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 May 2023 Athlete of The Month is Natasha Jackson! Natasha began her CrossFit journey with us in 2021, joining her son Tae’vion at our previous gym location. She took a break for a little bit but returned to the gym earlier this year. Natasha works as a deli manager at Buc-ee’s and previously worked as a CNA for 15 years. She loves helping and encouraging others and has a smile that lights up the room! Natasha usually attends our 4:30class ready to learn, grown, and have fun. Our members and coaches are incredibly inspired by Natasha’s joyful attitude and commitment to become the best version of herself. Natasha- We’re incredibly proud to have you as our May 2023 Athlete of the Month and as a fantastic example to our community that consistency leads to undeniable results.
Get to know Natasha in her interview below.
1. TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF.
My name is Natasha Ann Jackson. I’m a 40 year old mother of two handsome sons named Deontae and Tae’vion Richards. I’m also a proud grandmother of three beautiful grandchildren named Amaya 4, Delilah 3, and Adin 1.
2. WHAT MADE YOU START CROSSFIT?
My son Tae’vion talked me into CrossFit. He said, “Mama just try it, you’ll like it.”
3. WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED SINCE JOINING CROSSFIT 1710?
It’s not just a gym that you go to get a workout, but a community of people who are willing to help each other and encourage you to keep going. There is always someone there to lend a hand, push you past your limits, and who cares about your success.
4. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT CORSSFIT 1710 OR CROSSFIT IN GENERAL?
We have the best coaches in the state of Texas. I wouldn’t be the athlete that I am today if it wasn’t for the motivation of my coaches. I am blessed to have such great and wonderful people in my life. Thank you Coach Jason, Coach Jodie, and Coach Shannon!
5. WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST CROSSFIT MOMENT?
My proudest moment is when we were doing back squats. I was partnered with Kassandra and she pushed me lift move. I thought I could not do it, but she said, “Yes you can!” That day I back squatted 75 pounds.
**UPDATE** After her interview Natasha improved her 1 rep back squat max to 150 pounds!
6. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVEMENT/LIFT? LEAST FAVORITE?
My favorite is deadlifts and my least favorite is those burpees(lol).
7. WHAT IMPACT HAS CROSSFIT HAD ON YOUR LIFE IN AND OUT OF THE GYM?
The impact CrossFit has had on my life is loving myself, moving daily, and telling myself that I can do it. When people see me in or outside the gym they say, Natasha you look good. That makes me feel good from within.
8. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS AND HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO REACHING THEM?
My goal is to be fit and healthier. Thanks to following the right nutrition plan and CrossFit, I’m close to reaching my goal.
9. WHEN YOU’RE NOT CROSSFITTING WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO?
Reading and studying God’s word. I love spending time in fellowship with God because without Him, I would not be the woman that I am today.
10. THE ONE TIP YOU’D GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS THINKING ABOUT STARTING CROSSFIT OR JUST STARTED?
Do not give up. Hang in there. The best has yet to come. We all need to be encouraged to start and keep going!
11. WHAT IS YOUR DIET LIKE? HAS IT CHANGED SINCE STARTING CROSSFIT?
Coach Jason’s emails about nutrition, eating right, how to eat have helped me tremendously. It really changed how I intake food and what I put in my body.
12. RESULTS? TELL US ABOUT YOUR RESULTS!
When I started CrossFit back on January 23rd, 2023 I weighed 238 and today I’m at 209.
**Check out Natasha's before and after pics in the collage below!**
FREEWRITE: Thank you Coach Jason for bringing CrossFit to this community. It is what this little town needed!
Proud of you Tasha. You truly look amazing! God bless you. Keeping moving forward and stay focused beautiful.