Elena

Movement has always played a huge role in my life. I grew up as a competitive gymnast. My favorite part of gymnastics was always the conditioning; I loved moving my body and improving my strength and fitness. As a kid, I enjoyed running, biking, and doing P90x videos with my dad. Heading into college, I majored in Health and Exercise science because of this love for movement and a desire to learn more. I started CrossFit shortly after. 

My favorite part about CrossFit is having the opportunity to constantly learn new things and to challenge myself on a daily basis. I’ve been a part of several great gyms by this point, but my favorite thing about CrossFit Raid is the fun atmosphere and the welcoming community. You can tell everyone has genuine connections here and you’ll always see a great majority of the class stay after to chat with one another. I think that speaks volumes!

My favorite movements to do are toes-to-bar and handstand walks. My favorite movements to coach are any lifts: whether it be as “basic” as the squat, or as complex as the snatch. 

I think daily physical activity, cardiovascular training, and resistance training are all critical for our overall health. Many people are scared to enter gyms and intimidated to get started with a fitness routine. My favorite part of coaching is taking someone with little experience and teaching them how to move their body properly. Seeing a newcomer slowly gain confidence and ownership over their movement is so fulfilling! Our bodies are made to move, and I love helping others discover that.