Heta, Heta, Heta, Where do we even begin? It has been one "whooooooooooooping" good year for this lady, and it's no coincidence that Heta is our final Member Spotlight of 2020. Heta stepped into our Xuan Dieu basement in September 2019, and since day one has embraced all senses of CrossFit Tay Ho. She encompasses everything our community stands for: commitment, integrity, community, and growth, to name a few. Heta jumped in headfirst from the minute she graduated her Essentials Course. Showing up consistently and with a can-do attitude. Just a few months later she won the Spirit Award during the CrossFit Open for the member who showed the most enthusiasm, optimism, encouragement, and support for our community. Over the course of 2020 she has gone above and beyond turning up to the WOD floor. Week after week. Barbell Club to Bamboo Club to Barbell Club. Heta puts in the work and it shows. From assisting in clearing out the basement, judging qualifiers & Throwdowns, rallying the Tay Ho army, and of course cheering through it all. Her work ethic and intrigue for the sport has grown exponentially, and Heta continues to be a force in the box. On top of her tenacity and the love of the sport, Heta is motivating, supportive, and friendly to everyone who steps through our doors. We asked a few members to describe her, and the same answers were given repeatedly: "Energizer Bunny" "Consistent" "Positive" "Encouraging" Those words perfectly sum up Heta. We are so thankful to have her be a part of the CFTH community. Read on to find out more about Heta both inside and outside the box. Here is what CrossFit Tay Ho means to Heta: It's just as much about exercise - getting stronger and fitter - as well as social engagement with some amazing people. What was your very first class at CFTH like? In the end of essentials course we had some wall ball-mayhem, which probably kicked off my love-hate relationship with WB’s. There were a couple workouts in the beginning that had me questioning why on earth had I joined but I do remember feeling welcomed and encouraged by everyone around so it kept me going. What are some of your recent accomplishments/a-ha moments/or something you have been proud of in the gym recently? There've been so many greats lately and I'm so proud of everyone at the box. Manjusha is getting so strong, Lana, Lewis and Darrell hitting their deadlifts, Sophie and Holly getting their pullups, Emma and Sabrina are killing it, seeing Sam and Vu and Lindsey and Carrie and rest of the teams crush it in the qualifiers.. What are some goals you are working toward? Gymnastics - trying to work hard on my handstands and pullups. I just don't understand kipping pullups and which direction I'm supposed to move on the rig but Im sure it'll click soon. Vietnam Team Throwdown (thanks again Tra) also gave me a good idea what I need to work on. So pretty much getting better at thrusters and wall balls.. Im trying to focus on mindset as well. Confidence and grit! Favorite movement/WOD and why? It's probably a cliche, but barbell and dumbbell cycling is always fun. I mean who doesn't love a heavy barbell? DT is always a favourite! Favorite CrossFit Tay Ho moment (doesn’t have to be during a class, just any favorite moment at CFTH) All the competitions from this year - Vietnam Summer Throwdown, Westlake Throwdown and Vietnam Team Throwdown. The adrenaline rush you get once the clock starts and everyone is cheering around is truly something - both for the athletes and spectators. The 2020 Open also had a big impact on me. I had only started a few weeks before the open kicked off and it was just something completely new and exciting. Something positive Crossfit has taught you? Resilience. Any advice for someone just starting? Scaling for the win! Everything can be scaled and everyone starts with their own level and capability and each score is celebrated the same. Giving yourself time is the key. If you just put in the work, you are guaranteed to see a jump in your skills and stamina. I do also recommend barbell club to everyone. It really helps build a good foundation for lifts and those skills immediately translate to the workouts. How has your health/fitness/mindset changed since starting CrossFit? I just love the functionality of it - its more about what your body can do, not what it looks like How long have you been in Hanoi? A little over 3 years. Favorite thing to do in Hanoi (outside of CrossFit)? Overeating in the many restaurants of Hanoi. Pool hangouts during the hot Summer months. Westlake Mini Golf. We also recently tried axe throwing at VietAxe which was super fun! Favorite Hanoi Restaurant? Since it got chilly, definitely Pho Ly Quoc Su (either the OG or on Dao Tan). Bao Wow is always a good shout as well as wings at the Moose & Roo Smokehouse. What is a fun fact that would surprise us about you? Don't know if it counts but one of the reasons why I love the ski erg is that we really used to ski to school when we were kids.
