Name: Anna King
Age: 45
Joined Rocktown CrossFit: September 2017
Where are you from or where do you live around here?
We moved from Bath County to Harrisonburg when I was 6. I’ve been in or around Harrisonburg ever since.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I’ve been married to my husband Joe for 19 years, we have two kids, Zoe who is 14 and Keagan who is 5.
I have a degree in Equine Science and Riding from Johnson and Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. I’ve competed in Hunter/jumpers, dressage, and completed a 50 mile endurance ride. Eventually I became a professional fox hunter/whipper/huntsmen/kennel man, maintaining a kennel of 40 hounds.
For the past 18 years I’ve worked for the Town of Bridgewater. The first four years in landscaping and currently as a Class 1 Waterworks Operator, producing safe and clean drinking water for the town. And no, I am not a turd herder working wastewater!
What got you started at Rocktown CrossFit?
I secretly stalked CrossFit for about a year before I started. Watching anything I could find on YouTube about it, wishing I was brave enough and fit enough to try it. Then Keagan came along and he is all energy all the time. I figured I’d try it, so maybe I could keep up with him!
When or what was your "CrossFit Moment" - the moment that you really felt pushed or felt like you really accomplished something?
Everyone was talking about the Open and how everyone should experience it at least once. So I did the 2018 Open and got my first pull-up! Another Open I was able to bust out 50 Double Unders! The feeling of the Open is truly magical! It can also be very defeating and humbling- so many no reps!!
What are your goals for CrossFit? Why do you do CrossFit?
My goals are always changing, but I’d say I just want to see what my body is capable of. How much I can ask of it, and how long it will continue to deliver. It seems as though the more you ask and receive, the more you want.
What do you think is special about Rocktown CrossFit?
Oh boy- there isn’t enough space or words to describe why I think Rocktown is beyond special. This community of people is truly amazing. Lauren, Nate, and all the coaches have cultivated a place of growth, respite, tears, laughs, smiles, and life long friendships.
From quarantine, with a borrowed barbell in my garage to now, The Rock has been my saving grace in so many ways.
What are your favorite movements to do in a workout? What are your least favorite? Why?
My favorite movements are snatches, heavy back squats, squat cleans, wall balls and rowing. I definitely have a love hate relationship with thrusters, burpees and running.
Free write - whatever you feel like you want to share.
If 2020 had a theme song it’d be “Ironic” by Alanis Morissette. I have never felt stronger or healthier then I currently feel. I’ve been putting in the time at the gym and working on my nutrition with Katie.
Ironically, the day I received the email about being Athlete of the Month, is the day I had three biopsies done. Only to find out I have Stage 1 breast cancer, in both breasts.
While we all are doing the right things and look good on the outside, you have no idea what’s happening on the inside. So please, get all the checks. Mammograms, physicals, bend over and cough, whatever it is, DO IT!
I’m currently waiting on the results of a few more tests before deciding my course of action. Lumpectomy with radiation or a double mastectomy. Whichever one it is, it’s just a pothole in the road. I’ll still be in the back doing a million squats, until I’m healed and able to throw some weight around with all of you again.
I remember the first day Anna walked into The Rock. She was shy, nervous and wanted to meet new friends. She was quickly adopted and taken in by the 9am "mom squad" as they all learned they had children the same age and similar interests.
Fast forward a few years. She's class hopping all over the place and bringing her laugh and contagious smile with her. Over the past few years, it's been awesome to watch Anna transform from the shy and timid athlete to the one that secretly loves LB to gently nudge her to increase the weight on her barbell. She's loves lifting and watching her confidence increase as she's built this strength has been empowering as a coach.
As 2020 threw her (and everyone) curveballs, Anna remained consistent. It didn't matter if she was at home, at work, or could make it to the gym-she stayed CONSISTENT with her workouts...even when her life turned into one big curveball. Anna, your dedication to your health and fitness doesn't go unnoticed by your coaches. You're an inspiration to all, one heck of a hard worker, and will let NOTHING stand in your way.