Member of the Month

CrossFit Midtown is very excited to announce our 2026 April Member of the Month, Donají Carrillo Castro! Dona has been a member since November 2023. She has hit huge PRs, made great friends, and become a staple in the 7:00 pm class! Read on to learn more about Dona and her CrossFit journey. Thank you for being such an outstanding member of the CFM community!

Name: Donají Carrillo Castro
Nickname: Donna or Dona
Age: why?
Hometown: Toluca, Mexico State, Mexico

How did you get exposed to CrossFit?
A friend who was into CrossFit invited me to the Open announcement for 17.4 in Mexico City—Brooke Wells and Brenda Castro. It was packed and I didn’t make it inside, but he did. I still have a video he shared with me. Months later, I joined him for a class and stuck with it until my shoulder needed a break from all the fun.

What brought you to CrossFit Midtown?
I actually met a former CrossFit Midtown athlete that just moved to Los Angeles and joined the gym where I was doing weightlifting. I told him I was moving to Atlanta for work and asked if he knew a place where I could keep lifting. He recommended CrossFit Midtown… and then it only took me a few years to actually show up. No rush, right?

What was your very first day at CrossFit Midtown like?
It wasn’t as intimidating as I had built up in my head. Coach Cam was so friendly and welcoming that signing up was easy (although I’ve made my decision ahead of coming) He is so nice at Foundations that I told him he should start a Foundations 2.0 class when I graduated from it.

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)?
I definitely didn’t expect my upper body strength to improve the way it has. I’ve always been active and liked lifting, but the pull-up program here works fast. I still have a lot to improve, but getting strict pull-ups feels like a major milestone—especially as a woman.

What I really didn’t expect, though, was the community. I didn’t think I’d make such good friends or be this close to such a strong group of inspiring women. (The guys are good too, don’t get me wrong.) There’s something special about being surrounded by women who push you, support each other, and somehow make you want to do better.

Tell us some of your recent accomplishments. What goals do you have for 2022!?
Lately, my biggest accomplishment has honestly just been showing up consistently. I’ve learned that progress is definitely not a straight line—some days you feel great, some days you question all your life choices in the middle of the workout.

My main goal is to keep showing up, keep improving little by little, and most importantly, keep enjoying the challenge (even when it’s humbling). And maybe one day I will finally get a BMU.

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?
I really like Saturday partner WODs—especially when there’s a heavy barbell involved and the weight goes up. There’s something about sharing the suffering that makes it more fun… or at least more bearable.

What is your favorite dessert or “treat yourself” meal?

I like kettle cooked potato chips with hot sauce. It is a popular street snack from back home and a little way to stay connected with my roots/to not miss my family as much.

Favorite CrossFit Midtown moment (doesn’t have to be during a class, just any favorite moment at CFM)?
I first thought maxing out on Tuesday’s at 7pm. I noticed it has happened often on a Tuesday and most of these times Hailey was coaching or pushing everyone. Then, I thought most of the time CFM is my favorite moment of the day. The routine of showing up and seeing how we can support each other without doing more than showing up. It’s cool how someone can be inspiring someone else without even realizing it. And training with Alex (or the girls) definitely makes everything more fun and more rewarding. Having someone by your side through the workouts (and the suffering) makes a big difference.

Hobbies, Talents and or Interests Outside of CrossFit:

Outside the gym, I love spending time with friends and family, traveling, and hanging out with Rizzo, a bernedoodle girly that took all the sassiness for herself.

I also enjoy watching movies (especially the Oscar nominees) or TV shows, watching F1 races, and reading. I am also trying to learn a bit of astrology, but it does take time. All of it when I am not working, which, lately, has kept me pretty busy.

Advice for new CrossFitters:
Don’t overthink it; just show up, listen to the great coaches we have, and use sugar WOD (it really helps to measure and for accountability).

Be kind and patient with yourself, celebrate the small wins if it makes you feel better, and something people tell me often that I forget – don’t compare your chapter one to someone else’s chapter twenty.

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!