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This month all eyes are on Victor. A dedicated member who puts in the work both inside and outside the box. Victor came to Hanoi one year ago, and credits CrossFit Tay Ho for not only keeping him sane in 2020, but helping him become both mentally and physically stronger. Victor has not been doing CrossFit for long but very quickly decided he wanted to commit to his training and wellbeing. He’s been training with consistency and alongside this, he has committed to his nutrition. The progress he has made has inspired us and shown a lot of us what is truly possible when you make a commitment to yourself. Keep up the good work Victor... We see you! Since becoming a member of CrossFit Tay Ho, Victor has been uncovering the fittest, best, and strongest version of himself mentally, physically and emotionally. Read on to find out more about Victor and his life both inside and outside the box. CFTH means Community. I would never have imagined meeting such a group of amazing, dedicated, strong and kind individuals." How long have you been doing Crossfit/how long at CFTH? I've been doing Crossfit for almost a year -- all with CFTH since I started in December 2019 What was your very first class at CFTH like? My first class had wall balls and I remember thinking, "What the hell have I gotten myself into?" Other than that, everyone was so welcoming! What are some of your recent accomplishments/a-ha moments/or something you have been proud of in the gym recently? I lost a lot of the COVID-19 lockdown + stress weight I gained since moving to Hanoi and I recently beat my front squat and push press PBs. I realized how much stronger I've gotten since I started CFTH and I honestly could not have made all this progress without the support from coaches, members, and the CFTH family. What are some goals you are working toward? I'm working towards being able to do a proper handstand and consistent double-unders, and trying to get my mile to under 8 minutes. What is something positive CrossFit has taught you? I'm a fairly competitive person but very self-motivated, which can be an odd combination of personality traits at times. CrossFit has taught me that it's not about being the best, it's about being better than you previously were. Any advice for someone just starting? When I was living in Washington DC, I would walk past a CrossFit gym everyday on the way to work and I was so intimidated. My advice to someone just starting is to keep at it. They've already made one of the hardest steps by just walking into the box and doing a trial or signing up as a member. How has your health/fitness/mindset changed since starting CrossFit? My overall fitness has definitely improved. I feel more motivated overall and CrossFit has helped a lot in dealing with 2020 mentally/emotionally. What do you do out there in the real world?
Isn't CrossFit the real world? (just kidding). I'm a Program Manager for an American consulting firm under a government contract. My day-to-day is mostly focused on strategic communications. How long have you been in Hanoi? I've been in Hanoi full time for 11 months (since December 2019) but I've been flying in and out for work here since 2018. Favorite thing to do in Hanoi (outside of CrossFit)? My favorite thing to do in Hanoi (outside of CrossFit) is taking my dog on a long walk and finding a nice coffee shop to sit down and just chill. Favorite Hanoi restaurant? This is a tough one! There are so many good restaurants so this would depend on my mood but my go-to places are Bao Wow, Los Fuegos, and for Italian (i.e. carbs) -- Dragoncello for great food and wine. When the topic of the next Member Spotlight came up in the CrossFit Tay Ho Coaches meeting, Tanya's name was very quickly put forward as a member to feature. And all six coaches agreed unanimously that Tanya deserved to be highlighted! Tanya joined CFTH in March of last year, totally brand new to CrossFit. She struggled with the foundations early on and was a bit nervous in the box because of it. Just squatting slightly was challenging for Tanya. However, she was determined to put the work in, and that she did. She is now doing all of the right things - working on her mobility in and out of the box, asking questions, and making sure her form and technique is improving before adding any weight. Every coach agreed that the progress seen in Tanya is nothing short of amazing. Even better, Tanya is an excellent human. She is coachable, she is happy, she is thoughtful and kind, and genuinely fun to work out next to and coach. After multiple failed attempts at different gyms, joining CrossFit Tay Ho was one of the best fitness decisions Tanya has made. In her own words... CFTH, for me, is a place where I know I will come out feeling better than I did going in. After a long day at work it’s hard to find the motivation to head down for a workout (especially because I’m a 7pm gal) but from the second you walk into the box you are surrounded with so much energy and positivity that you are buzzed to start the