Wendy Menachery
Member Since August 2010
How would you describe your previous athletic background before Strength & Conditioning? What were you doing for exercise before Courage Fitness Durham?
I played team sports (basketball and field hockey) in high school and dabbled with running and other training programs in the past, but struggled to find an exercise routine I could stick to while in college and beyond. When my husband and I moved to the area in the summer of 2010 I was looking for a place to workout that would keep me accountable and get results: I found Crossfit Durham’s Bootcamp.
Do you have a favorite workout?
I can’t think of one. One of the things I love about CFD is the constant variation.
What made you want to give Strength & Conditioning a try?
A miscarriage was the trigger for seeking out Crossfit. I wanted to take better care of myself and develop a renewed confidence in my body. I needed coaches that would both challenge and support me in my journey.
What impact has Strength & Conditioning had on your life?
CFD has made a huge impact on my life and self concept. After a year of CFD Bootcamp, I was leaner, stronger, and more confident in my own skin. I stopped worrying about the numbers on a scale and learned to use other milestones to track my progress. A change in my schedule prompted me to “cross over” to regular Strength & Conditioning classes. The Olympic lifts offered me new challenges but the support of the Coaches and other participants were consistent in all of my CFD experiences. Just months into my new routine I learned that I was pregnant, but my positive experience at CFD continued as I worked with the Coaches to modify workouts to accommodate my growing belly. I had an extremely healthy pregnancy and a remarkably smooth labor and delivery. My health and the health of my son are directly related to the strength and conditioning from Strength & Conditioning. The biggest indicator that Strength & Conditioning has made a huge impact on my life: I was working out at CFD 24 hours before labor began, and I returned to CFD six weeks later. I wish I could say that my body quickly bounced back to pre-pregnancy size and strength, but I am still in the rebuilding process four months later. I am thankful that Strength & Conditioning has helped me prioritize healthy living and I trust that consistent effort over time will yield great gains in the long run.
How would you describe Strength & Conditioning to someone that had never heard of it before?
It’s a workout based on high intensity functional movements, but what does that really mean?
It means you work hard for an hour. It means you will feel exhausted yet accomplished. It means you will be challenged, but the workouts are scaled to your needs and abilities. It means that you get stronger, but not necessarily bulky. It means your workouts are constantly varied with opportunities to track your progress. It means you are part of a supportive community that celebrates growth. It is for anyone and everyone who wants to optimize their body.
What is your Strength & Conditioning nememsis?
Toes to bar (& knees to elbows)
What is your favorite movement?
Wall balls!
What is your favorite thing about Courage Fitness Durham?
I like that hard work matters and is encouraged. It’s not about who is the most athletic or talented (although we all appreciate greatness); it’s about pushing yourself and others to find their personal best. It’s a personalized workout in a team environment.
What advice would you offer to others thinking about training at Courage Fitness Durham?
CFD is what you make of it. If you give your greatest effort, you will see the greatest results. Ask questions of your Coaches and colleagues; their help and support will accelerate your progress and keep you safe.