CrossFit Midtown is very excited to announce our 2026 February Member of the Month, Hunter! Hunter has been a member since May 2024. He has hit huge PRs, made great friends, and become a staple in the 5:00 pm class! Read on to learn more about Hunter and his CrossFit journey. Thank you for being such an outstanding member of the CFM community!

Name: Hunter Abel
Nickname: Hunt
Age: 31
Hometown: Owensboro, Kentucky

How did you get exposed to CrossFit?
I just signed up one day, didn’t know a single person at the gym

What brought you to CrossFit Midtown?
I wasn’t really keeping a routine when just trying to go to the gym myself, and I wanted to get more comfortable with overall fitness training. 

What was your very first day at CrossFit Midtown like?
Scary as hell. Coach Mike was this big, intimidating person that did my first drop-in class (and foundational classes later on). I didn’t even finish the workout on the first day and nearly passed out on the floor. I remember Coach Mike walked away and another coach (Cam) came over to ask if I needed water. So happy I stuck with it though! 🙂

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)?
So many positive changes! I’ve noticed a significant change in my body (every day is leg and shoulder day), and I have truly connected with so many people at the gym, becoming some of my closest friends. I truly don’t think there’s a gym with a closer and more tight-knit community. 

Tell us some of your recent accomplishments. What goals do you have for 2022!?
I just did my first hand stand push up a couple weeks back! And getting heavier weights on the barbell with every class. For 2026, I want to finally get double unders and muscle ups! (no overhead squats though please)

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?
Anything other than overhead squats? I’ve made some significant progress on my rowing speed. Let’s say rowing, bench, pull-ups? Is that too grippy?

What is your favorite dessert or “treat yourself” meal?

Ice cream or doritos (nacho cheese)

Favorite CrossFit Midtown moment (doesn’t have to be during a class, just any favorite moment at CFM)?

The moment “I almost died” when Coach Hailey watched me fail a box jump less than two minutes into the workout

Hobbies, Talents and or Interests Outside of CrossFit:

Biking, hanging with friends (from Crossfit), walkable cities with transit 🙂

Advice for new CrossFitters:
Stick with it! It’s so scary and daunting at first but sticking with it and making new friends creates all the difference in the world!

CrossFit Midtown is very excited to announce our 2026 January Member of the Month, Andy Leverett! Andy has been a member since September 2022. He has hit huge PRs, made great friends, and become a staple in the 6:00 am class! Read on to learn more about Andy and his CrossFit journey. Thank you for being such an outstanding member of the CFM community!

Name: Andrew Leverett
Nickname: Andy
Age: 35
Hometown: Jacksonville, Florida

How did you get exposed to CrossFit?
When I was in college, I knew someone who became a CrossFit coach in Key West. The experience looked both fun and impressive. And over time, I realized that the strongest people I knew were Crossfitters, and that revelation got me to take the plunge for myself.

What brought you to CrossFit Midtown?
Before CrossFit, I had almost exclusively focused on distance running. I wanted to learn how to build my upper body muscles and lift weights safely, which I had no prior training in when I joined CFM. I now have a much more well-rounded body build, and I’ve made noticeable improvements to my standing posture.

What was your very first day at CrossFit Midtown like?
Mike coached my foundation classes, and during the first class, he asked me to do a few toes-to-rings. I had never tried those before. I totally surprised myself when I was able to do it.

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)?
A fellow Crossfitter once told me to “do it for myself.” This may sound like standard advice, but his comment was a very transformative moment for me. I am still in the process of defining and refining what it means to do it for myself. It has been a big and tremendously important difference in my psychology.

Additionally, on that note, the overall environment at CFM has been freeing in a way that I had yet to experience as an adult. It is so nice to be within a culture where people can be themselves, have fun, and not be super corporate all the time. Everyone I have met has been extremely welcoming, respectful, and supportive of each other.

Tell us some of your recent accomplishments. What goals do you have for 2022!?
I recently made a career switch from video production to I.T. and it has been a transitional period for me. I am very proud of myself for going beyond just maintaining my fitness but also continuing to make new P.R.s.

I have made a lot of progress over the years. It feels surreal to now knock out 70 pull-ups in a morning and then go about the day as normal. I am fortunate that my body can keep up with my ambition. P.S. Shout out to the 6 a.m. crew!

