Andrea Cooke – Member of the Month!

Andrea Cooke is the embodiment of the CrossFit Southie culture.  She is extremely modest, she doesn’t take herself too seriously and she is infectiously fun to be around.   You can find her frequently running past you during WODs, throwing around impressive weights, aggressively working on her goats, and laughing it up around the box.  We are very fortunate to have her as a part of our community and proud to present her with the Belt!

How did you get involved in CrossFit?  What was your first WOD/experience?

When I graduated from college, I moved home (Hartford) for a brief amount of time and found that my parents had developed a new obsession, Crossfit. I initially refused to go, claiming that I pushed myself enough on my own, and that I was already in good shape (looking back now, I would love to know what my definition of “in-shape” was) . After a couple months, I became very bored and grew tired of the same routine. I went to a class with my mom and attempted “Cindy”. Even though I used a big, green band, and did my pushups on my knees, I had never been so exhausted from a workout that took only 20 minutes. I love it!  The crossfit community also intrigued me, when I looked around the box, everyone there was pushing their limits, and physical capabilities, but was smiling while doing this! Unfortunately I was only able to go to my parents box for a couple weeks before I got a job in Boston. Once I moved, it took me awhile to settle into my new life. But after a couple months, I found myself craving crossfit, and so I set out to find one.

I am an extremely competitive person. Sometimes that may get me into some trouble, but that is why crossfit is so perfect for me. I love driving myself to beat an old score or time. The white bored can be my best friend, but can also be an enemy.

When did you start coming to CrossFit Southie?

I started coming to Southie in March, 2011. I can honestly say, that I am so proud to be a member of CF Southie. I travel a lot, and have been to many boxes in the past year. And Southie has an amazing reputation in the crossfit community. The coaches, programming, facilities, and community of Southie is one that cannot be beat. I love rocking my awesome new crossfit apparel!

What are you short-term and long-term CrossFit goals?

Short term- Understanding the snatch movement, 5 ring dips in a row, 125×5 for OHS.

Long term- Competing at the regional level.

What is your biggest accomplishment?

When Goose asked if I would compete at the Team Garage Games with him, Amy, and Maze this past October I tried playing it cool, but was so ecstatic and excited.  To be competing on a team with three of most amazing and talented athletes felt like an honor. I was nervous as hell, and my nerves definitely showed come game time. Coming back after that weekend I made the decision to approach CF differently. I decided it was time that I dedicate the time needed to try and be the best that I can be. And this means working hard on my weaknesses, even though they can be so freaking frustrating!

What is your favorite / least favorite WOD/movement?

Favorite movement is the squat clean, and I like a WOD with running.

Least favorite movement is the snatch or OHS. Those don’t seem to ever agree with me.

What do you do for a profession outside of CrossFit?

I work at Germaine Lawrence, a residential treatment center for adolescent girls with behavioral issues. Needless to say, Crossfit is needed for my sanity’s sake.

What are your hobbies outside of CrossFit?

Love playing soccer, traveling, and currently trying to kick the habit of going out like I am still in college, but that may take awhile…(not helpful for the next question though).  And hanging out with all the amazing people I have met through crossfit!

Do you eat Paleo or Zone?  What is your favorite paleo/non-paleo meal?

Started Paleo-zone this past week. So far, so good, but chocolate now seems to pop up EVERYWHERE I go! I have started making very tasty tomato, veggie, meat sauce, that I put on spaghetti squash. This is my new favorite meal.

WOD
Run 800m

Then 4 rounds

  • 10 Burpee pull-ups
  • 10 Kettlebell snatches (5 each arm)(1.5,1)
  • 10 Alternating pistols (5 each leg)

Run 800m

ADV weighted pistols(1.5/1)
You may sub 1000m rows or 2400m bikes for the runs.