Each month we spotlight a different CFA athlete who stands out and shows just how awesome they are. What is it that makes up an Athlete of the Month? It may not be the person that finishes the fastest, Rx’s every WOD, or gets a PR every time they walk in the gym. Although we love and celebrate when those things happen, the Athlete of the Month is made up of much more than physical ability. This person shows up, gives their best every time, and then gives a little more. They are hungry to learn and always ready to do the work. They support their fellow classmates and encourage them to reach their goals. This athlete embodies what we believe the CrossFit Austin Community should be about.
Our December Athlete of the Month is Heidi Childers Jones! Heidi came to us from the Windy City back in May of 2016 and has established a solid place for herself with our 7:30 am coffee crew. Her cool energy and amazing work ethic is such a bright spot in the mornings and we have absolutely loved getting to know her and all the cools things she’s dabbled in! Heidi exemplifies so many of the qualities we look for in an AOM and is a great example for her two gorgeous girls at home. We have loved watching her progress and getting to know her friendly spirit along the way. Heidi, the CFA Team is proud to honor you as our December Athlete of the Month and as an awesome part of this community. Thanks for your all your hard work and we look forward to seeing all you accomplish in the years to come! Congratulations!
State your Name and/or Nickname please:
Heidi Roxanne Childers Jones. What a mouthful! They used to call me “Rox” at my old box, but it just feels funny to be back at home in Texas going by anything other than “Heidi.” 😉
Words to live by?
“Never stop learning,” and “Do you.” Out of all the poetic motivational quotes I’ve loved over the years, I always come back to these basic, no-frills pieces of advice. The former keeps you growing and challenging yourself. The latter keeps you out of everyone else’s business and keeps you firmly in the driver’s seat of your own life.
What is your fitness background?
I actually spent most of my life terribly insecure about my body and my abilities, so I didn’t get into fitness until I was an adult. I danced throughout high school and continued to dance for a company in my early 20s. I started working out in a gym to lose my stubborn Freshman 50 (yes, you read that right: 50, not 15) that stuck around well after I’d graduated from college. That eventually led me to pursue an MS in Kinesiology and Exercise Physiology and a part-time career as a personal trainer in big-box gyms and boutique gyms. Eventually, I earned my license in Clinical Massage Therapy and studied Thai Massage and Bodywork, and I continue to work with clients from my home in South Austin.
How long have you been CrossFitting?
I’ve been working out at a Crossfit gym since 2013, but didn’t really do WODs until I joined CFA in spring of 2016.
Take us back to your first day of CrossFit… How did you feel? How do you compare it to workouts today?
Truthfully, I was a little hesitant. I spent many years as an outspoken Crossfit critic because I’d had so many clients come train with me after hurting themselves in poorly programmed or poorly coached Crossfit workouts. I knew I was in responsible hands at CFA, but I was extra careful not to go too hard too soon. It was — and still is — so hard! There’s a huge difference between training solo and training with like-minded friends. It’s refreshing and motivating, which means the workouts never get any easier; you just get faster and stronger. 🙂
What’s your favorite part of CrossFit Austin?
The late-morning tribe. Shout-out to the 7:30am crew and coaches!
Current Training Goals/PRs?
I constantly joke that I simply want to “suck less,” but honestly I just want to build a stronger upper body and get comfy being upside down.
What advice do you have for folks just starting out in CrossFit?
Don’t get caught up in the hype and let your ego get the best of you. Focus on technique, greasing the groove, and do you. There is absolutely no shame in scaling and listening to your body. We’re not all here to go to the Games!
What is your cheat meal go to?
Ice cream or oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. I can make a case for the utility and nutrient value in most meals, but let’s face it: sweets are pretty much just delicious sugar-bombs that I can’t defend!
How do you use your fitness outside of the gym?
I try to showcase badassery around my kids at all times in any fashion, whether that’s having cartwheel competitions in the backyard or running around with them and our dog. I’m also getting into yoga, and I’ve been known to be an easy-sell when it comes to competitions/events. I think I’ve already gotten talked into a triathlon and another Spartan race in 2018… Whoops.
Tell us about a moment you felt most proud of yourself during a workout.
It feels awesome anytime I surprise myself, and it’s usually because a coach talks me into trying something harder than I think I can handle. Most recently, it’s been a progression on a HSPU. Thanks Coach Ben and Coach Gen! 🙂
If you could create a WOD and name it for yourself, what would it be?
“Rox” would have to be something tough right? I honestly don’t know what torture it would entail, but I can tell you there’d be absolutely no running or burpees involved. Other than that, let’s throw some weight around!
What are your hobbies, interests and/or talents outside of CrossFit?
Yoga, reading, travel, massage, and working on a business plan are taking up most of my time these days. Oh, and shamelessly obsessing about my dog on social media.
Tell us something we don’t know about you…
I’m a pretty open book, but it’s only recently come out that I’m a massage therapist, so CFA, holler at your girl.
Longhorns for life. HOOK EM!
Leave the fine folks of CrossFit Austin with some parting words…
Never stop learning. And, of course, do you. *high five*
