I don’t think Miss January 2022 needs much of an introduction but I’m going to share my thoughts and appreciation for our honoree. Margo has one of the biggest personalities that has ever stepped foot in our gym. She also has one of the biggest hearts and is an extremely driven woman. Margo and Joey are currently more than half way through a ‘Hard 75’. Among other things, every single day for 75 straight is spent keeping a strict diet of choice, no alcohol as well as an indoor and outdoor workout or 45 minutes plus. Great habits are formed this way and Margo is always up for a challenge. If you’ve seen her on the machines during open gym in the past, she was tackling a Concept 2 challenge and working on her engine at the same time. Some of you may know but Margo saw me painting the red wall where the photos are and asked if she could paint (because she enjoys it.) I politely said of course. She then enthusiastically volunteered to paint the bathrooms when I said that was next on my list. That is something good people do. She then shared her craft while bringing in the signs hung in the bathroom. I have yet to even mention how much of a pleasure and joy it is to coach Margo. She comes super pumped to be in the gym everyday and has improved a ton since joining IP Fitness. It’s great to watch the progress with someone’s barbell work and I was thrilled for her when she got her first (second and third) unassisted pull-ups last week. The hard work and consistency is certainly coming to fruition. Reading this and the Q&A is barely scratching the surface on getting to know Margo. If you have yet to talk to her, introduce yourself. You may have some things in common, like her love for live music (mostly punk rock) or her love for tacos and tequila (me too.) Margo, keep the Hard 75 going strong! you look great and I look forward to witnessing you achieve more goals.
Written By: Coach Rob Moloney
Q&A
Why did you start functional fitness cross-training?
I started “crossfit” RELUCTANTLY in November of 2014. Joey had started a few months prior and I thought it was just another fad workout trend. After he went for the first time, he was totally hooked and wouldn’t stop talking about it so I did a little re-con mission. I secretly went to the same gym as him for a week just at different times so he wouldn’t find out. I really wanted to hate it… well, after the first week, not only had i drank the cool-aid, but it completely took over my life.
What’s your background? (Athletic)
I never had time for organized sports when I was young. I always had a full time job and was a hardcore nerd that really enjoyed reading and homework. But, as an adult I realized that I loved outdoor activities and adventures. I also played Roller Derby through my 20s and really like hiking.
How long have you been a member and how long have you been doing functional fitness?
I have been a member of IP fitness since the summer of 2021 so I guess you can call me a “Covid Baby”. I joined when my original gym closed and I was totally heart broken. At first I thought that IP fitness would end up being my “Rebound Gym”… lol… but after my first or second class I knew i found a new HOME.
What is your favorite thing about the gym?
I have 2 favorite things about the gym… The first is the programming. I think it is so well balanced, consistent and smart. I have made improvements in both technique and ability that seam to come very organically. I think that is a direct result of thoughtful “Long-haul” programming. The second, is obviously the staff and members. Being the “new kid” is always a challenge but I never felt like that at IPfitness. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly and totally receptive to my sense of humor and immaturity level. It truly makes working out the best part of my day!
What is the biggest challenge you have overcome since joining the gym?
My schedule was the biggest hurdle that I had to overcome. I work in restaurant hospitality… That means, insane and wonky hours… 14 hour shifts, shitty eating habits, and typically lots of booze. Its a lifestyle that can lead many down a very unhealthy rabbit hole. I made it a point after my 30th birthday to actively try and move away from that vampiric lifestyle. Crossfit absolutely helped me reach that goal… as long as I am able to get out of bed! I definitely feel that I have control of my schedule and time management more than ever before in my life.
What is your favorite moment at the gym so far?
The second the New Years Day Marathon Row was over! lol.
What’s your favorite “cheat” food?
2 options…
A.) Tacos and Tequila
B.) Pasta and Prosecco
What would you say to someone who is thinking about starting?
Watcha waiting for?
What drives you?
Healthy Longevity!! I want to live as long as possible AND as self-reliantly as possible. I come from and Old-School Italian household riddled with over-weight diabetics and over-eaters. All the women in my family die before they turn 75 because of things that could have been prevented with simple diet and exercise.
My life is WAY too fun to only get to play for 75 years. I’m shooting for 100… maybe even 110!
What is your biggest fitness goal right now?
I had 2 goals for 2022… unassisted pull-ups (no bands) and real toes-to-bar without the help of the dirty south bar. I am very close to both! i accomplished a few single pull ups the other day but now i have to get better at them so i can do them during a workout. I’m also trying to work my way up to a half marathon in Jamaica in December.