Each month we spotlight a different CrossFit 1710 athlete who stands out and shows just how awesome they are. What is it that makes up an Athlete of the Month? It may not be the person that finishes the fastest, Rx’s every WOD, or gets a PR every time they walk in the gym. Although we love and celebrate when those things happen, the Athlete of the Month is made up of much more than physical ability. This person shows up, gives their best every time, and then gives a little more. They are hungry to learn and always ready to do the work. They support their fellow athletes and encourage them to reach their goals. This athlete embodies what we believe the CrossFit 1710 Community should be about.
Our February 2025 Athlete of The Month is Kristi Gibson! Kristi joined the CrossFit 1710 team 6 years ago after persevering through a health concern and encouragement from Coach Heather Kalina. As a hard working wife, mom, and business owner, Kristi attends a variety of our class times to accommodate her busy schedule. On any given day we see Kristi hitting the gym solo or partnering up with her husband, Jonathan, or one of her daughters (Kenna & Kenzi). She is intentional with her gym time and does a wonderful job communicating her goals to our coaches. Our coaches are super impressed with and inspired by Kristi's commitment to personal growth and whole health. Kristi- you are one of the strongest women in the whole wide world! We are incredibly proud of you and love having you and the whole Gibson gang in the gym.
Get to know Kristi in her interview below.
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF.
Hi, I am Kristi Gibson. I was born and raised here in Wharton and went to school in Boling from Kindergarten through my senior year. I married my high school sweetheart, Jonathan Gibson, in 2004 and we attended Sam Houston State University where I earned a marketing degree. I had my first daughter, Kenna, in 2006, a week after my college graduation. I was then a teacher for the next 4 years, teaching social studies, English, and math. I had my 2nd daughter, Kenzi, in 2008. I am now a professional photographer after photographing some of my senior students who could not afford senior photos back then. I honed in my photo craft and now have a successful photography business. I attend St John the Baptist Catholic Church and I LOVE it there! I especially love how we stick to biblical principles and are encouraged NOT to conform or compromise with society’s norms or plans, but rather, stick to God’s plan for us. My pride and joy is my family. Jonathan and I have been through so much and thanks to God, we have managed to draw each other closer to Him which should be the ultimate goal for everyone. My daughters are a true testament to what seeking God first can do for anyone. They continue to amaze and inspire me daily and I can truly see God’s work through each of them.
WHAT MADE YOU START CROSSFIT?
I have always struggled with “what people think” about me. Therefore, the standard gym life just wasn’t my jam. I could not handle the thought of people watching me at the gym or criticizing me for my incorrect movements. However, I needed something or someone to hold me accountable for my workouts. I often noticed I was so tired every single day and I tried everything I could to obtain more energy and nothing worked. In 2017/2018 (sometime around there), I found a lump in my breast. Heather Kalina and I worked together at that time at my photo studio. After so much encouragement for me to go to a CrossFit class with her, I finally said if my biopsy came back without cancer, I would go to a class. Praise God, no cancer, and here I am at CrossFit!
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED SINCE JOINING CROSSFIT 1710?
I took a year and a half break from CrossFit, recently, due to being incredibly busy with my mom life. Upon re-joining, I decided to maintain a lean program for myself. My intent is not to lift heavier weights, but rather focus on more reps, faster reps, and maintaining a lean, feminine body structure. Allowing myself to make that decision is something I have learned is ok. I am happy with that decision despite so many people around me out-lifting me in every workout. AND THAT IS OK! I also learned if my 230# husband were to break his leg, I am strong enough to carry him on my back at least for about 100 meters :-)
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT CROSSFIT 1710 OR CROSSFIT IN GENERAL?
100% the best thing about CrossFit 1710 is the people. I have been to a few other gyms and without a doubt, the encouragement and comfort people at THIS gym give out every day is truly unparalleled with any other gym. You will NEVER feel like you are not doing enough here.
WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST CROSSFIT MOMENT?
Hmmmmm, I don’t think I have a super proud MOMENT at CrossFit, but I like knowing that as a 40 year old, I’ve still got it! HA! And, I can still fit in my cheer uniform from high school!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVEMENT/LIFT?
I guess my favorite CrossFit movement is about mat sit-ups. I can knock out some sit-ups quite quickly.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE MOVEMENT/LIFT?
I LOATHE running, burpees, and overhead squats. And you will NOT see me on the assault bike…..that thing was made by the devil himself!
FAVORITE WORKOUT MUSIC?
Take me back!! I love any 80s music or any 90s/2000s hip hop. I am convinced that "Back that Thang Up" was probably written for me.
WHAT IMPACT HAS CROSSFIT HAD ON YOUR LIFE IN AND OUT OF THE GYM?
In 2022, I spent 68 days in a Mexican prison. I did not eat much at all. In fact, what I did eat was often food that was left out (not in a refrigerator) for days at a time. However, due to being so lean and with enough muscle built up throughout my body, I was able to maintain my health better than if I had not been working out prior to this incident. Working out anywhere is always good for anyone’s mental health.
WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS AND HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO REACHING THEM?
I don’t have any personal CrossFit goals. I just want to stay healthy and live for as long as God allows me to live and continue to help and inspire people…..and one day I want to be able to keep up with my grandkids.
WHEN YOU’RE NOT CROSSFITTING WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO?
I love fishing and traveling.
WHAT IS THE ONE TIP YOU’D GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS THINKING ABOUT STARTING CROSSFIT OR JUST STARTED?
Just come try it. You will surprise yourself!
WHAT IS YOUR DIET LIKE? HOW HAS IT CHANGED SINCE STARTING CROSSFIT?
I am currently more mindful of what I eat MOST of the time. I try to live by a whole-foods diet which basically means I try to stay away from processed foods. Not only do whole-foods fill you up faster, but the lack of additives and chemicals, which are found in processed foods, makes my mind feel clearer and makes me feel like I’m truly taking care of myself. As a Coach’s wife and mom to 2 very busy daughters, I often don’t have time to meal prep the way I should. We eat a lot of cauliflower rice (from real cauliflower) and protein shakes and a lot of chicken and fish.
RESULTS? TELL US ABOUT YOUR RESULTS!
I have definitely leaned up a bit. When you start a workout regiment, the main things you are trying to do is get some abs and work on that peach! HA! However, I love my back and shoulders and arms as well. I never knew how much those parts of your body create a better overall “look.”
FREEWRITE-
When it comes to working out, people (including myself) often make every excuse in the book…..I’m too old, It’s too expensive, I can’t do what they do, I’m too fat, I don’t have time, Everyone will laugh at me….. However, the advantages of working out are so vast that even the smallest advantage will probably outweigh your excuse(s). You never know what life may throw at you. The CrossFit 1710 family, the nutrition you will learn about, and the ability to build your strength will have you way more prepared for anything you may encounter.
Just do it.
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