CrossFit Midtown is very excited to announce our 2026 March Member of the Month, Carly! Carly has been a member since June 2025. She has hit huge PRs, made great friends, and started our weightlifting class! Read on to learn more about Carly and her CrossFit journey. Thank you for being such an outstanding member of the CFM community!
Name: Carly Mackey
Nickname: I don’t have an official nickname, but I have been called variations of Carly over the years – Carl, Carls, Carlisle, Carlton, CMack, etc.
Age: 30
Hometown: Virginia Beach, VA
How did you get exposed to CrossFit?
I’ve been aware of CrossFit for years. I have rugby friends who do it, along with a few aunts, uncles, and cousins, so it was always on my radar. I lifted consistently for about 10 years, mostly for soccer and rugby, but when COVID hit, I stopped lifting and shifted into running. For about five years I focused on training for 10Ks, 10-milers, and half marathons. While I’m proud of that, I never loved long-distance running, and I really missed lifting. CrossFit felt like a perfect fit for my background and skillset, so I started researching gyms in my area and that’s how I found CFM.
What brought you to CrossFit Midtown?
I had been interested in CrossFit for years, but I was always a little intimidated to try it. After my dad passed away unexpectedly in May 2025, I knew I needed something positive to pour my energy into, that would keep me active, focused, and moving forward. Less than a month later, I found CrossFit Midtown just five minutes from my house, and it felt like the right time to finally take the leap.
What was your very first day at CrossFit Midtown like?
I was definitely a little nervous walking in, but even more excited. Apparently I didn’t read Mike’s email closely enough because I couldn’t figure out where to park, which made me a little late to my very first session…not exactly how I wanted to start day one! I was pretty embarrassed, but once I got inside, that feeling disappeared quickly.
I immediately knew I was going to love it. I’ve always preferred a smaller, more intimate gym setting, and the CFM aesthetic was exactly my vibe. I especially loved and was inspired seeing strong women doing things I’d never been able to do (ahem… pull-ups). I left feeling motivated, challenged, and excited to come back.
What kind of changes have you you experienced since starting CrossFit that were completely unexpected (ie. new friends, “family”, the community, more self confidence, etc)?
The biggest unexpected change has been the sense of community. I joined CrossFit thinking I just needed to workout and keep myself busy and active, but the friendships and support have meant more than I anticipated. There’s something really special about struggling through a tough workout together and celebrating each other’s wins, big or small.
I’ve also gained a lot of confidence. Doing things I once thought were “not for me” has changed the way I see myself, and I know more than ever that I can do hard things.
Tell us some of your recent accomplishments. What goals do you have for 2022!?
I recently completed my first CrossFit Open workout – 26.1! I originally wasn’t planning to attempt it RX, but some of the girls encouraged me to go for it. I’m so glad they did because I ended up doing way better than I expected, which felt amazing.
As for my goals this year, I really want to get my first pull-up and finally nail my double-unders. I’m ready to keep pushing myself and see what else I’m capable of!
What does your frequently used emoji tab look like? (screen shot and send it!)
What is your favorite workout and if you could make up your own workout what would it be?
So far, my favorite workout was one we did last week – rowing and squats!
3 Rounds
48 cal row
21-15-9 squats (105#)
What is your favorite dessert or “treat yourself” meal?
I do not have a huge sweet tooth, but my favorite desserts are cheesecake and ice cream!
Favorite CrossFit Midtown moment (doesn’t have to be during a class, just any favorite moment at CFM)?
I loved the Galentines partner workout and dinner with the women of the gym!
Hobbies, Talents and or Interests Outside of CrossFit:
I am an avid knitter and bread baker! I also love reading, cooking, watching TV, going to the movies, snuggling with my three cats, and spending time with my boyfriend, friends, and family!
Advice for new CrossFitters:
Anyone can do CrossFit! Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to scale! You will see improvements in your body, fitness, strength SO quickly!