Member Spotlight: Meet Tanya

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 CROSSFIT

What 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%.