workout." Find out more about Tanya and her life both inside and outside the box! TANYA AND CROSSFITWhat are some of your recent accomplishments/a-ha moments/or something you have been proud of in the gym recently? I remember in one of my first classes I was learning how to do a clean and jerk. I struggled to even lift the bar! Fast forward to the Throwdown and I hit a new PB, which I never thought would be possible! What is your favorite movement/WOD and why? I have to say that I do enjoy a good handstand hold. I spent most of the lockdown practising getting up against a wall in my apartment. Now, the next step is getting away from the wall lol! What is your favorite CrossFit Tay Ho moment (doesn’t have to be during a class, just any favorite moment at CFTH)? My favourite moment/day in CFTH to date definitely had to be “The West Lake Throwdown”. I never imagined myself even enjoying going to the gym and working out never mind competing in a competition in front of so many people! I was so nervous in the days leading up to it, but once I started I felt so comfortable with the support and comradery of the other competitors and onlookers on that day. Any advice for someone just starting? My main advice to someone just starting would be to just have patience with yourself. It can be very frustrating at the beginning when you aren’t able to do certain movements or finish a workout but you will surprise yourself at how quick you start to progress. SOME NON-CROSSFIT QUESTIONS, JUST FOR FUN!How long have you been in Hanoi?
I moved to Ha Noi in September, 2018. So I have just passed the 2 year mark. What are some of your Hobbies, Talents and or Interests? What does a day in the life of Tanya look like outside of being a CrossFitter? When I'm not in the box, I'm an avid Gaelic football player (for those who don't know what that is you should YouTube it!). GAA is also a great community and always welcoming to everyone who wants to join and play another sport! Favorite Hanoi restaurant? Bao Wow, 100%. Our August Member feature is the funny, hard working, and consistent Minju. Minju embarked on her CrossFit journey with us well over a year ago, and continues to add an energetic dynamic to our Tay Ho family. She may seem quiet and reserved when you first meet her, but once you get to know Minju, her vibrant personality shines.We can always count on Minju to add a humorous comment, point out the obvious, and joke around with everyone (especially the coaches). On top of being an enjoyable person to be around, Minju works hard. When she sets her mind to something, she follows through. Recently tackling a battle with double unders that she is working on (and succeeding) conquering. Minju shows up daily, always gives 100% and is happy doing it. Here is what CrossFit Tay Ho means to Minju: “Sounds weird but CFTH is a place where I can finally relax after a long busy day. Especially when having a horrible day, feeling low or too exhausted to even breath, all I can think is getting sweaty with my 7pm crew. Sometimes I show up with a miserable face but I ALWAYS leave with a smile on my face! - Well except when Coach Rico is at the door.. lol” How long have you been doing CrossFit/how long at CFTH? CrossFit Tayho is my first box (Lucky you CFTH) and it has been a year and a half! Favorite movement/WOD and why? Double unders!!!! Took me a year to have ONE double under and now I don't know how to do single unders.. ;) Something positive CrossFit has taught you? I wasn't sure but now it is safe to say that you will always survive from workout.. Also you can see yourself getting stronger, not only physically but also mentally. Any advice for someone just starting? It does take time to learn new skills, so don't push yourself too hard but also do not limit yourself!! The first few months, I always had excuses before even trying - I am too small for this or I had a knee injury etc. It put me off trying new skills for a long time, which I LOVE now. It is good to be conscious if you are new or had injury, but why not just try it out and see how you feel?! How long have you been in Hanoi? Been in this lovely city a year and a half. Favorite thing to do in Hanoi (outside of CrossFit)? Finding new outdoor cafes to read...... well more like to zone out Favorite thing to eat in Hanoi? My favourite resto in Hanoi is a crab noodle place called Quán Út Còi Bánh Canh Ghẹ near Hoan Kiem. And Jackon's is my go-to steakhouse, you should try their Beef wellington!! Atom stepped into our basement box on Xuan Dieu a little over a year ago, signed up immediately, and our community has never been the same. Atom is like a human firework, and his energy is contagious. If you ever enter the gym unmotivated, you can be sure that once you see Atom going HAM, you’re going to switch it on as well. Atom always makes sure to say hello to everyone - and chances are everyone knows him because of it! He is kind and and thoughtful and never steps foot into the gym without a smile on his face. Atom LOVES CrossFit. It has