Alissa shows us strength every day in and out of the gym. She’s a powerhouse, a power mom, and an amazing human. We’re glad to call her a member of our CFV family – and while you’ll see as you read on that she’ll soon be taking the trek to relocate to Kansas City, she’ll always have a home with us. Read all about her fitness, challenges, and triumphs here:
How long have you been doing CrossFit?
I’ve been doing CrossFit as a “drop-in” for just over 2 years, and regularly since September of 2017. I spent a few years before CF long-distance running, obstacle course racing, and then weight-lifting, but eventually fell in love with the intensity and variety CF provides.
What is your favorite CrossFit workout and/or movement?
Crossfit Open 14.3; cleans and running; Hero WODs.
What do you love most about CrossFit Virilis and CrossFit, in general?
CrossFit makes me push myself beyond my own limitations, continuously working on both strengths and weaknesses to be better. It’s the best of all worlds: lifting, high-intensity, endurance, and body awareness.
I was never all that “athletic” and now would consider myself in possibly the best shape of my life, all because I’m doing movements and workouts that are insanely challenging, yet FUN.
CrossFit Virilis has been like a second home for me. Never have I been part of a community of such wonderful people, all there for the same purpose: supporting one another to just be greater, and healthier, than they were yesterday.
Name your favorite: Movie, Book, Song:
Movie: The River Wild
Book: The Alchemist — Paulo Coelho
Song: Hold On — Alabama Shakes
If you could have lunch with anyone in time, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
My grandpa. He passed away 10 years ago… and was such a gentle, simple, funny soul who always had the right things to say or do for others. I’ll never forget his selfless, hard-working, humble heart.
What is the Alissa lifestyle like outside of the gym?
Much of my identity is MOM and NURSE and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I currently work as a nurse practitioner in a pain management clinic. I spend my free time (outside the gym) with my kids– ages 7 and 9, baking cookies, cooking, or catching a movie.
What makes you the happiest?
Spending precious quality time with people I love and care about.
My kids’ smiling faces.
New gym clothes.
Donuts.
What’s your favorite restaurant?
Anywhere with a good brunch menu: pancakes, bacon, mimosas…
What is your favorite quote to inspire, motivate, or make you think?
“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” -Anais Nin
What’s your favorite sport & team?
Olympic beach volleyball and swimming … I clearly do not follow sports, so every 4 years is plenty.
Can you share about the impact that CFV has had on you both in and out of the gym?
I’ve been through some hard shit and CrossFit has been my outlet, my THERAPY, my saving grace. The literal blood (ripped hands/ box jump fails, anyone?), sweat and tears (screw you, rowing and double unders) with each grueling workout give me strength and motivation to get through those tough times outside the gym, as well.
“Cherry picking workouts doesn’t work” applies to life lessons, too!
Anything else you’d like to add?
This past year and all the many hours spent at CFV have made me a better athlete and an even better friend. It may be impossible finding a new gym-home equal to that of CFV as I relocate to Kansas City next month. All of the members at Virilis, my dear friends, and especially Tanya and Jobie, will be dearly missed. ❤