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 Alyson Bentley! Alyson has been a part of the CFA family for about a year and a half now, but she was no stranger to CrossFit when she started! Alyson and Coach Mark actually go back to their college days in Lubbock, training and competing together! Alyson is most regularly an early AM gal, but you’ll occasionally find her popping into other classes, always making fitness a priority in her schedule. Alyson is a serious #badassbabe! She exemplifies so many of the qualities we look for in an AOM and has shown some awesome progress in her time here. Alyson, 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:
Alyson Bentley
Words to live by?
Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.
What is your fitness background?
I was a competitive cheerleader for many years and stumbled across Crossfit when I decided I wanted to get stronger. I figured if I could throw some weights around I could get become stronger at throwing my body around!
How long have you been CrossFitting?
5 years!
Take us back to your first day of CrossFit… How did you feel? How do you compare it to workouts today?
My first day of Crossfit I was so anxious. I had to do a series of elements classes which totaled to two weeks of learning the basics before I was able to actually join in the Crossfit classes and do my first wod. I hopped in there a little intimidated by all the amazing athletes but quickly found my place among them. Crossfit has changed my life and brought out a side of myself most wouldn’t see at first glance. It allows me to challenge myself and be both mentally and physically strong!
What’s your favorite part of CrossFit Austin?
Crossfit Austin is the bomb because of all the amazing coaches and athletes that create such an awesome community. Crossfit austin is the reason I drive 20 min out of my way to get a workout in when there is multiple boxes within 5 min of where I live.
Current Training Goals/PRs?
My Training goals starting in January will be to become a more well rounded athlete. I plan to implement all the aspects of programming that CFA has to offer. I will be making some time to get my wods in, making time to hangout with coach Dylan to work on my barbell movements, and making time for some endurance with coach Jesse so that I can I work on my weakness I have with running!
What advice do you have for folks just starting out in CrossFit?
Have patience! Crossfit is not something that you become good at overnight and even when you do think you got it down it always sneaks up on you and makes sure you know that there is ALWAYS something to learn and to get better at. Check your ego at the door and everything will come with hard work and time!
What is your cheat meal go to?
Margaritas and chips and salsa aka Mexican food!
How do you use your fitness outside of the gym?
Investing in my self with my commitment to fitness allows me to invest in everyone else around me. Whether it be in my personal life, at work, or even just making time to hangout with my furry friends you may often see sitting in my car!
Tell us about a moment you felt most proud of yourself during a workout.
I feel proud of myself every single time I finish a wod. Every workout we do presents itself with it’s own challenge and the feeling of adrenaline rushing through you when you realize you did something you may or may not have known your body was capable of doing is unlike any other.
If you could create a WOD and name it for yourself, what would it be?
‘Alyson’
20 min AMRAP
12 DL
12 hang cleans
12 front squat
12 push press
12 back squat
What are your hobbies, interests and/or talents outside of CrossFit?
I love to travel, be out doors, hang out with my pups, and grab a good margarita now and then!
Tell us something we don’t know about you…
I sell personal lines insurance (home,auto,umbrella, motorcycle, etc)! Little did you guys know I am probably the coolest insurance agent you know.
Leave the fine folks of CrossFit Austin with some parting words…
You guys are all so awesome. I am very fortunate to be able to workout among all of you and be apart of the CFA community!