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?
I really like doing cleans.

My workout would be 4 sets of 500m rowing machine + 15 cleans + 40 double-unders for time with 90 seconds of rest in between sets.

What is your favorite dessert or “treat yourself” meal?

I devour pizza like no one’s business.

Favorite CrossFit Midtown moment (doesn’t have to be during a class, just any favorite moment at CFM)?
There are so many I could mention, for example, 1) the plank kettlebell race I did with my buddy Matt, 2) the entire era of the 6 a.m. class with Kiana, Stasia, and the Thompson Twins, and 3) becoming running buddies with Juana. However, if there was just one moment that really summed it up, it was a random morning during a rest between sets. A dance party of sorts broke out on top of the boxes. All I could think was, “Wow, where else can you find something like this happening at 6 a.m. before work?”

Hobbies, Talents and or Interests Outside of CrossFit:

I am doing triathlon training outside Crossfit, which is a great combination for me. I also enjoy Atlanta’s food and wine scene with my wife, Henna. 

Advice for new CrossFitters:
Consistency over perfection. It is critical to take stretching seriously, and I recommend Mike’s yoga classes. If your schedule sometimes gets in the way, 6 a.m. is the way to go. Utilize the coaches’ knowledge to lift with safe and proper form, dropping down weight as much as needed to do it right. Scaling is smart, and everyone universally respects your effort. Have fun, and do your best!

CrossFit Midtown is very excited to announce our December 2025 Member of the Month, Ben Pratt! Ben has been a member since August 2024. He has hit huge PRs, and has become a staple in the 7:00 pm class! Read on to learn more about Ben and his CrossFit journey. Thank you for being such an outstanding member of the CFM community!

Name: Ben Pratt
Age: 39
Hometown: San Antonio, Tx

How did you get exposed to CrossFit?
When I lived in Dallas 2018, there was a CrossFit that I passed every day. I was curious for a long time. I honestly wish I would have started sooner.

What brought you to CrossFit Midtown?
I looked at a few CrossFit gyms. I reviewed their websites and read the coach’s bios. Everyone seemed nice, so I ultimately made a gut decision on CFM.

What was your very first day at CrossFit Midtown like?
For someone that had zero background in exercise, I was intimidated on the first day. But the coach explained everything to me, and helped work through the movements.

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)?
I would say community. Everyone I have encountered here at CFM have been incredibly nice and supportive. Everyone is simply trying to be better, and I am all for it.

Tell us some of your recent accomplishments. What goals do you have for 2022!?
I recently got my first kipping pullup. The following week, I completed an entire workout with multiple kipping pullups. I plan to continue to make improvements in upper body movements, get all my barbell movements to the 100# range, and work on stamina.

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?
Miami Rain. A workout that includes 1) 500 m run, 2) burpee into a T2R sounds fun, and 3) some type of barbell movement.

What is your favorite dessert or “treat yourself” meal?

My cheat meal is hands down Shake Shack. I love their burgers and cheese fries.

Favorite CrossFit Midtown moment (doesn’t have to be during a class, just any favorite moment at CFM)?
There are many, but I would say completing the Changemaker challenge was a fun one. It was awesome to see all the gyms come together in support of each other. However, I will maintain my stance that I could not move the sled due to the ground surface, not me. 🙂

Hobbies, Talents and or Interests Outside of CrossFit:

I’m super interested in international topics. I love to travel in my personal time. I have been to around 30 countries across 5 continents. I’m always planning my next big adventure.

Advice for new CrossFitters:
The WODs can sometime be intimidating, especially when the reps are high count and repetitive. So, my advice would be to plan a pace that works for you, think about how you want to break up reps and keep a mind set of “chip away at it.” Be humble in that process, too.

CrossFit Midtown is very excited to announce our October 2022 Member of the Month, Jon Grim! He has been a member since June 2021 and has hit huge PRs, made incredible friends, and is an avid open-gym goer! Read on to learn more about Jon and his CrossFit journey. Thank you for being such an outstanding member of the CFM community!