been amazing to see him grow as an athlete, improve his technique, gain confidence in workouts, and genuinely live and breathe CrossFit. Atom has started challenging himself even more by signing up for competitions around Asia (you'll learn in his interview that he wants to compete until he is 100!). Atom works hard, brings the 'IT" factor to our box, and is an extremely valued member of our community. We love that he goes on a pre-WOD run nearly every day, and incorporates sweet ninja moves and dances into his workouts. keep reading to find out what CrossFit means to Atom: I am super proud to be a member of CFTH. Crossfit has become one of my daily routines, like sleeping and eating…. CFTH has become a valuable place after my home and work. Crossfit is the life blood (tonic, energizer) of my life. My goal is to compete until the 100 years division of CrossFit, Maybe I can beat Mat Fraser then? How long have you been doing Crossfit/how long at CFTH? It has been a little over a year and a half since I started CrossFit. I started CrossFit at CFTH, and I am still the One Clubman of CFTH. At that time, when I was on the Xuan Dieu St., I came across the street and accidentally heard it, and when I saw it, I felt a strong impression and immediately registered. During my first WOD, I tasted the new world and immediately fell into CrossFit. One of the best things I have done in my life. Favorite movement / WOD and why? I love all CrossFit movements and WODs. Because of that, I have to do every WOD. Among them, I like WODs with long-time and bare body workouts like Angie, Barbara, Cindy, Murph, Forrest, Clovo. However, in the future, I would like to try WODs with a metallic smell like The Seven and The Don. Surely, I seem to be greedy for all WODs - I can’t wait for new WODs! And, besides box WODs, Dear CFTH, Please continue to make to new WODs like pool WOD, river WOD, sea WOD, mountain WOD, sky WOD... What is something positive Crossfit has taught you? If we really work hard at CrossFit, will we have time to think negatively? I want to ask that. Every day, I feel a great sense of achievement as I finish the big and small, easy or hard WODs. CrossFit is a personal record game, but it is a great attraction to be an exercise that encourages and can be enjoyed with many people. I think CrossFit can be said to be the common language of human sport. It seems to have the charm of making weak people strong and strong people soft. Any advice for someone just starting CrossFit? It is a sport that most people can do if you adjust the difficulty level that suits you. First, find out exactly your physical abilities and age. If possible, it would be better to carry out WODs while improving basic fitness and mobility with a long-term plan. Warm-up for 15 minutes before exercise and cool-down for 15 minutes after exercise to increase your exercise vitality and to prevent injury and recover from fatigue. Lastly, I'd like to say not just to do CrossFit, but to enjoy and trust yourself. How long have you been in Hanoi? I’ve been in Vietnam for 23 years, I have lived in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Danang, Hue... Vietnam is my second country, Hanoi is my second hometown. Favorite thing to do in Hanoi? (outside of Crossfit) I am happy to go to the market and cook for family, even though the dish is tasteless.^^ I like to ride bikes with my lovely daughters around Tay Ho Lake, every trip we try to find different ways to go. Also playing football every Sunday is one of my enjoyments, and it is a pleasure to hang out with Korean close friends who live in Hanoi. Favorite thing to eat in Hanoi? Recently I started to be a Pesco-Vegetarian. I’m addicted to finding vegetarian cuisine, go to a restaurant, or cook at home. All the UU DAM CHAY restaurant's in Vietnam and Western vegetarian cuisine are my most favorite dishes. Let us introduce you to our June female member of the month - Robin! Robin is a 5:30am warrior. She shows up everyday at the early hour ready to start her day on a positive note. Robin, along with her wife Kim, joined CrossFit nearly 1.5 years ago with the idea of just “trying it out”. CrossFit Tay Ho did what it does best, and got her hooked and coming regularly for the last year and a half! Robin has even gotten herself looking at CrossFit boxes around the world when she travels! Robin does not back down from a challenge. Never do you hear a complaint come from her mouth when it comes to her training. She focuses, listens, and works on constantly improving the way she moves through a workout. When Robin is “in the zone” you know it. She has got a concentrated look on her face, does not get distracted by anything, and just plows through the work! Robin and Kim are yet another pair to be leaving us in a few short weeks. They are off to Guatemala to start a new adventure, and of course, find a new CrossFit box and community to be part of. Her solid fixture in the early morning classes will be missed! Here is what Robin has to say about what CrossFit