August 1, 2012 in Blog by Turbo

July 2012 Member of the Month: Leonie Coulson

The CrossFit Winnipeg Member of the Month is Léonie Coulson.  Leonie is celebrating her 1 year CrossFit anniversary this July and what a privilege and pleasure it has been to watch  her grow and flourish as an athlete!  What is really remarkable is her dedication and work ethic. Leonie is one strong woman.  When I come in to do the WOD, I confess to always checking Léonie’s scores so that I have an idea of what to aim for.   On top of all of this, she has made an unmistakable impact on CFW as a community.  Community is one of the things that makes CrossFit so special and Leonie is a testament to that, always eager to support and contribute to this great family we call CFW.  Thanks Léonie!

Léonie Before & After CrossFit

Age: 33

Height: 5’5

Weight: 142lbs

What is your favorite exercise or workout?

Barbell Complexes and short and intense metcons but I like most exercises

What is your least favorite exercise or workout?

Rowing, it takes everything out of me and situps I can’t do them fast.

Tell us something interesting about yourself?

Met my husband while backpacking in India, we started our life and business together at the age of 20.

What is your favorite hobby, pastime or sport?

I enjoy being creative, through jewellery and art, I love music, the outdoors and travelling. Other then Crossfit being my favorite sport, I love anything I can play with the kids (they are still young enough, that they consider me very good)

What were you doing before Crossfit?

I have always been an active person, I played high school sports and provincial fastball.  As an adult, I did spend time at the gym and 6 months before Crossfit I started doing bootcamps.

How did you find out about Crossfit Winnipeg?

After floating from bootcamp to bootcamp, I ended up at the Uof W where I had the pleasure to meet Coach Stef.  It’s thanks to her I am here today!

What changes have you seen in yourself or your life since joining Crossfit Winnipeg?

I have seen the most amazing changes that I never thought could of been possible.  Going from a size 12 to a size 6, being able to do handstands, pullups, and monkeybars something I could never do as a kid.  I was raised in a very healthy family, but introducing the right nutrition was the most beneficial.

Do you have any special memorable Crossfit Winnipeg moments?

Every WOD is special in the moment.  I will never forget some of the first ones, where I would get so nervous and hope for it to be over fast.  Surprising myself with second place in the Intermediate division at Frostfit and performing well in the Opens.  It’s amazing what you can do when you are under pressure.

What advice would you give a newbie or someone just joining Crossfit Winnipeg?

To try and not be intimidated, the coaches and the members are all so nice and supportive.  To focus on what you are doing in the class, your technique, your pace, not to only try and keep up with the guy or gal next to you.  To be brave and keep showing up, even if you think you can’t do the WOD, you will surprise yourself.  Think one class at a time, good sleep and nutrition, the results are priceless.

What is your biggest accomplishment at Crossfit Winnipeg?

I am so thankful to my family who have supported me and managed the time for me to commit to my new lifestyle.  I couldn’t do it without them.  I have found strength and skills in myself that I never thought imaginable.  I am a better mother, wife, and boss.  I am so excited to keep working hard and reaching my new goals one step at a time.