Name: Jonathan Grim
Nickname: Jon
Age: 34
Hometown: Canton, Ga

How did you get exposed to CrossFit?
I remember seeing clips of the CrossFit Games when I was in college (2012ish). The events looked nuts, and the athletes looked super human to me (let’s be honest, they both still do). I didn’t know where you went to get that kind of training, and in any event I was pretty happy with my focus on powerlifting at the time, so I didn’t investigate it much.

What brought you to CrossFit Midtown?
I’d hit a fitness and mental slump. I needed to shake up things and find some new challenges. When I thought about what kind of shape I wanted to be in, CrossFit seemed like it might be a good choice. I searched for local CrossFit gyms and chose CFM because it looked like an established gym with a good reputation.

What was your very first day at CrossFit Midtown like?
I was super nervous and didn’t really know what to expect. Coming in, I thought I was in decent shape, but that foundations test left me light-headed and gassed. Still, I was hooked from day one. The challenge and atmosphere was too exciting.

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)?

I’m a remote worker, so the gym is my chance to interact with others outside of a computer screen most days. That real life connection and the class experience has become really important to me, and has drastically helped improve my mental well being. We have great people at our gym, and I’m really thankful for everyone.

I’ve also got a renewed sense of confidence. Seeing that I’m capable of taking on hard physical challenges and getting life changing results has inspired me to try the same in other areas of my life. For instance, I’ve always had an interest in entrepreneurship and now I’m finally taking steps to make that a reality.

Tell us some of your recent accomplishments. What goals do you have for 2022!?
One of the things I’m most proud of is the progress I’m making with the Olympic lifts. I started going to the barbell class over the summer to get extra help, and David has been a great coach. My form on both the clean and snatch feels so much better, and I have tons more confidence walking up to the bar.

For the rest of 2022, I want to work on getting ready for the next open. My goal is to do the RX versions this time, and one area I know I consistently struggle with is my endurance, so I’m planning on working on that. Me and the rower are about to become good friends.

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?

I’m a fan of EMOM and Tabata workouts. I like that regular cadence and the challenge of if you can match what you did last round, and I think the format is great when you need to create a workout while out travelling or just want to work on some skills. I’m also weirdly into wall walks and being upside down.

EMOM 5 Rounds
Minute 1: Wall Walks
Minute 2: Weighted lunges
Minute 3: Pull-ups
Minute 4: Row

What is your favorite dessert or “treat yourself” meal

Hot wings. J.R. Crickets 20 piece, hot, with extra blue cheese and fries. Tropicalia to drink.

Favorite CrossFit Midtown moment (doesn’t have to be during a class, just any favorite moment at CFM)?
I loved our scaled competition: CFM Rise Up. I partnered with Jason and got to know him that day (he’s awesome and an inspiration!). I started super nervous, hit some PRs in the second workout, and then completely fell apart at the end of the last workout and Jason saved my ass. The atmosphere all day was great, and it was so much fun watching everyone. 10/10.

Hobbies, Talents and or Interests? What does a day in the life of you look like outside of being a Crossfitter?

Travelling, eating, watching sports (mostly soccer), making software. I miss playing sports and want to play them more – if you play a sport and want an extra hit me up!

Advice for new CrossFitters

Keep coming back – just showing up is an achievement. Don’t worry about the score – you’re here to compete with yourself and that’s what matters. Good diet and good sleep are game changers.

CrossFit Midtown is very excited to announce our September Member of the Month, Raymond Tran! He has been a member for over a year and has made some major gains and PR’s, some awesome friends, a joy to have in class, a founding member of the CFM Striking course and has written an awesome article about CFM in the Atlanta Lawyer magazine! Read on to learn more about Raymond and his CrossFit journey. Thank you for being such an outstanding member of the CFM community!

Name: Raymond Tran
Nickname: “Ray”
Age: 29
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA

How long have you been at CFM and what got you started?
12 months.

I used to have abs. Then law school happened (physical activity level dropped, bad eating habits creeped in). I am disciplined, but dropped my health from my priority list. By the time I took the bar exam, I had a lot more jiggle and a lot less energy than I used to, and resolved to prioritize my health and fitness. Immediately after the bar exam (I binge watched all 7 seasons of Game of Thrones in 4 days — but then immediately after that), I emailed CFM to get started.

