Brantford Member of the Month May 2025 - Sam Beal

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Sam, I am currently a registered practical nurse and in university to become an RN. I have been married for 8 years. I have a 15 year old daughter and a 6 year old son. I started running in 2021 and fell in love with it! Weight lifting and workouts were all new to me when I started at Alchemy,. I'm proud to say this is the longest I've stayed committed and consistent to a gym, and I couldn't be happier!

What got you into crossfit?

My friend talked me into joining her at Alchemy in December 2023. I hadn’t known anything about crossfit prior to starting, so I was a bit nervous, but I’m glad I started.

What do you like about Alchemy?

I love the welcoming atmosphere at Alchemy! Being brand new to crossfit I had never done any of the lifts, forms or moves, so doing lifts like a clean or snatch for the first time was quite embarrassing haha, but everyone at Alchemy made me feel incredibly comfortable. The coaches, as well as the other members, are so happy to help with the proper techniques without any judgment and love to see each other succeed.

What has been your proudest moment at Alchemy?

My proud moment comes to mind when Eryl believed I could bench press 100 lbs even though I was doubtful, and I was able to do 3 reps at that weight.  

What are your Crossfit goals for the future?

I want to be more confident in my strengths and capabilities. I often doubt myself and choose lighter weights, thinking I can’t lift heavier. Moving forward, I want to push myself to confidently increase my weight without fear of failing.

If you could design the perfect workout, what would it include?

My perfect workout would include front squats, back squats and cleans.

What's the biggest change you've seen in yourself since you started Crossfit?

The biggest change I’ve seen in myself is my endurance. When I started, I was able to do maybe 6 burpees in a row and had to modify a lot of the workouts and use empty bars.  Now, I can do 30+ burpees in a row, complete most of the workouts within the time frame and add weights.

When you're not at the gym, what's your favourite thing to do?

My favourite thing to do is read. I love getting lost in a good book. Last year, I also started working on my bucket list of hiking all 63 US national parks. I have visited 8 parks so far.

What's your favourite local Brantford food spot?

One of my favourite spots to eat is The Everest Grill. They have the best butter chicken!