healthy and successful life. Each visit is a small victory that reminds me of the progress I’ve made along the way.
4. What’s your most favorite and least favorite movement/lift?
I really enjoy single-arm dumbbell snatches—I’ve worked my way up to 30 pounds! My next favorite is toes-to-bar, which I’m actively working on improving. As for my least favorite movement, it has to be putting the box away after box jumps.
5. What impact has CrossFit had on your life inside/outside of the gym?
CrossFit made me aware of the negative messaging we often internalize about what’s possible in your 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond. I love seeing people not only stay fit but also smash through their fitness goals. While I hear the occasional grumble about not being able to lift as heavy, having lived in other countries, I can honestly say that the people at my little gym in Kent, Washington, are exceptional.
6. When you’re not CrossFitting, what is your favorite thing to do?
I’ve recently taken up yoga, and I enjoy Ashtanga, Yin, and Vinyasa styles. I’m also always up for new experiences—one of the more memorable ones recently was attending a rodeo (with a hat, of course)!
7. What piece of advice would you give to someone who is just starting out/thinking of joining?
In my cultural experience, it’s not typical for women to go to the gym. This can make it feel awkward or out of place to prioritize personal health in such a public setting. I would encourage women from other cultures who feel like they are out of place to come and join me!
8. Tell us about your results/how far you’ve come since joining!
For me, the biggest is that I honored my commitment to go and have continued for over a year. I think all the people in my life that love and support me know how much this means to me.
9. Free-write:
Maryanne, my childhood bestie, thank you for helping me push my boundries and redefine what and who I can be.