What was your very first day at CrossFit Midtown like?
Full of “Why am I doing this to myself?”

Mike was leading me through foundations. I remember how enthusiastic he was when I applied his correction to a pushup and heard his “this is how this will change your life” explanation. If I was going to do this (CrossFit) to myself, I wanted to do it under the guidance of people who really cared about what they did and got excited about this type of progress.

Mike also suggested that I take at least 1 yoga class a week. I nodded politely, but in my mind thought: “I’m flexible enough…I did not sign up for no ‘ohm’ or ‘breath of fire’…”. I then accidentally stumbled into my first CFM Yoga class with Monica because I wanted to stretch after the Saturday class but had no polite way of saying “I’m just here to stretch”.

Best accidental stumble at CFM ever. Monica leads a quality, no-nonsense yoga class that has become a part of my weekly workout. I’ve also enjoyed it when the other yoga instructors subbed the Saturday recovery class. I would encourage anyone who is adverse to the “ohm” and “breath of fire” stuff to try out the CFM yoga classes — even if you can’t commit to them regularly, it will contribute to your movement/mobility/warmup toolbox.

Tell us some of your recent accomplishments. What goals do you have for 2019!?
CrossFit – in January I set a goal to pull my chest up to the bar (without a box) for workouts within three months. It took about 7 months…but now I no longer need to set up a BBAP station (provided I can scale to a kipping or half-rep). I also aimed to add a “4th day” at CFM – which was officially “accomplished” when CFM started the Knuckle-Up Club.

Not CrossFit – Professionally, I’m wrapping up my first full year of practice as an attorney (my hours are RX+++). Personally, I’m actually eating better and less stressed than I was as a law student, and am on track to save enough to purchase my first house.

What is one or two of your most frequently used GIFs?

What changes have you seen in your overall health and fitness level since starting CrossFit?
In addition to feeling stronger (i.e., carrying more grocery bags across greater distances), I feel more energetic (contrary to what I would expect after a workout). I am also making small changes to my daily habits that are paying off: since I mostly do AM classes, I have to have enough sleep; I need to eat right to have the energy to complete a workout and to recover; I say no to junk calories that I just spent a tough morning burning. I’m hoping to put greater focus on building better eating habits (especially since I wasn’t able to participate in the nutrition challenge). I’ve “lost” some flexibility, but the increase in control from a stronger core has increased my range of motion.

What kind of changes have you experienced since starting CrossFit that were completely unexpected (ie. new friends, “family”, the community, more self confidence, etc)?
I did not expect to actually like CrossFit. I signed up because it was an efficient way to fit exercise with a demanding schedule. But actually enjoying it really crept up on me. It is now a physical manifestation of how I frame the rest of my day (e.g., “If you can finish these box jumps, you can close that deal.”). I’m also thrilled that we started a striking class (the Knuckle Up Club), which I enter into my calendar as “Cheap Therapy”.

Adding to the fun factor: I have a habit of imagining what people’s lives are like outside of my interaction with them. I do a lot of imagining of what our members’ storyline would be if CFM was its own reality show…especially the people I kind of never spoken to or formally met, but just “always see at the gym” because my only insight into their life is the WOD and QOD. This is totally TMI, but now you know what I’m thinking whenever I’m blankly staring you or giggling to myself.

Initially, I thought CFM would be a great place to get away from other lawyers (it’s not). The AM crew can form its own law firm…and one of my regular Saturday CFM workout buddies recently joined my firm. So Ryan Newbrough, if you’re reading this…work is no reason to stop working out. And to Cary Burke – we have a fantastic paternity leave policy should you ever look to lateral.

Favorite WOD
I really liked the Antman-Spiderman WOD. And that one WOD that one Sunday where we built a “wall” out of the boxes to jump over.

Damon also did a “panic” drill (not sure what it was actually called — but it’s the one that he says might cause an anxiety attack) that was a fun calorie burner.

What is 1 or 2 of your best or favorite memories at CFM?
The reaction of the 6 AM class to my response to the QOD (by Travis) asking about a “near death experience” (you had to be there). And in this same vein, almost all of Kara Noone’s “Noone” answers to QOD.

