NAME: April Schmidt
WHY CROSSFIT JOZI EAST?
I went through a tragedy at the end of September last year and as many people will tell you, I deal with things a lot differently to the normal individual. I was a bit stressed and needed a place/activity where I could redirect my focus and release some tension. Christine suggested I try out a class and insisted that it would be the best thing for me. So I tried out a Saturday class (a bit reluctant, I won’t lie) and the following Monday began with my groundwork. Crossfit Jozi East has definitely changed my life so thank you Christine!
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A MEMBER FOR?
I started my groundwork at the end of November 2015 and officially started with the 5am crew at the beginning of 2016
WHO INSPIRES YOU AT THE GYM AND IN LIFE?
At the gym, I would definitely say all my fellow 5am athletes (especially my girls). I have never been the athletic/sporty type (as can be seen by my lack of ‘fitnessy’ picture). At school, I was the girl who preferred to read than go outside and participate in sports. But with the 5am crew, I have made many friends who push me to better myself physically and mentally.
In life, well that’s a bit more difficult – It has always been my late-father and I am certain that I will always be inspired by his hard-working nature and his willingness to help anyone in need. Currently though, I would have to say my boss. He has become quite the role model over the last year, teaching and guiding me through all the challenges that people have thrown at me.
WHAT ARE YOU DOING WHEN YOU AREN’T AT THE GYM?
I work in the finance department for a company in Boksburg. My job is a big part of my life and I am so grateful for all the opportunities that they have given me thus far.
I am also currently trying to finish my Chartered Management Accounting Degree which has unfortunately not been one of my biggest priorities over the last few months – this will change soon!
Other than working and studying, I love spending time with friends and family, trying new things and just enjoying the smaller things in life.
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU ALWAYS KEEP STOCK OF IN YOUR FRIDGE?
Mmm, currently we don’t have much in our fridge at all BUT I can guarantee you that there will be cheese of some kind. Not the healthiest or most interesting thing but cheese and I have come a long way – BFFs J
TELL US ONE INTERESTING THING THAT PEOPLE MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT YOU?
I am currently in the process of starting up my own events coordinating business. It has always been my dream and I’ve realized that life is too short to wait for the right time. So now is my right time!
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO SOMEONE INTERESTED IN STARTING CROSSFIT?
It doesn’t matter who you are, how old you are or how fit you are, Crossfit is for everyone. I’m not sure about other Crossfit communities but what I have realized is that Crossfit Jozi East is not just a facility where you go to gym, it’s much more than that – it’s a family!
WHAT MOVEMENTS WOULD YOUR PERFECT WORKOUT INCLUDE?
Wow my brain is working overtime with this question – I would say some skipping, maybe some kb swings, ooo and box jumps (now that I can actually do them!)
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST MEMORABLE CLASS AT CFJ EAST?
Not technically a class but it was during the Crossfit Open – workout 16.5.
If I remember correctly the workout consisted of thrusters and burpees and trust me, I thought I was going to start crying. Aileen and Camilla kept pushing me and when I was about to give up, encouraged me to continue (well Aileen kinda screamed at me – but it worked lol!).
I was so proud to say that I survived and that I did in fact complete the workout – Even though it took forever.
Thank you ladies J
WHAT IS THE COOLEST THING THAT YOU HAVE ACHIEVED AT CFJ EAST?
Does it have to be only one thing? I could barely pick up the ladies bar when I started so I think everything that I can currently do is a miracle 😉 But being able to do box jumps is a really cool achievement 😀
WHAT CHANGES IN YOUR HEALTH HAVE YOU NOTICED SINCE STARTING?
I am a lot less stressed and I have a lot more energy throughout the day.
I am also gradually losing all the weight/centimeters that I picked up last year which helps with the stress a bit!
LIST SOME OF YOUR BIG GOALS.
At the gym – the list is endless but to mention one or two – pull ups and handstand push ups (they look awesome!)
Other goals – I don’t know where to start… Finish my post-grad degree, travel, work myself up in my company…
