With the CrossFit Games season running, we get caught up in the performances of the athletes that make it through to Regionals and then the Games. What these athletes accomplish is often unbelievable, yet always inspiring. They instil in us the belief that we can do more. However, given this atmosphere around Games season, it’s easy to forget about the bigger picture of CrossFit.
CrossFit is about the everyday person turning their lives around through movement and healthy eating. It’s about the overwhelming majority of CrossFitters giving the WoD horns, just to be better than yesterday. Our May Athlete of the Month, Jubie Gouws, is a great example of what CrossFit is about.
We unfortunately don’t have any pictures of Jubie, but you’ll get to know her in time.
Congrats Jubie, you should be proud.
How did you discover CrossFit?
Through a friend, Paul Smuts. He managed to totally turn his health around by doing CrossFit.
What were you doing sport/exercise wise before CrossFit?
Just went to gym now and then to get Vitality points… Never really been the sporty type.
How long have you been training at CrossFit Jozi for?
I started in October 2012 – I think.
Favourite CrossFit exercise?
Skipping. Would just need to work on the double unders.
Most disliked CrossFit exercise?
Box jumps… Need I say more?
What changes in your health, physique, performance and mental wellbeing have you noticed since starting CrossFit?
Since I joined CrossFit; my life changed completely. More than I think you could imagine. My work performance has increased, I am more driven and I have lots of energy! Overall I am even more positive than ever before. When I leave the box in the afternoon after the WOD I feel as if I can accomplish anything.
What advice would you give to someone with regards to starting CrossFit?
Do not give up! After my first night at CrossFit; I crawled up the stairs and promised myself that I will never go back to CrossFit. The next day Andre Gadney phoned me to provide moral support and made me promise that I will come back to continue with the JumpUp.
What is one word that people often use to describe you?
Hmm… Caring, I would say…
What is something we would be surprised to know about you?
I used to be a registered nurse and specialized in Trauma and Emergency Care and spend long hours in Resus and the Intensive Care Unit of Milpark hospital. This possibly caused an addiction to adrenalin and adventure. I am at a stage in my life where I want to try new things and off course have fun while doing it! I am also a TwiHeart; have all the cds/dvds/books etc. and I support South African bands like Just Jinger, The Parlotones and Prime Circle.
Favourite activity outside of CrossFit?
Spending time with family and friends, watching action packed thrillers on a cold winters day with one glass of red wine, Go-Karts at Kyalami. Also planning to go on a diving course soon.
Favourite place to eat a Paleo-ish meal in Jozi?
Lots of places… Fahrenheit in Edenvale or maybe Cape Town Fish Market etc. Depends on the mood…
What are 2 things you will always find in your fridge?
Fruit and vegetables of course… and then hidden at the back of the fridge some good chocolate – or am I not allowed to say?
The song that gets you pumped up for a workout:
Any remix with good beat! Currently I am listening to Ministry of Sound: Running Trax Summer 2013. It has about 50 motivating dance anthems.
The last thing you ate?
An orange
Proudest accomplishment at CrossFit?
I lost a total of 22kg by eating Paleo 80% of the time and regular exercises. Being a healthcare professional and working in the health care industry, I am very aware of the importance of a healthy mind and a healthy body.
Which CrossFit Jozi member inspires you the most?
Ivan James Kruger – of course! Screamed my lungs out at the Regionals.
Every person facing the WOD with me for that day by giving it their all. We are all in this together.
What are your goals for the rest of 2013?
For now to be the best CrossFittter I can possibly be. To work on my Goats, which I have a lot off…
Please allow me to thank the following coaches:
Imtiaz Desai: For his discipline and no-nonsense approach.
Andre Gadney: For not giving up, even when I was ready to give up.
Then last but not the least, my mentor, Michael Schoeman: For his drive and tenacity, sharing his knowledge, his positive attitude and pushing us to our limits. Mike, you rock!
