APRIL ATHLETE OF THE MONTH
DANA BAKER
Dana has been around CFA FOREVER! Since the very beginning! An energy powerhouse we are so lucky to have her. Here’s what she says about how her life intersects with CrossFit:
Tell us a bit about yourself and your family
Stephen and I have been married for 24 years and have 3 boys (Stevo 20, Thomas 18, David 15). I have a degree in Early Childhood Education and taught kindergarten a lifetime ago before having kids. I enjoy cooking, walking the dogs, reading, family vacations at Edisto and love to find sharks teeth .
What made you start CrossFit? What has kept you going? Has your motivation changed over time? What are your fitness goals? Personal goals?
I had never heard of CrossFit and one night way back in 2012 hubby stumbled across something on TV called “The CrossFit Games”; this woman was doing something called Toes to Bar. It was Annie Thorisdottir and I literally said “I have to do that.” Two weeks later I heard about Brent. My first WOD was Cindy. I was so sore the next day and my first thought was ‘I can’t wait to go back.’ In the beginning it was all about learning and mastering new skills. Then it became about beating all the boys and anyone younger than me. I earned my CrossFit Level 1 Certifictaion in 2013 and it’s one of the best things I’ve done for myself. Now, my gym time is to relieve stress, push myself when I can, ease off when I need to, and not take the board so seriously. I’m in it for the long haul and want to be able to move my body as efficiently as possible for as long as possible.
What have you learned about movement, fitness, and yourself through CrossFit?
Mobility is key.
Scaling is smart.
Integrity is everything.
How do you make time for working out?
I’m old school and my workout times are literally written in my agenda for the week!
What is your fave healthy meal etc?
I’m a big believer in breakfast and it’s probably my favorite meal no matter what time of day. I drink a lot of milk. I don’t and never have counted calories, macros, keto or anything like that. I plan a weekly menu and shop according to the list. I love to try new recipes and our fridge is full of fresh meat, fruits, veggies and herbs. BUT we do have 3 teenage boys in the house so yes we do have junk food in the pantry and I eat that too, in moderation. If you join us for dinner it would be one of our family faves: pan sauce pork tenderloin, peas/butterbeans, Mac n cheese, honey cornbread with homemade strawberry jam.
What would you say to anyone who is struggling?
Come to Boot Camp!
What or who is an inspiration to you?
MY FAMILY 100%! And seeing results, hard work pays off!