Tay Ho means to her: “It is both a joy and a curse! I enjoy the variety of exercises, love getting confetti on the app when I put in a new score or a PR AND I silently (and playfully) curse the coaches when I can’t move my body because my muscles are screaming! I NEED exercise to keep my mind and body functioning successfully. In the States I ran regularly, but that wasn’t working for me here. My wife hates running and I really wanted us to be able to exercise together...so we tried CrossFit. It is the best match for both of our exercise needs!” How long have you been doing Crossfit/how long at CFTH? I am still quite new to CrossFit. My first ever membership started at CFTH February 2019! Favorite movement/WOD and why? I really like Kettlebell Swings - I can keep up a consistent swing and it helps me ‘feel’ stronger. Something positive Crossfit has taught you? “Just keep chipping away at it” - a quote from Katie that I use in Chipper workouts and throughout my day/life. Any advice for someone just starting? Just do it! Have a positive mindset and know that you WILL grow stronger both physically and mentally. The coaches are great at modifying and helping everyone begin where they need to. How long have you been in Hanoi? I have been in Hanoi about a year and a half. Favorite thing to do in Hanoi (outside of Crossfit)? Exploring and learning...villages, back roads, local celebrations, street markets, and lemon coffee. Favorite thing to eat in Hanoi? Bao Wow - the Skinny Bao is my favorite and Hibiscus Lemonade with soda water. I could eat there everyday! For our May male member of the month, we get to know none other than Graeme Jones! Graeme has been part of the CFTH community since he arrived in Hanoi in August 2017. And from that first moment he joined he has brought nothing but positivity and good vibes to the box. Graeme can talk to anyone about anything at any time. He is the first person to greet you when he walks through the door, and always manages to keep things positive and light even when they’re not. Graeme genuinely loves CrossFit and all that it brings to his life. We can always count on him to be sporting the latest CrossFit attire - not only does he show up everyday, but he shows up looking good! Graeme is one of the first to lend a helping hand and has truly been a backbone of our community for the last three years. Graeme demonstrates the great habit of persevering through it all. We have watched him rehab and recover from an injury and come out the other side stronger. Most recently we have seen him push through his frustration with the elusive double under - which he has now mastered. Graeme, along with his wife Carys (see her Member of the Month here!) will be leaving Hanoi at the end of the school year, and boy will it be bittersweet. We will miss his regular appearance at the box, but know he will be jumping right into a new CrossFit Box in his next home. Find out more about Graeme and what CrossFit Tay Ho means to him: CrossFit Tay Ho is more than just an exercise class. It is a community of likeminded people. It’s what I look forward to at the end of a busy day. It’s a group of people who come together to encourage each other to improve and progress. It’s a place where people leave their egos at the door, and enjoy the opportunity to work hard, and meet new friends. How long have you been doing CrossFit? I started CrossFit 4 years ago while working in Kuwait. There was a box as part of my international school which I attended each night after school. It actually took me almost a year of working at the school to pluck up the courage to go to CrossFit, as I had this idea that it was too challenging for me. However, once I went I fell for it hard. I love how varied it is, and how supportive it is. I have now been attending CrossFit Tay Ho for the three years I have lived in Hanoi. Favorite Movement/WOD and why? My favourite workout is DT. I just love heavy barbell cycling, and it’s a workout that is long enough you need to pace yourself, but short enough you can give it your all in those final few rounds. What is something positive CrossFit has taught you? Probably the most positive and humbling thing about CrossFit is having to learn new skills. Realising that you don’t know everything, and have to start as a beginner can be frustrating, but it is a sport where you can see progress relatively quickly, which is very satisfying. What advice do you have for someone just starting out? Attend classes regularly, and just enjoy being there. You aren’t going to know everything and that is ok. Also, don’t feel silly about asking questions. How long have you lived in Hanoi? I have lived in Hanoi with my wife Carys for 3 years. Favorite thing to do in Hanoi (outside of CrossFit)? Going to Hoang Sen Sauna for a tea barrel and a massage. Gorging on the delicious food here and drinking good coffee comes in a close second. Favorite thing to eat in Hanoi? All the Vietnamese food! But since I have turned veggie, I do miss bowls of Pho and Bun Cha. The