You can go to any concert of any artist (dead or alive) which one would you go to?
Musical: So I don’t like attending music performances where the crowd sings along with the artist (I paid to hear the artist sing) — but also am that guy who sings along as if I was the artist (even if I don’t know the song…I just start making up lyrics and noise)…which is a long way of saying I don’t usually have a good time at concerts.

Non-musical: I wish I had a chance to watch Joan Rivers perform live.

Hobbies, Talents and or Interests? What does a day in the life of Raymond look like outside of being a stud crossfitter?
My life revolves mostly around my work and my dog (a 4 year old Shiba Inu), so if I’m not in the office (or at the gym), I’m probably at the park or some dog friendly trail I found on google.

I also do this thing where I like trying out foods for the purpose of sharing it with others. I’ll go out of my way to try “whipped honey with espresso beans” to see if i like it, and if I do, I have to share it with people. If I “discover” a restaurant, I don’t want you to just go check it out — I want to take you there, order my favorite things, and share them with you. This makes me a fun friend.

I also plan trip-itineraries for people/companies on the side. Prior to transitioning to a legal career, I worked in consulting overseas and worked on projects that took me to some interesting places. If you ever need to know someone who knows someone in places like Anse Source d’Argent, Port Mathurin, Port Louis, or Coloane — I’m your guy.

Advice for new CrossFitters
Show up. What gets me to the gym is the knowledge that I was going to start my day achieving something most people aren’t able to do. Every second finish a WOD earlier, each time I lift a little bit heavier, and each time I have to face a movement I want to avoid (lately…running), I leave the gym knowing that I showed up on behalf of myself, to make myself a little bit better. The fact that every other member in class with me is also there with a similar goal keeps me accountable and motivated.

CrossFit Midtown is very excited to announce our May Member of the Month, Anne-Marie! She has been a member since 2014, has made some major gains including growing a tiny human, some awesome friends, a joy to have in class, and has been an active person in the CFM community! Read on to learn more about Anne-Marie and her CrossFit journey. Thank you for being such an outstanding member of the CFM community!

Name: Anne-Marie Burke
Nickname: Anne, AM, Annie
Age: 33
Hometown: Marietta, GA

How did you get exposed to CrossFit?
My earliest exposure was an article I read in my mid 20’s about CrossFit and Rhabdo. Safe to say I wasn’t chomping at the bit when Cary Burke asked me to join him when we first started dating.

What brought you to CrossFit Midtown:
In 2014, Cary and I had a what we fondly refer to as “our winter of content.” We put Nutella on Milano cookies and drank craft beers every night. On March 30th he proposed, on April 1st he said “it’s time to work out now”, on April 2nd he signed me up at CFM.

What was your very first day at CrossFit Midtown like?
To be honest, it’s a blur. I recall it was a full class in the old location and there was no such thing as foundations yet. I stood frozen in the front of the class holding a training barbell as I tried to wrap my head around a squat clean. “So you want me to pick up this metal bar very quickly and “squat” down to the ground with it…and not fall? Okay….halp!” My training as a runner wanted to show off and run all the way home. But I didn’t and I remember beaming as we drove home because I might have done 1 air squat properly.

What kind of changes have you you experienced since starting CrossFit that were completely unexpected?
Oh my goodness, so many! Working out is now a calming and centering force in my life rather than a chore for weight control. I cannot believe I wake up at 5:30 to work out at 6 am but it’s the highlight of my day. Doesn’t hurt that the morning crew is 🔥. It’s a marvelous feeling having the hardest part of my day over by 7 am. In terms of CFM overall, the most surprising benefit is that I’m constantly around people who inspire, support, and challenge me.

Tell us some of your recent accomplishments. What goals do you have for 2019!?
Well we’re having a baby in October! So I’d like to:
1) Maintain my overall wellness to be the best mom I can be to this little one. Staying consistent at CFM is a big part of that.
2) Avoid an Episiotomy
3) Get my first muscle up (ha, jk)

What does your frequently used emoji tab look like?

