Elaine Dunbar - Athlete of the Month

Elaine Dunbar - October Athlete of the Month

1. Tell us a little about yourself!

I have been a teacher since 2017. I currently teach Algebra however my first certification was Special Education and ELA. While my first career was in finance, being blessed with a son who has autism, made me look at life differently. I knew I wanted to be part of a community that supports all our children regardless of if they have a special need.

2. Faith is a big part of who you are — how does it influence your mindset and approach to training?

My Faith in God is everything to me. God first and then my family. This influences my mindset and approach to training because I want to be healthy and enjoy my family for many years to come. I cannot imagine a time when I could not ride my bike or go hiking with my children. To have this quality of life I must take care of myself.

3. You’re known for setting small, consistent goals in the gym. What’s one recent goal you’ve accomplished that you’re proud of, and what’s the next one you’re working toward?

The goal that I am most proud of is being able to climb a rope. I remember what you Brandon said to me to just practice how I position my feet. I did this every day and watched videos online. I was so proud when I completed my first rope climb, I could not believe it. I remember calling my son and saying I finally did it, he said I knew you could mom. Now I feel like I must accomplish my next goal of toes to bar. I must set an example for my children that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.

4. As a teacher and athlete, how do you balance the demands of work, faith, and fitness?

As a teacher I understand the importance of planning my day. I must stick to a pacing guide and if I derail from my lesson plans it affects my students. I bring this same mentality into my faith and fitness. I know that If I do not prepare my gym bag and meal prep then I will not have enough time in the mornings to make it to the gym at 5:30. This drives me to always be organized and make sure I am ready for the next day. Similarly, I feel that If I can be dedicated to my fitness and work, I can dedicate 30 minutes every morning as soon as I wake up to meditate and pray. Being grateful for another day is a non-negotiable for me.

5. What originally brought you to CrossFit Bound, and what keeps you coming back each week?

I originally attended CrossFit Allatoona. It was my first time ever experiencing this kind of workout and I absolutely loved it. I loved the people and the environment. While I really enjoyed that gym, I knew if I was going to make this a lifestyle I had to find a place that was close to work and my house. Going to CrossFit Allatoona, based on the distance

prevented me from being consistent. I researched and found CrossFit Bound. What really made me feel this was my place was when I saw the video on the CrossFit bound site. I loved the diversity in fitness levels and the people who were part of the gym. Hearing the testimonials made me feel like I could fit in and grow as an athlete.

6. What’s your favorite movement or workout — and which one challenges you the most?

My favorite movement or workout is when we have a day where deadlifts are incorporated. I feel I am stronger in my legs than upper body. Pull ups and handstands challenge me the most due to my shoulder injury however I do feel like I am making strides. While they are small, I feel stronger each time I attempt to them. I cannot do a handstand yet, but I am working towards it.

7. How has CrossFit impacted your life outside of the gym — physically, mentally, or spiritually?

In July I experienced a major loss in my family. I can honestly say CrossFit helped and is still helping me with the grief I am experiencing. For that hour I just think about achieving the workout goal for the day and it makes me forget. Spiritually and mentally, it makes me feel like if I can accomplish this, I can learn to live with this loss. I will never get over it, but I can learn to live with it.

8. What advice would you give to someone who’s just getting started at CrossFit Bound and maybe struggling to find consistency or motivation?

I feel like it is ok to fall off sometimes just don’t quit and eventually it will get easier. Just like learning to drive a car, most of us lost control of the vehicle or made a bad turn the first time behind the wheel however, once you were comfortable you just drive, and it is just part of your routine. Similarly, just start your fitness journey. The more you do it the easier it will get. You matter more than a job and so does your family, so put your health first, don’t think about it, just go for it.