Athlete Spotlight – Erika S

This week we are showcasing one of the amazing members of the StoneAgeFuel family. Each one of our members has a unique story to tell that we love to hear and think you will too!

Eriks S.

Hometown
Loon Lake, Washington is the closest recollection throughout my childhood because it was where my grandparents lived. I grew up in a military family and we moved all through my childhood, even out of the country to Japan for 7 years. My dad retired in 93 in Fallon, Nevada where I attended high school, & soon after, attended the University of Nevada.

Age
35

When did you first start CrossFitting?
StoneAgeFuel was my first.

When did you first start training at StoneAgeFuel?
October of 2013 slightly more than a year ago.

Favorite workout/movement?
Every Olympic style movement or anything involving weights.

Least favorite workout/movement?
Body weight sled pulls…I know it contradicts the previous statement regarding “anything” weight related.

Tell us about your sports/fitness background.
I’ve enjoyed sports since I was a kid. For me, I just loved to be on the move & either be the fastest or strongest at whatever I played. I mostly played soccer all the way into my college years, but other team sports like softball, basketball, and even Roller Derby! I grew up with karate, and even trained in submission/takedown type grappling for cage fighting. In high school I came across Olympic style weightlifting, and it took me to competing in the Junior Olympics when I was 17. I’ve belonged to many different gyms here & there, & always lost interest. I even became a Spin instructor for a short time, but never felt comfortable with where I was. I’m happiest outdoors so skiing/snowboarding and hiking come in good handy living in the Reno/Tahoe area.

How did you first get exposed to CrossFit at StoneAgeFuel? Take us back to your first workout… what was it, and how did it feel?
My first CrossFit exposure at StoneAgeFuel was driving past a sign on the side of the road & walking in the front door. My first workout.. I’m sure I died. I couldn’t breathe & was so unbelievably sore the rest of the week. I must’ve enjoyed it so much that I signed up that day & kept coming back for more everyday thereafter.

What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health and fitness since starting at StoneAgeFuel? (before/after)
I still struggle with my size, and shape everyday, but can now see a gradual change with muscles growing in all the right places. My nutrition is something that I’m learning step by step, but I’m making fewer bad choices, & beginning to understand why the good is so much better. I’m enjoying cooking, & becoming a lot more creative with it.
My strength is improving everyday, & that makes me happiest!! Strength is absolutely beautiful to me.

What changes in your life have you experienced from StoneAgeFuel that were totally unexpected?
After having shoulder surgery in 2013, I really never expected much. However, with the help of the coaches and their willingness to help each individual on a personal level, I’m at my strongest I’ve ever been to date. I never thought I could hang from a bar, do a handstand, and in no way ever perform an Olympic lift correctly, again. I was totally wrong. I’d even go as far as saying that my shoulder is now practically bionic!

Please share with us any favorite StoneAgeFuel moments.
I feel like every moment at StoneAge is a favorite. It’s where I make all of my personal records, & the support is second to none. You are family at this place and everyone wants you to succeed. Everyone even enjoys getting together outside of the gym and attending events. I just love that we like each other. My most favorite moment to date is joining the coaching development program to have an opportunity to learn even more about coaching & a possibility to help others in the same way I’ve had the privilege of being coached.

Any advice for people just getting started?
Take it one day at a time. Everyone is different, & has different goals. Some days may seem difficult, & some days you’ll impress even yourself. Your confidence will grow so much stronger, right along with your body.

What are your hobbies, interests and/or talents outside of CrossFit at StoneAgeFuel?
I love 4-wheeling in my jeep on trail runs and rock crawls. Camping outdoors with friends or family. I ride motorcycles & I still love roller derby. Although, my biggest hobby I’d say, is my family!