kaitlin bjork - Member Spotlight august 2024
How did you discover CrossFit?
I discovered CrossFit through my good friend, Nikki Larrick! Ever since she started coaching at DeNovo, I would hear stories about the gym and overtime she eventually wore me down haha! The more I heard, the more I thought, well that doesn’t sound so scary. I missed being an athlete and knew I needed to get back into something, but I never thought it would be CrossFit. With all the stereotypes out there, I just didn’t think I could do it. I was so wrong and I’m so grateful to Nikki for introducing me to this life-changing world!
What draws you to DeNovo CrossFit?
I just hit 6 months at DeNovo (crazy!). Time really does fly when you’re having fun! DeNovo brings so much FUN to working out - the people, the environment, the outside of the gym gatherings, etc. I’m still getting to know everyone, but it feels like a family at DeNovo. Everyone wants to get stronger and be healthier individuals and we’re in it together! It’s not about competition, except maybe with yourself. One of the best things ever is someone going for a PR on a heavy day or someone trying to finish a super tough workout, and hearing everyone else in the class cheering them on, wanting them to succeed. Reminds me of my college athlete days and I can’t get enough. It’s not just a gym, it’s a community.
The coaches are incredible and truly care about each person’s individual goals and abilities. I’m still learning about what I’m capable of and where my strength is at with certain movements, so I love it when one of the coaches tells me I can do more weight or a harder variation of a movement. They almost know my abilities better than I do! It feels good to have those tangible examples of getting stronger and it makes me feel like I can do anything, not just at the gym, but in life!! I drank the DeNovo Kool-Aid for sure and I’m never going back!
What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment in CrossFit and in life?
I think my biggest accomplishment in CrossFit was signing up 6 months ago and sticking with it. I was nervous to try something new and fit workouts into our crazy schedules, but now it’s like second nature and I LOVE that. I put my workouts each week in my family and work calendars so everyone knows when I’ll be out. They know it’s important to me and helps me be the best version of myself, so they respect it and it helps me stay consistent! Also, it was pretty awesome when I climbed to the top of the rope during a rope climb day a couple months ago :). Is there a better feeling?!
My biggest accomplishment in life is probably overcoming the darkest time of my life. COVID was tough on everyone and I know so many people had to overcome way worse things than me, but being laid off from my job at 39 weeks pregnant during such a scary and uncertain time took a toll on me and our family. The financial burdens, the isolation, postpartum anxiety/depression, etc. I was not in a good place and it was the most scared I’ve ever been about the future. But, with the help of family (especially Brian) friends, and my faith, I crawled out of that hole and can now say, I’m the strongest version of myself I’ve ever been.
What athlete/s at DeNovo inspire you to be the best version of yourself each and every day?
Everyone! Seriously, there are too many to name! The coaches are all incredible and inspiring and challenge me to be my best. I love Richard’s positivity and dedication. I love being around the athletes that are always cheering everyone else on and pumping everyone up like Laura, Michelle, Todd, Shauna, Kaitlin K, Jerry, Ashley, Ryan, Melissa, and so many more. It makes it so much more fun to feel like we’re all in it together!
What is your pet peeve?
My biggest pet peeve is probably slow drivers or finding my husband’s socks all over the house in random places haha. He calls them little love notes…
What/who inspires you?
I have so many people in my life who inspire me! My brother who is kicking cancer’s ass, my mom who is one of the strongest people I know, my husband for following his dream even when people thought he couldn’t, my sister-in-law who recently donated a kidney to save a girl’s life. They make me want to be better! Also, just strong, empowered women in general. I love reading about female athletes, politicians, business leaders, etc. who are making a difference and don’t ever give up. With two young girls at home (Saydee 5.5, Mady 4), I want them to grow up knowing they can do anything. I love showing them videos of female athletes in the Olympics or doing CrossFit so they can see what strong women look like. I hope to teach my girls that there are no limits to what they can achieve.
Favorite workout song.
Right now, probably “Stolen Dance” by Milky Chance.
What advice would you have for anyone who is nervous to join DeNovo?
Just dive in! Try the Kool-Aid haha! You won't regret it! DeNovo is an incredible place that focuses on overall wellbeing. The community of people is something you will want to be a part of and the workouts are tailored to meet you right where you are at! It truly doesn't matter where you are in your fitness journey, everyone at DeNovo has your back. You will love it!
What do you enjoy doing outside of CrossFit, both for fun and professionally?
For fun, I love to golf, hike, camp, paddleboard, and hang out on sunny patios, mostly at breweries :) with my family and friends.
Professionally, I am the Development Director at Respite Care Inc, a local nonprofit providing care for kiddos with disabilities, giving their families a break. I absolutely love my job and am inspired by those kids and families every day! It doesn’t really feel like work most of the time!
If we were sitting here one year from now, what would we be celebrating together?
One year from now, I hope to be celebrating many monthly DeNovo Committed Club achievements (stickers covering my water bottle) and also being able to do pull ups without assistance! I also hope to be celebrating others’ milestones with them after building on my relationships with the DeNovo community!
Favorite CrossFit movement?
Rope climbs!!!
What are you currently reading?
Reading…not my favorite thing. Need to replace reading facebook memes with reading an actual book ha.
What are you thankful for?
DeNovo CrossFit! (I told you, I drank the Kool-Aid!) :)