December Member Spotlight: Christine Brannan

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

I’m originally from Long Island, NY. Before moving to Charleston, Shamus and I lived in Northern Virginia for 8 years. We moved here in December 2020 and it’s the best thing we’ve ever done!

I’ve always worked out in some form, mostly on my own. When we moved to VA, I joined a bootcamp gym which incorporated more weightlifting than I had done in the past and I loved it. In 2018 I belonged to a gym that also had CrossFit. I was super intimidated by it but was also looking for a challenge so I tried it and that was that!

What keeps you coming back each day?

The community and the coaches. I know my day is 1000% better after class (yay 5:30). It’s an opportunity to reset, challenge myself and improve each day.

What is your favorite at-home exercise to do?

Yoga - it’s hard to motivate myself to do anything else at home.

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

Air squats or ab mat sit ups

What are 1-2 of your goals for 2021? Have you accomplished any of these?

I wanted to get back in shape after an injury and Covid. I’m definitely feeling more like myself - stronger, healthier!

I really wanted to learn how to surf. I had this vision for my life when we moved to Charleston that included me as a surfer. I’ve taken a few lessons and now I need to buy a board. It terrifies me but I’m learning to push through that fear.

Favorite Lift?

Clean

Least favorite Crossfit movement?

Snatch. Nothing on this earth makes me feel less fit.

Hometown?

Rockville Centre, NY

Favorite Charleston Restaurant?

All of them lol. I haven’t narrowed it down yet.

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

Literally any position at Trader Joe’s. They are all so happy!

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

Never give up being authentically you just to fit in. Don’t conform and don’t should yourself to death. When things get tough don’t quit (unless quitting is the healthier decision).

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

I was trying to come up with an intellectual response but my honest answer is Ricky Gervais. I really love comedy and how little he cares what other people think.

One thing about me people would be surprised to know?

I went to fashion school for a semester at The Fashion Institute of Technology in NY. It was my dream!

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

I’m not Italian but I make really good sauce and meatballs, or a roasted chicken. Either chocolate chip cookies or Irish soda bread for dessert.

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

What strategies do you use to overcome your fears?