Sicilian Pizza from Pizza Belga with added burrata is outstanding. The mushroom burger from Sunkats with fried egg and mozzarella is also a must try! A perfectly timed Member Feature for this month of May: Colleen O’Brien. She recently turned year older (Happy Birthday Colleen!), and is sorely missed these days (particularly by that 9am crew!). Colleen arrived in Hanoi and CFTH in August 2019. Though with us for only a short time, she made quite the impact on coaches and members. Colleen is a literal ball of light. Her constant positive energy shines bright on everyone she meets. According to Coach Rebecca, Colleen is one of the most graceful people around. When she walked down the ramp at 77 Xuan Dieu, or made her way to the board, it was as though she was floating. Colleen is also very keen to improve. Despite a prior injury, she was always ready to embrace the work and improve in all aspects. Colleen had to leave Hanoi earlier than anticipated, though she continues to be an active member of CFTH. She made a lasting impression on all of us during her eight months in Hanoi.Here is what Colleen has to say about CrossFit Tay Ho: CFTH is a community of incredible human beings from all over the world who have provided so much support, wisdom, and encouragement inside the box and out. CFTH has allowed me to connect with people who inspire me and hold me accountable to being the best version of myself, both physically and mentally. I am so grateful for all the laughs, cheering, tough love talks, and camaraderie I have shared with this awesome group of humans. I have never once walked out of the box without feeling lighter, more joyful and stronger than when I walked in.” How long have you been doing Crossfit/how long at CFTH?
I was doing CrossFit for about 2 years back in the 'States before I moved to Hanoi in August 2019. I've been doing CrossFit as long as I've been teaching--it's a much-needed outlet for a tough job! Favorite movement/WOD and why? Sandbags! I can't get enough of a good sandbag clean, sandbag carry, or even sandbag hold. It's such a functional movement, and chucking a heavy bag of sand over my shoulder makes me feel extra badass. It's also an awesome stress release. Something positive Crossfit has taught you? I can be incredibly hard on myself, and ruminate unproductively on where I want to be next instead of where I've been or where I am now. One thing I really appreciate about CrossFit is that you can actually see yourself get stronger over time as you can move more weight, run faster, or access movements you previously couldn't do. CrossFit has helped me remember to celebrate the distance between who I was and what I used to be capable of, and who I am and what I can do now. Keeping that in mind sets me up to keep moving forward instead of getting stuck. Any advice for someone just starting? It's really easy to look at the weights other people are choosing for their WODs and get discouraged instead of inspired. Remember that you don't know what anyone else's journey (fitness or otherwise) has been. In all likelihood, they were once right where you are. Choose to be grateful you get to train alongside such badasses and let yourself progress one day at a time toward where they are (and beyond!). How long have you been in Hanoi? Since August 2019. Favorite thing to do in Hanoi (outside of Crossfit)? Kickboxing! I often double-up and head to kickboxing right after CrossFit. I also genuinely love my teaching job and get excited to go into work most days, as nerdy as that may be. Favorite thing to eat in Hanoi? I'm vegetarian and gluten-free, so when I find places that accommodate those needs, I usually become a regular. I am obsessed with La Studio in Tay Ho, and I absolutely adore the gluten-free pastries at the nearby Easter Oriental Teahouse and Coffee Parlor. It could not be more fitting that April's male member of the month is Rainer. An OG member of Crossfit Tay Ho, Rainer has been part of the backbone holding CFTH together for the last 5 years. He is typically an early morning CrossFitter, starting his day with the 5:30am crew. Rainer can talk to anyone about anything. He brings a sense of calmness and positivity to all situations and conversations - anyone who has had the privilege of knowing Rainer, know this about him. Rainer continuously aims to better himself. Asking for advice on movements, putting in the work to improve, and recently taking on the added challenge of competitions. It is with great sadness that we had to say goodbye to Rainer abruptly, and without much notice. His family made the hard and fast decision to leave Hanoi and head back to Germany a few months early. We will miss him and all that he has brought to the CFTH family over the years. Here is what Rainer has to say about what CrossFit Tay Ho means to him: CrossFit has totally changed the way I approach my health and fitness. Since I started CrossFit, this has become a clearly progressive journey for me. I am constantly improving my abilities and functionality of my body - even though these steps are mostly tiny ones and there are periods without progress - it is now about gains and reaching goals, not about digression and fighting against physical degradation and "age". Since I have entered the second half of my forties, this is quite something! Besides this, CrossFit Tay Ho has become a constant in my life, a "second home" were I am part of an awesome family, a very diverse crowd of people but all on the same mission. Everyone sweating next to each other, everyone on the same level and intensity, no matter if a bamboo stick in the hands or a fully loaded barbell. And all gains, tiny or large are equally respected and cheered. How long have you been doing Crossfit/how long at CFTH?