What is your favorite workout and if you could make up your own workout what would it be?
I love Murph. It combines my favorite movements: running, pull-ups, and push ups. I think if we added some ab work, it would be a perfect work out.

What is your favorite cheat food/meal?
Just one?!? I think my go-to is a buffalo chicken sandwich with tots and ranch. I generally can’t resist chocolate cake and ice cream these days either…

Favorite CrossFit Midtown moment
Besides every CFM Holiday party…

1) I Rx’d a partner WOD with Sarah McColley about 9 months to a year after starting and remember feeling like “whoa I just did something I never thought I was capable of.”
2) This last year, I PR’d my power snatch at Graveyard Games with my partner, Elana, in the last 30 seconds of the event. I’ll never forget everyone cheering as I hit it after failing a couple of times.

Hobbies, Talents and or Interests Outside of CrossFit:
You can generally find me reading a book, talking with people on how to connect their finances with their values, or blogging for some publications in my graduate school program.

Advice for new CrossFitters
1) Seek out help from the coaches. They’re all technically sound. Every time I’ve asked for help I’ve kicked myself for not doing it sooner.

2) If you’re afraid you’ll look stupid doing a movement, that’s probably what you need to work on the most. We did a pistol workout last week and I fell on 95% of them (and I was only going to a 12″ target). But those 5% I did properly were informative and, even, thrilling.

CrossFit Midtown is very excited to announce our January Member of the Month, Hailey Plemons! Hailey has been a member for a little over 1 year, has seen dem gains, made some awesome friends, and competed at Graveyard Games 2018! Read on to learn more about Hailey and her CrossFit journey. Thank you for being such an outstanding member of the CFM community!

Name: Hailey Plemons
Nickname: My friends and family call me Hails
Age: 24
Hometown: Columbus, Georgia

How did you get exposed to CrossFit?
After years of soccer, I knew I performed best in a team environment, so I was looking for a gym that offered group classes. I reached out to a family friend that was nine years deep in Crossfit and she recommended I give it a shot.

What brought you to CrossFit Midtown:
The same family friend looked at the programming in the gyms around Atlanta and she really liked what CFM offered.

What was your very first day at CrossFit Midtown like?
I remember getting through the warm-up and Mike saying, “Okay so for the workout we will do..” and panicking internally because I was pretty tired from the warm up. I liked CFM pretty instantly.

What kind of changes have you you experienced since starting CrossFit that were completely unexpected?
One of my favorite changes has been my perspective. Before I joined CFM, I would have to spend most of my day convincing myself to workout or run. Now I wake up and one of the first things I do is check the blog to see what I get to do that day. Another unexpected plus has been all the incredible people I’ve met along the way.

Tell us some of your recent accomplishments. What goals do you have for 2019!?
I’ve started to venture out of my comfort zone when it comes to choosing weights for the workouts. AKA Pietsch sees what weight I choose and tells me to try again. But I appreciate that he believes in me (after the workout is over) 🙂
My goals for 2019 are to master DU, TTB, and kipping pull ups

5 Rope Climbs 15 Burpees over Erg 25 Cal Row For Time.
Who wins? You or your sister ;)?
I read this to her and she said, “Don’t lie to them Hails, it’s definitely me.” In which case, we can settle this at the gym.

What is your favorite workout and if you could make up your own workout what would it be?
I enjoy anything with the barbell. Overhead squats are my favorite, so Nancy.
If I had to make one up it would probably have some overhead squats, rope climbs, and burpees. I don’t like burpees at all but they make you suffer a little and it feels good after.

Favorite CrossFit Midtown moment
There was a class where Carey Bald approached me and said, “You’re stronger than you think you are. You’re going to partner with me today and we’re going to see what you’re made of.” She probably doesn’t realize how much this meant to me, but it was pretty huge for my confidence. Carey has since moved to Miami, but her voice is always haunting me telling me to go heavier.

Hobbies, Talents and or Interests Outside of CrossFit:
Traveling, playing soccer, hiking, hanging out with friends and my dog.

Advice for new CrossFitters
If you’re anything like me, you’ll be terrified walking in the first few times. Just keep going back until you love it. The rewards outweigh all the costs.