Athlete of the MonthJuly

Anna Colbert

Career: Associate Director of the University of Delaware's Partnership for Public Education

Years at CrossFit Kennett Square: 2

"I am a lot stronger than I was a year ago. I can do things in class that seemed out of reach when I began CrossFit, and I continue to see changes in my ability every week."

Favorite WOD: Blue Hen

Least Favorite WOD: My least favorite WODs are anything with burpees and running, but I always feel accomplished when I show up and complete those workouts.

Tell us about your sports & fitness background: I danced for 16 years and then worked out with a personal trainer for several years. However, I hadn’t worked out in a group or formal gym for two years before joining CFKSQ.

How did you first get exposed to CrossFit? Take us back to your first WOD…what was it, and how did it feel? My first WOD included rowing, clean and jerks, and push-ups. It was a smaller class,
and I worked out next to Kelly. I remember being noticeably sweatier than I had been after a workout in a while but also being proud of myself for making it through my first class. Everyone was super supportive and welcoming, which helped a lot.

What sort of changes have you seen in your body, health and fitness since
starting CF (before/after)? Overall, I am a lot stronger than I was a year ago. I can do things in class that seemed out of reach when I began CrossFit, and I continue to see changes in my ability every
week. I also sleep a lot better and am more conscious of my diet because I quickly recognized that it affected my performance in class.

What sort of changes in your life have you experienced out of taking on
something like CrossFit that were totally unexpected? Honestly, I didn’t expect to love CrossFit as much as I do. I joined intending to continue losing weight and to improve my physical health, but I also feel like my overall wellness has improved.

Please share with us any favorite CrossFit / CFKSQ moments: One of my favorite CFKSQ moments was the first Friday Night Lights during the CrossFit Open. I became incredibly nervous after reviewing the standards and started to panic about my decision to attend. However, Everett offered to be my judge and
supported me the entire time. I felt so good when it was over because I had overcome all the nerves and anxiety. Plus, I accomplished something I had never achieved during class.

Any advice for people just getting started? My advice would be to listen to the coaches, make CrossFit part of your routine, and show up for classes (even the ones with burpees and running).

What are your hobbies, interests and/or talents outside of CrossFit? I love being in school. I would be a student forever if I could. I also go to Longwood Gardens regularly and enjoy painting when I have the time.