August Member Spotlight: Emily Rittenhouse

Tell us a little about yourself and what got you on the path to CrossFit…

I grew up on Long Island, went to school upstate NY (Geneseo), and lived in NYC for 5 years. I moved to Charleston in Feb 2021 after a brutal, yet introspective, year living alone in Brooklyn during COVID. I’ve always wanted to try out CrossFit, but it was always too pricey in NY (and generally very intimidating). When I moved down here, I was in the mindset of doing all the things that scare me–including stopping by CFJI to sign up!

Other things I do! I just switched into a new role in People Ops/HR, with the goal of eventually starting a side-hustle of career coaching / resume building / helping people find a job they love. I also do photography on the side, and I’m going to start singing at open mics / gigs around the city very soon! Manifestations brewing.

What keeps you coming back each day?

The people, the coaches, and the consistent structure of class. It’s settling to know there’s a routine of every class, and people to support you in every class, even if the workout is a grueling one.

What is your favorite at-home exercise to do?

I don’t really do any at-home exercising… cause #cfji :/

I would probably say yoga/meditation, or practicing my handstands so Betty thinks I’m an upside-down alien.

If you had to do 100 reps of one movement (not running), what would it be?

Burpees–or 100ft handstand walking if that counts!

What are 1-2 of your goals for 2022? Have you accomplished any of these?

(1) meditating more consistently

(2) drinking less alcohol

(2) sticking to my boundaries/standards & not settling for less no matter what

These are never-ending goals but I feel like I have gotten to a point where I feel like I’ve accomplished them since they are ingrained as positive habits now. It’s been a big year for personal growth!

Favorite Lift?

Clean or Squats

Least favorite Crossfit movement?

Wall Balls & Overhead Squats

Hometown?

Northport, NY (long island, baby!)

Favorite Charleston Restaurant?

167 Raw 👅

If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?

I’d really love to lead a kid’s choir, or run a school play one day.

What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13?

Be yourself …and stop shaving your legs with a dry razor.

If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?

Both of my grandfathers died when I was a pre-teen, I do wish I could hang out with them now.

One thing about me people would be surprised to know?

Let’s see… I was a cheerleader & theater nerd in high school! I was in a cappella groups in high school, college, and then out of college in NYC for 5 years (shameless plug). I did not truly get into ~fitness~ until I started running half marathons in 2016. Then CrossFit in 2021, and here we are today!

If the CFJI coaches came to your house for dinner, what would you prepare?

A gorgeous cheese platter, some tacos, margs, plus a Trader Joe’s Kringle w/ ice cream for dessert.

Give us a “Question of the Day” to use in class.

What’s typically the first thought you have when you wake up?

Do you have a side hustle? If yes–what is it? If not–if you could start a side hustle, what would it be?

What’s your humor style? (e.g., goofy, dry, sarcasm)