Upper East Side

Hey folks. We’re excited to introduce this months Athlete Spotlight. Gabby Mauer!

We caught up with Gabby and asked her a few questions about her experience at EVF CrossFit Upper East Side. Here is her journey in her own words.

— Coach James

Upper East side or Columbus Circle?

I like to think that I am more of an uptown girl. 😉 CrossFit Upper East Side!

How/when did you get involved in CrossFit?

It was a scorching hot Thursday back in June 2013 (Yes, I remember the exact day. Don’t judge.) Fresh out of college and new to the city, I decided to find out about the buzz, as my previous boss was an avid CrossFitter herself. I walked into EVF and was immediately greeted by Julia, who I then followed down those stairs lined with encouragement. I did not know what I was getting myself into as I was distracted by barbells, kettlebells, and the crashing of weight (just kidding, NO DROPPING).

I agreed to try a free intro class that same Saturday and was honestly going to cancel. Mid-run in Central Park, I found myself chatting with Julia confirming that I would in fact be there. Boy, am I glad I showed, because my whole New York experience was about to change for the better.

Do you remember your first workout? How was it?

My first workout was intense! One filled with the CrossFit essentials: burpees, wall balls, ab mat sit-ups, etc.

I was paired up with a man who had been CrossFitting for over a year. There was this overwhelming sense of pressure as I felt like I had to keep up (OK, just a little … I have a tendency to inflate things). In all seriousness though, I left feeling sluggish and lethargic, a feeling that I hadn’t experienced in quite some time.

However, I was immediately hooked. After my official graduation from On-Ramp, I signed up for as many classes as my body and work schedule would allow.

What were your goals when you first started? How have they changed?

I would be lying if I did not say an initial goal of mine was to lose weight. Such a “girl” thing to say. I have always been an active person, dabbling in different types of activities, but after joining CrossFit, that goal has evolved into something greater.

A main goal that I have adopted and remind myself every time I step foot in the box is to never stop the self-competition. I want to constantly push myself forward and strive to obtain the “impossible,” however cliché that may sound.
Another goal of mine is to always have fun. A good smile and a bit of laughter make everything better. The best WODS are those that turn into dance parties (have to appreciate Farouk’s fine taste in music).

How have you grown in that time — health, body, mind, etc.?

Within the eight months that I have invested, I have gone through the physical and mental pains. Like everyone, I have had my ups and downs. I think anyone can agree that CrossFit challenges mental strength. More often than not, these workouts can get the best of us. What I have come to realize is that the WODs are building blocks designed to break down, but most importantly, build. At the end of the day, better yet WOD, we are building and becoming stronger. It is ultimately our choice to do what we want with it. We can either sit down, eat non-paleo chocolate (my poison — Butterfingers) or we can lace up and lift ungodly amounts of weight. Do you choose the former over the latter?

What do you enjoy most about CrossFit?

What I enjoy most about CrossFit, besides the fact that we all look like total bosses carrying our groceries, is the never-ending encouragement and support that is passed along through our community. What makes EVF stand out above all is its members. It is the last scream from the person in front, pushing a final rep before the buzzer runs out. The endless fist pounds after finishing a spicy yet grueling workout. Or maybe it’s the after-hours bonds established both inside and outside of the box. Whatever it may be, it sure is contagious.

Favorite lift and WOD?

Love me some push presses. Favorite WOD? Can’t answer. They all are hard. Maybe a Fran and Murph fusion? Any takers?

What about your least favorite?

Anything that incorporates toes to bar.

What motivates you?

That next PR.

Do you have any advice for new members?

Anyone can do CrossFit. Everything is scalable. Never, ever tell yourself you cannot do something, newbie. You can do anything you put your mind to. In the wise words of Winston Churchill, “Never, never, never, give up.” I think our strong community can back me up on this one.

What do you hope to achieve in the coming year?

By this time next year, I hope to achieve those advanced movements, including but not limited to toes to bar (consecutively), strict pull-ups, chest to bar, etc.

I leave everyone with this: It is very rare to find a place where one fits in immediately and is welcomed with open arms. A place where you check your woes at the door and crush your pain with a heavy barbell. EVF is filled with like-minded individuals who strive for excellence during each and every workout. Where else can you find such atmosphere?

CrossFit cultivates.