Congratulations Duki on a much deserved Miss February Athlete of the Month honor. I’ve known Duki only in the gym setting for nearly two years now and have had great conversations be it during or after classes. She may very well be the best self managed person to be named athlete of the month. With a solid athletic background and knowing what nutrition is best for her, Duki is a discpline and “thinking” athlete. This is something that is not easy by any means. Understanding and properly navigating your own history, injuries, diet, sleep, recovery, social life, work life and training can be overwhelming and many often ignore pieces of the big puzzle. Duki does a tremendous job to balance everything and with a smile while enjoying it all. One word that really comes to mind when talking about her is ‘respectful’. Yes Duki is smart and a hard working individual but her respect for everyone around her and how she carries herself is a rare find. This is a quality that instantly earns reciprocated respect. Thanks for your daily worth ethic and we’ll see you in class!
Written by: Coach Rob Moloney
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Q&A
Why did you start functional fitness cross-training?
I always enjoyed being active and practiced some form of functional fitness. I was working as a personal trainer when I shared with my good friend who was also a trainer and familiar with cross-training, that for once I would just like for someone else to tell me what my workout is. She said “there’s a crossfit gym opening in the neighborhood, you’re going there tomorrow after work to sign up.” The owner put me through a baseline assessment, I remember thinking this will be light work but instead I got my ass kicked. Humbled and impressed, I asked “where do I sign?”
What’s your background? (Athletic)
In my family everyone was a swimmer, so for as long as I can remember swimming was my sport of choice, I even had the honor of starting my high school’s first swim team. I also ran track and cross country for 2 seasons, if you ever ran a 5K competitively at Van Cortlandt Park you know why it was only 2 seasons.
How long have you been a member and how long have you been doing functional fitness?
I believe this summer will mark my 2 year anniversary at Island Park! During my college years I started training at a local gym where I learned about functional fitness and that has been my go to since.
What is your favorite thing about the gym?
That it exists, haha. The programming is also a big draw for me, it is well thought out and effective. Knowing what the intent of the workout is also helps me to focus on the right things.
What is the biggest challenge you have overcome since joining the gym?
My own head. Since joining IP I’ve had major transitions in my personal and professional life that required a lot of my time and attention. I’ve also had some old injuries flare up that took a few months of scaling back and therapy. Through the support and inclusiveness of the IP community, I was able to see that these are just moments in time and do not define me as an athlete or solidify my fitness abilities. It really helped me to learn to stop feeling bad for myself and just keep moving.
What is your favorite moment at the gym so far?
There are SO many, but a recent favorite was when Jim came in with custom made Oreo cookies for Pav. What was supposed to be a gag gift (because Pav can only eat Oreos during Lent) ended up being a perfectly aligned and much needed laugh for Pav. We laughed, we hugged and shared some Oreo’s. For me crossfit has always been much more than just a place to do fitness, I’ve met some amazing people and made lifelong friends through the community.
What’s your favorite “cheat” food?
I’m always down for a slice of pizza and if I’m really indulging, a diet coke.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about starting?
The wonderful thing about crossfit is that you not only get physically fit, you become mentally fit and acquire a whole tribe of people who will literally spend their time cheering for you to become the best version of yourself.
What drives you?
Me and the healthcare system in America. If I can help it, I hope to never have to be dependent on it.
What is your biggest fitness goal right now?
To move well, stay healthy and get stronger!
My 2 cents:
I’ve been a member of and trained at a couple of Crossfit gyms over the years, IP is the first place that I can say has a good business model, coupled with solid programming, and consistent and professional coaches. That is rare to find. Thank you for taking pride in your business and delivering quality to your members in everything that you do; from small bathroom updates to regularly servicing equipment to planning and preparing for your members each and every day. It does not go unnoticed and I’m sure I speak for many when I say we appreciate it!