October Member Spotlight: Meet Amber

You might have first been introduced to Amber as she was standing atop the Podium at our 2020 Westlake Throwdown - but that was definitely not the last you saw of her. Amber joined CFTH in August 2020, and hasn't looked back since. Not only does she use CrossFit to help in her other athletic endeavors - running, triathlons, Gaelic Football - but she has truly jumped headfirst into the sport of CrossFit.

Amber is someone who aspires to be better. Nothing is too daunting, no matter how big the challenge. She chooses what she wants to be able to do, and then starts working on it. Over the last year we have seen her work her way to doing handstand push ups and pull-ups! Her growth mindset and tenacity to meet her goals is just one of the many things we love about Amber.

On top of being a hardworking, constantly improving athlete, Amber is simply a cool person to have as part of our community. She makes sure to check in with others, asking how their day went. You can always count on a smile, laugh, or little dance move mid-WOD. She has a positive energy that constantly shines both inside and outside the box. We are all thankful and lucky that Coach Cormac convinced her to become part of our community!

Real Talk with Amber...

As an athlete, you are a force to be reckoned with because…
I am competitive by nature and I like to set high standards for myself.
 
You are working hard to strengthen and improve…
My mobility and squats. I recently did Rebecca’s mobility program and it has motivated me to continue.
 
Hard to choose just one, but what is your favorite workout and why... 
Definitely any chipper because there’s always a variety of movements and I like having a set target to accomplish.
 
CrossFit has made your life better, here is why…
I have met some of the most inspiring and kindest people and it has taught me that my body and mind are capable of anything.
 
CFTH holds a special place in your heart because..
Of the invaluable friendships I have made and how much it has allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone.
 
Pick your poison - Run, Bike or Row...
Definitely run

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What does CrossFit Tay Ho mean to you?
​It is my home away from home as well as a safe space for all walks of life. I have gained the most incredible friends and it is a space where I can grow and push myself beyond my own limits. If I have had a bad day, I always walk out of the box feeling rejuvenated. 

How long have you been doing CrossFit/how long at CFTH? 
I started CrossFit in August 2020 thanks to Cormac for convincing me to try it out.  
 
What are some of your recent accomplishments/a-ha moments/or something you have been proud of in the gym recently?
 I never thought I would be able to do a pull up, so when I did my first kipping pull up without a band I was beyond excited. Also, all the barbell moments have been a-ha moments because I never thought I would move past the training bar lol!  
 
Favorite CrossFit Tay Ho moment (doesn’t have to be during a class, just any favorite moment at CFTH)
 It definitely has to be the Westlake Throwdown. I was still new to CrossFit at that stage but watching everyone do their thing was so inspiring and you could just feel all the love in the box with everyone supporting one another. Katie helped me find a partner a week before the Throwdown which was Ken and honestly I couldn’t have asked for a better partner.
 
Any advice for someone just starting? 
Just try it out, it is not as scary as it may seem. Also be kind to yourself, there is always an alternative and you are more capable than you think. Never be afraid to ask questions because between the coaches and the other members you will always feel comfortable.

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What does a day in the life of Amber look like outside of being a CrossFitter?  
Outside of the box I am a primary teacher, I also play Gaelic football and enjoy cycling on a Sunday with some of the other members.

How long have you been living in Hanoi? 
I been living in Hanoi for 3 years.
 
Favorite Hanoi restaurant? 
That is a tough one, I love trying out new food but I do love Hanoi Cider house or Bao Wow.