We are SO proud of Stef, her determination, and dedication. A mom, a teacher, and an undercover superwoman – you can get to know all about her and what makes her great – here:
How long have you been doing CrossFit?
I began CrossFit in January of 2018.
What is your favorite CrossFit workout and/or movement?
I enjoy Turkish get-ups and barbell movements.
What do you love most about CrossFit Virilis and CrossFit, in general?
In general, I love the variance CrossFit provides. I never know what I’m going to do until that day, and it’s never the same. What I love about CrossFit Virilis is that I have found a family! CFV challenges me each day to be a better me.
Name your top five favorite movies.
1. The Fifth Element
2. Lucy
3. Prometheus
4. The Greatest Showmen
5. Avatar
If you could have lunch with anyone in time, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
I know this probably sounds cliche, but it would be Jesus. I never knew my real dad growing up, and my stepdad was an abusive alcoholic. I would love nothing more than to sit in His arms letting His love wash away all the years of hurt.
What is the Stefanie lifestyle like outside of the gym?
I am a 7th grade science teacher, so my life is surrounded by kids! When I’m not a work, I’m at home or running our four little ones around somewhere. I like to bake and watch TV, when time permits.
What makes you the happiest?
I am the happiest when I get to share small moments with my family. Whether that is reading a book with Samuel, baking with Naisa, stealing a nap with Tzidkiya, watching a show with Shalviya or a Bollywood film with Raquel, having a philosophical discussion with Alexis, or laughing hysterically with James. Oh and a clean house, which is rare with all these kiddos!
What’s your favorite restaurant?
Without a question – J Prime!
What is your favorite quote to inspire, motivate, or make you think?
“There is no better than adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss, contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance the next time.” ~Malcolm X
What’s your favorite sport & team?
I love basketball and don’t really have a favorite team per say as much as I have favorite players. I loved the 2012 Boston Celtics! Kevin Garnett is my all-time favorite player!
Can you share about the impact that CFV has had on you both in and out of the gym?
Since joining CFV, I have lost about 17 pounds. This is a combination of nutrition and exercise. Weight has always been an issue for me, because as a child we lived in poverty and day-to-day survival took precedence over proper nutrition or exercise. On top of all this, my stepdad was very cruel about my weight and I carried hurt into adulthood. Every time I walk into the gym, I am surrounded by lovely people who fill my head and heart with words of affirmation and those hurts are mended in every WOD. I am more confident and learning to love myself in spite of my flaws.
Anything else you’d like to add?
I’ve found a family here! Tanya and Jobie are amazing! Supportive and encouraging!!! I love the other members. I still have many I need to get to know, but I’m enjoying the camaraderie no matter the class I attend. I missed that when I left the military and have found it again with CFV. Whether I need to extra push to finish a WOD or a fellow CrossFitter needs it, I know that we will finish together and if that means doing extra push-ups or running a little more so be it because we are better together.