Member Spotlight - Steph Swenson

MEMBER SPOTLIGHTIn the twenty-second installment of our "Member Spotlight", we're featuring one of the most consistent members we have ever had. And you know how much we preach consistency over everything else... well she's got that nailed! She's also a Super Teacher and a Super Mom, and those two roles come out every day after class as she's leaving and reminds us to "Make good choices!" And having Steph at the SHOP is definitely one of the best choices we've made!

Steph Swenson

First, give us a little background on yourself.

I grew up in a northwest suburb of Chicago. I went to the University of Missouri for college, where I met Dee on a blind date when we were 20. We have been together ever since. After Mizzou, we lived in Kansas City, Bloomington, IN and New Zealand before we moved to Corvallis thirteen years ago. I taught middle school math teacher for 22 years. This year, I am mentoring secondary teachers in Corvallis. I love teaching and I love my new job as a teacher mentor!

We have two kids, Amani and Hirut, and a dog, Barley. Amani and Hirut are both in 6th grade and we are super busy with all of their sports. Amani loves cross country, basketball and track. Hirut loves soccer, basketball and track. They want to start coming to the SHOP this summer.

What got you started and how long have you been at the SHOP?

Lex and Lon encouraged me to try the SHOP. I was so nervous because I thought there was no way I could ever do CrossFit. I started in September 2017. I have been going Monday - Friday at 5:30 am ever since. I have only been to the 5:30 am class.

With what movement(s) have you seen the most progress?

Chinups, pullups, deadlifts, bench press, power cleans

What do you like to do outside the gym?

I love to hike with my dog and family, cook and cheer on my kids at their heaps of sporting events.

What movement(s) would you like to improve on in the next few months?

Squats and thrusters

Favorite place to eat in/near Corvallis?

The Dizzy Hen, Baguette, Aomatsu and Block 15

What advice would you give members just starting out at the SHOP?

Walk in the door! I will be your cheerleader! I cannot even begin to explain how nervous I was before my first class. Drew, Ray and Cody encouraged me and helped me understand each movement when I first started. Everyone is super supportive and it is SO MUCH FUN!

RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS

Favorite Book

The Girl on the Train and anything by Liane Moriarty

Favorite Movie

Empire Strikes Back, Aliens, The Princess Bride

Favorite Food

Sushi

Favorite Cheat Meal

Gelato

Favorite Exercise/Movement

Rowing, Deadlifts, Pullups, Sled Push

Least Favorite Exercise/Movement

Burpees, Thrusters, Strict Press

Something Others Might be Surprised to Learn About You

SportsCenter is my favorite show. I wanted to be an ESPN SportsCenter Anchor and went to Mizzou to study sports broadcasting. I learned quickly you have to LOVE writing to be a sports broadcaster, you can’t just love talking about sports. One of my journalism professors encouraged me to volunteer at a school because he thought I would be a good teacher.

Make good choices! ;)

Thank you Drew, Ray, Cody and Melissa!!!!!