Athlete Profile: Marisa McArthur

Marisa McArthur

“I have to say as one of the longest active members it’s been fun to watch DCF grow. I remember when we were in the small garage and the 6am class consisted of about 10 people and they were all women. Times have changed. Congrats on your success.” -Marisa

What’s your athletic/fitness background?

Growing up I was always into sports and fitness. I spent a lot of time at basketball, tennis, and swimming camps during the summer. At age six, I started going to aerobics with my mom, and began weightlifting with my dad when I was 12. I swam and played basketball in high school and then played Division III basketball in college. After college, I continued going to the gym for aerobics, spinning and boot camp, and then I found CrossFit. Working out is a part of my life, when I don’t exercise it affects my mood, some might say I get cranky.

What was your first CrossFit workout and what did you think of it?

It’s been three plus years since I came to DCF and at that time, newbies were required to do a two-week foundations class. We started with a baseline test—I can’t remember how I did, but I know it was hard. What I do remember is the date I came in for my free hour, August 31, 2008, and my coach was Christy. We did so many wall balls and squats I couldn’t walk for a week; that’s when I knew I was hooked. I hadn’t been that challenged by exercise in a long time.

What’s been the biggest change for you since starting CrossFit?

I feel stronger because of the diversity of exercises we do and healthier by eating Paleo (100% Paleo 80% of the time).

What’s been your favorite DCF moment up to now?

My favorite moment is the one after I have completed the WOD. I feel a real sense of accomplishment–and relief that I survived. It’s always a good beginning or end to any day.

Least favorite CrossFit movement/WOD?

Buck Furpees!

Favorite CrossFit movement/WOD?

Wall balls and rowing.

When did you know you were hooked?

When Christy had me do so many squats I couldn’t walk for a week. I hadn’t been that sore from a workout in a long time. It made me realize that I was stuck in a workout rut and needed to make a change.

Any advice for people starting out –

First, everything in CrossFit is doable because you can scale the workout or movement to work for you. Second, always push yourself, it’s your workout, get the most out of it. Third, keep track of your workouts (weights, reps, etc.) and finally, work hard and have fun

Describe your favorite part about DCF?

My favorite part about DCF is the people. I look forward to working out because of the members and the coaches. We always have a good time.