I started at the end of 2015 with CrossFit at CFTH's first location on 44 Au Co, after Loris Ditta, founder of CFTH had to leave Hanoi on short-notice for job reasons. He had been inviting me to try CrossFit several times but I never got my butt off the sofa. When he left, I felt bad and went to the box... and got hooked, as so many. Favorite movement/WOD and why? My favorite barbell movement is the deadlift, probably because its the only one where I'm hitting 3-digit numbers :) Apart from that, I learned to enjoy gymnastics, such as the pull up movements. Again, it's about the tiny little progressions over the years - I started with no pull up at all in 2015 and managed a first bar muscle up in the open 2019. Something positive Crossfit has taught you? I learned that I can improve my physical abilities and body functionality when I am putting in the work and time and when I am doing this in a supportive environment. Consistency is key but I also learned to listen to my body and give it the necessary time for recovery. Any advice for someone just starting? See it as a life-time journey, a sustainable process of constantly improving yourself and staying healthy. Be patient and enjoy the tiny little steps. Set short-term and long-term goals. Listen to the coach but also listen to your body. Sleep well, eat well. How long have you been in Hanoi? It is my 6th (and final) year. Favorite thing to do in Hanoi (outside of Crossfit)? Discovering new food places. Since I recently started a plant-based nutrition journey, I am currently scoping the vegan food scene in Hanoi which is much bigger than I expected. Favorite thing to eat in Hanoi? Some pearls from Hanoi's veggie universe: Uu Dam Chay, Galeria Cafe, Roots Cafe, Maison Tet, V's Home, Salt'n Pepper, Kiez (new in lane 31 Xuan Dieu!) This month, get to know Teri! CrossFit has improved Teri's life dramatically. It is very clear how much she loves everything about CrossFit. Teri arrived in Hanoi in August 2018, but was in touch with us long before that. As soon as she knew she was moving to Vietnam, she immediately contacted us - the only CrossFit box in the city. She wanted to make sure she found a place to live close by, and she wanted to get started with her membership as soon as she arrived in the city. The summer heat and humidity was no match for her Florida roots. Teri very quickly became an integral part of the community. She sticks to a consistent training schedule, shows up for all community events, and makes sure to check in with members and coaches regularly. We have seen Teri's confidence grow over these last few years; in her CrossFit abilities and herself. Sadly, she leaves us this June for a new adventure - make sure you hit a WOD with Teri before June! Here is what CFTH means to Teri... CFTH gives me my mental health as well as my physical health. I don't know what I would do without the sweat, focus, challenge, and camaraderie of CFTH. All of the members I've worked out with---- past, temporary and present, have supported me....just by being there with me. Crossfit has changed my mind, spirit, and body for the better. I feel STRONG in every way because of it. I never felt that until Crossfit. How long have you been doing CrossFit/how long at CFTH? I've been at Crossfit Tay Ho for 1 1/2 years and I've been doing CrossFit for 3 1/2 years. Favorite movement/WOD and why? My favorite movement is everything cardio --- but I love deadlifts and front squats best. I also love flipping tires and hope our new space will allow this! Something positive Crossfit has taught you and any advice for someone just starting? CrossFit has taught me confidence, focus, trust and discipline. My advice for a beginner is to STICK WITH IT and DO YOUR BEST. You will surprise yourself at what you can do and at the power given to you by the people working out with you. There is nothing like it. It will change your life. Favorite thing to do in Hanoi (outside of Crossfit)? If you are new to Hanoi --- get to CrossFit Tay Ho NOW! It's what I did --- you will feel at home if you have been doing CrossFit already, and you will make friends and connections right away with people who have a common spirit. Everyone here will understand you immediately ---- even if you don't speak the same language, there is a bond |