Athlete of the Month : January 2025

Our first 2025 Athlete of the Month is Jackie Survilla. Thank you Jackie for your consistent efforts in the gym. That is just one of the reasons you stood out to us for this honor. Jackie is not the loudest or most outgoing person in the gym by any means. If you’re in class with her, you may not even hear her speak, but she does. She came to us a little less than two years ago from another gym and has been improving since day 1. With a background in many different sports, this type of fitness is a smooth and fun way for her to remain active. I really enjoy coaching her because of how receptive she is to all our coaching tips/cues. She tells you if she doesn’t understand and she works her butt off to get better. Toes to bar is one skill in particular I’ve worked with her to him consistency. It’s awesome to witness the work pay off. Lately, I took note of how good her push-ups are. They are some of the best in the gym. That type of thing is something I want for everyone. Push-ups are a movement you can work on literally anywhere. It’s great seeing Jackie’s favorite moment in the gym thus far is the weightlifting class led by coach Murdy. I was fortunate enough to fill in for coach Murdy this past weekend when he was away. Jackie was moving well and with a couple reminders to stay aggressive, she hit a new PR snatch without even attempting max effort. She just built up as she felt comfortable. I like how her current fitness goal is consistency with 10k steps per day. In today’s world, so many people work from home and sit at desks. This makes for little passive activity. Jackie is also getting married this year so there is plenty to be celebrating for her. Keep working hard and I’ll see you in the gym, Jackie. Also, I told her that the 125lb snatch PR will be 140lbs in the next few weeks if she keeps it up.

Written by: Coach Rob Moloney

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Q&A
Why did you start functional fitness cross-training?    
My mom, sister and I had signed up for a crossfit gym that was doing a deal for a girls only gym. We did that for about a year and then joined the gym across the street. This allowed us to become comfortable with the movements before going over to the “dark side” as they called it.

What’s your background? (Athletic)  
I grew up playing all the sports you can think of: softball, soccer, tennis, karate, basketball, to name a few. This then turned into softball and volleyball throughout high school. In college, I played volleyball but now that I am retired, it has turned into beach volleyball!

How long have you been a member and how long have you been doing functional fitness?  
I have been a member for about a year and a half and I have been doing functional fitness for about 8 years.

What is your favorite thing about the gym?  
My favorite thing about the gym is the community and being able to socialize while also getting in a workout.  Everyone is so supportive and makes you feel welcome, which is not always the case at some gyms!

What is the biggest challenge you have overcome since joining the gym?       
Filling out this form for athlete of the month HAHA

What is your favorite moment at the gym so far?  
Weightlifting class with Coach Murdy

What's your favorite "cheat" food?     
There is no such thing as a cheat food in my diet

What’s your go to meal to cook?   
Tacos!!!

What would you say to someone who is thinking about starting?    
It may be out of your comfort zone, but its so worth it to at least give it a try. The feeling of finding yourself being better at certain movements or beating your time in past workouts is such motivation to keep going back to the gym and wanting to be better everyday!

What drives you?   
What drives me is the challenge and growth that comes with pushing my limits, all while living a healthy lifestyle. My hope is that friends and family can see how active I am and how much fun I have working out and want to pursue a healthy lifestyle as well. Also I am getting married in 8 months, so have to fit into my dress!

What is your biggest fitness goal right now?
Getting 10,000 steps a day

Who are 3 influential people (alive) who you would want to have dinner with? 
Post Malone x 3

What is a book, documentary or movie you think everyone needs to check out?    
I just started listening to this podcast called “The Mindset Mentor.” The episodes are about 20-30 minutes and very informative about keeping a good mentality and making sure you have good habits.