I am extremely happy with not only my selection but every single coaches suggestion for our August Athlete of the Month. Dawn is so very deserving of this acknowledgement. If you haven’t met Dawn yet, you can find her in most 7pm classes (if she doesn’t get to an earlier evening class once in a while). She is definitely one of the most consistent members over the past couple years. She is generally quiet until you introduce and get to talking. She might surprise you by lapping you in a workout with burpees and DB snatches. She is fast! When you read her Q&A, you will learn more about her but I do want to touch on a couple things. I appreciate the chance she took on our gym coming from little athletic background. We enjoy training people like Dawn so much because these are the individuals who really get outside their comfortable zone and work hard. The other thing is I think I can eat pizza most days too. Keep up your consistent habits, continue to work at the things that challenge you and thank you for trusting in our team. Dawn also boxes with coach Ryan. She is definitely unassuming. I am proud to be one of your coaches, Dawn.
Written By: Coach Rob Moloney
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Q&A
Why did you start functional fitness cross-training?
My friend Stephanie was already a member and brought me as a guest. I felt I could get better results here than were I was going… and I was right!
What’s your background? (Athletic)
I don’t have one – Never played a sport… but apparently, I am innately athletic. I did play “kick the can” growing up, does that count?
How long have you been a member and how long have you been doing functional fitness?
I’ve been a member for almost 3 years.
What is your favorite thing about the gym?Socially the gym is very welcoming and made me feel very comfortable. I was intimidated at first, I did not know the lingo or the equipment. But now I am highly educated in all these area’s and I’m grateful to Island Park Fitness and all the new friends I’ve made.
What is the biggest challenge you have overcome since joining the gym?
Confidence and believing in myself. I didn’t have all that before I got here. I never got picked for anything. I have really worked hard on myself. I’m beyond thankful.
What is your favorite moment at the gym so far?
Partner workouts & the Hero workouts are my favorite and the camaraderie that comes with them .
What’s your favorite “cheat” food?
PIZZA, PIZZA, PIZZA – “The Everything Slice” – from Gino’s
And… it’s not a cheat meal… I can eat that like every other day!
What would you say to someone who is thinking about starting?
Don’t be afraid, just do it! You won’t be disappointed. Trust is the coaching & training, it’s made me a better athlete and a better person all around.
What drives you?
MY BIKE…
Dedication comes easy when you love what you are doing. This keeps me sane as well.
What is your biggest fitness goal right now?Getting better on the rig. I want to get better at kipping. I also need to learn how to pace better.
My long term goal is to keep up my health and keep this going as long as I can. I love IP Fitness.
Thank you for the Honor. I still can’t believe it.