November 2020 Athlete of the Month - Michelle Kromas

”Thanks again for everything you guys do. I know I am not alone when I say the gym is my sanctuary and am eternally grateful for the space, the people, the awesome programming and top notch coaching!”
No, Thank you Michelle. You have been a joy to coach since day one and it’s been a fun 5+ months coaching you during your pregnancy since we returned to in person classes. As you all read her Q&A, those of you who did not already know learn that Michelle battled obesity as a child. She experienced, learned, changed habits, learned, evolved, experienced more, applied knowledge and continuous to grow as a healthy and fit woman. To be honest, I completely forgot that she went through that stage of her life. Her work ethic, energy, selflessness and personality that I witness everyday paints an entirely different picture. I do however know that Kromas uses her past experiences to not only better herself but to positively influences those around her.
It’s been so fun to coach Kromas during her pregnancy. “How are you feeling? What are we doing today? Tell me what you’re thinking. Let me know what you need modifications for?” These are daily questions when I see Michelle come in. She is always prepared and does not even need suggestions half the time. Thankfully, she as had an amazing experience through her pregnancy allowing her to train on a daily basis. I have seen other woman through through the same experience and I have also witness some not be able to train at all during theirs due to so much discomfort and restrictions. The last thing I want to acknowledge is that 8 months into her pregnancy, Michelle posted the top overall time for the 100/70 calorie bike test. When I say top I mean she beat everyone (men and women) with a time of 3:49 for 70 calories. That’s holding a 70 cadence for the average. So blame her if that 70 get bumped up to 75 in the future. Thanks for raising the standard and continuing to enjoy your health and fitness.

Written by: Coach Rob

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Q&A

Why did you start training crossfit?
When I moved to Long Beach, I wanted to meet other individuals with similar interests and thought the gym would be the best place so I started looking into Crossfit. I tried a class at Island Park and besides the awesome programming, the incredibly welcoming community really drew me in.

What’s your background? (Athletic)
Many of you don’t know I struggled with childhood obesity. I spent several years at a weight loss summer camp where I really thrived and enjoyed an active lifestyle as I became introduced to different sports and fitness classes. At that point though, I was often yo-yo dieting and more concerned with aesthetics than overall fitness. In medical school, I decided I needed to put my health first. I became a regular at the gym, started a bootcamp class as well as a girls flag football league. I successfully lost 35 pounds and continued an active lifestyle through which I have become healthier and stronger.

How long have you been a member and how long have you been doing CrossFit?
I joined Island Park Fitness in December 2017, so it has been 3 years (time flies!)

What is your favorite thing about the gym?
The friendships that have come out of it. I feel so fortunate to be part of this community and have met so many wonderful people. I really have enjoyed watching other people reach new milestones and conquer goals/PRs. I also have loved surprising myself with what I am capable of. It really is an exuberant feeling, especially when you have such a supportive group of members and coaches cheering you on along the way. To hear from other people that I have inspired them with my commitment during pregnancy has meant a lot and that is what this community is all about. We all inspire and motivate one another with the guidance and support of incredible coaches. I also love when Dan joins me on weekends, we really enjoy working out together and both value fitness.

What is the biggest challenge you have overcome since joining the gym?
Not comparing myself to others. There are so many incredible athletes of different backgrounds, abilities and strengths at the gym that it can get frustrating to try to keep up and definitely intimidating when you are starting. I stopped comparing my abilities and my times to others and just started focusing on myself and my own strengths and weaknesses (or as Coach Rob always says “staying in my lane”). This has made me such a better overall athlete and has become especially important throughout my pregnancy.

What is your favorite moment at the gym so far?
Coming back to working out at the gym; the energy is exhilarating and I love feeding off of other people in the gym.

What's your favorite "cheat" food?
I don’t indulge often but am definitely a cookie and donut snob. If anyone ever needs a recommendation, come find Murdy or myself (we send each other dessert of the day pics of sweets we want to try!)

What would you say to someone who is thinking about starting?
Don’t hesitate, if there is just a little inkling of interest, go for it and chances are you will be hooked. The coaches are phenomenal and make it so accessible to members of all abilities. The rewards are numerous; besides the physical changes, increased energy, and improved mood, you’ll walk away with great friends.

What drives you?
My two biggest motivators are my mental and physical health. After a hectic day at work dealing with sick patients, I can’t wait to get to the gym, tune everything else out, and challenge myself. Also, as a physician, I am a big believer in preventative medicine and feel so many ailments are avoidable or cured by just taking proper care of our bodies. I can’t wait to share my love of health and fitness with my baby the way I have with Dan.

What is your biggest fitness goal right now?
Right now, I just want to move in the way my body allows me to and is comfortable for my growing belly! I am so grateful for this space and the coaches in keeping me healthy throughout this pregnancy as well as the community for being so supportive. I can’t wait to get back to trying to get upside down, getting perfect push ups, unassisted pulls ups, and stringing together some toes-to-bar.