June Athlete of the Month || Lauren Rein
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 June Athlete of the Month is Lauren Rein! Lauren joined the CFA family about 10 months ago and quickly made the 5:30 am class her home. Lauren is such a joy to have in class! She has an awesomely influential personality and really knows how to rally the troops. In fact, she has been crowned “Cash Out Queen” of the morning because she encourages her fellow athletes to give it just a little bit more and complete the cash outs with her! She has made some really impressive progress in her time here and is always open to growth. We’ve loved being part of the journey with her and celebrating the wins along the way! Lauren, we are honored to have you as our June Athlete of the Month and as an awesome part of this team. 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:
Lauren
Words to live by?
“Eventually all things fall into place, until then, laugh at the confusion, live for the moments, and know everything happens for a reason”
What is your fitness background?
I competed in synchronized swimming for 13 years, from 8 years old through college. Once my time as a synchro swimmer came to an end I wanted to find something I enjoyed to stay in shape, and found cCossFit!
How long have you been CrossFitting?
Almost 10 months now
Take us back to your first day of CrossFit… How did you feel? How do you compare it to workouts today?
I was so excited to get back into a gym and a routine again after 6 months of gyms being closed from Covid. But I was also super nervous to be somewhere new and not know anyone. I remember struggling with the workout, as I still do more often than not, but there are a lot of movements I can do now that I couldn’t before.
What’s your favorite part of CrossFit Austin?
100% the people! I love the culture at CFA. All of the coaches and members are amazing!
Current Training Goals/PRs?
Consistent pull ups and double unders. Improve my handstand push ups. And as always, lift heavy!!
What advice do you have for folks just starting out in CrossFit?
Don’t be afraid to go at your own pace, scale as needed, and listen to your body. Just show up with a positive attitude and get it done one way or another!
How do you balance staying focused in your training and in your life?
By making Crossfit a priority in my everyday schedule. It’s easy to do when I love coming to the gym as much as I do.
What is your cheat meal go-to?
Pizookies
How do you use your fitness outside of the gym?
I love going on hikes, runs and biking on the weekends. Also, the occasional push up competition with my coworkers & the soccer league I’m a part of with work.
Tell us about a moment you felt most proud of yourself during a workout.
Most recently there was a workout where I was going to do it RX, but then the pull ups seemed impossible at the end of the workout so I was ready to grab a band and scale it. But everyone cheered me on and coached me through it and I was able to finish it RX which I didn’t think I could do. It showed me I’m capable of more than I think sometimes, especially with the awesome support from others 🙂
What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your fitness journey?
Working out used to feel like it was a chore and something I had to do to stay in shape and look good which was always a battle. Luckily since I’ve started crossfit that has changed SO much. I workout now because I love the way I feel after and the people and energy I’m surrounded by.
If you could create a WOD and name it for yourself, what would it be?
It would definitely be a short AMRAP with lots of lifting, especially overhead.
What keeps you going on the days you don’t feel like it?
What keeps me getting up at 5am to workout is knowing I get to see all my gym friends! Also knowing that everyday I get into the gym is another opportunity to improve and work towards my goals.
What are your hobbies, interests and/or talents outside of CrossFit?
Swimming, photography, anything outdoors, yoga, watching live music, and traveling.
Tell us something we don’t know about you…
I grew up celebrating Christmas and Hanukkah with parents of different religious backgrounds which was super cool.
Leave the fine folks of CrossFit Austin with some parting words…
I’m super grateful to be a part of this community and for all the kindness and support from the coaches and members!! Y’all are the best 🙂