What brought you to enduraLAB? Before enduraLAB I had always been a member of big box gyms which work great for some people, but I felt like I hit a plateau and wasn't making progress. I stuck to the same exercises that I knew well and was too intimidated to try new things or just didn't know where to start. I really wanted to learn the fundamentals and to find a community.
What did your workout routine look like before joining the LAB? I seriously neglected my mobility, core and upper body strength before the lab mainly due to lack of knowledge. One of my favorite things about eL is that the workouts are well thought out and planned for you, so all you have to do is show up. I also feel like I push myself harder in a group setting.
What healthy changes have you made since joining the LAB? I've been sleeping a lot better since joining. I've really tried to prioritize my sleep and it's made a huge difference.
Tell us what you do outside of the LAB? I'm a director of business development for The Starr Conspiracy. I also can't go more than 6 weeks without having an adventure planned.
How have you grown as an athlete since joining the LAB? Brag a little. Considering pre-eL I couldn't do a pushup and was doing squats all wrong - I'd say I've come a long way! I feel way more self aware and confident when I'm working out. I love that the coaches are always helping with form. There's no better feeling than hitting a new pr.
What is a goal you have set for yourself in the next 6 months? My biggest goal is to just show up every day with a purpose or intention. It's a cliche, but getting 1% better everyday makes a huge difference in the long run. My goals are long term because I don't see eL as just a gym I go to, but very much integrated into my lifestyle.
What is your favorite enduraLAB event or program? I like the clinics a lot! It's a fun way to learn new movements.
What advice would you have for a new person starting at enduraLAB? You can do a lot more than you think you can! The lab is a safe place to get outside your comfort zone and really push yourself. The coaches are always there to encourage you and to make sure you're on the right track. The best time to start is now no matter where you are in your fitness journey.
Favorite cheat meal/restaurant in D/FW? Hatsuyuki is the spot here in FW- I could eat salmon belly all day. In Dallas my favorite places are Cafe Madrid and Toulouse.
Current read / podcast? I'm a big reader. Some of my favorite authors are Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Malcolm Gladwell and David Sedaris. Right now I'm reading a book called "Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess" by Dr. Caroline Leaf - she's a cognitive neuroscientist and researcher. The book talks about how to mitigate the damage to your brain caused by stress (that we all experience as part of the human condition). It's backed up by a ton of science and I just love all of Dr. Leaf's work in the field. Also ask me about Drunk by Edward Slingerland.
Pump up song? My summer jam is "Kiss Me More" by Doja Cat and SZA.
Any final words or thoughts? enduraLAB is the best part of my day. I love you guys!
