Brantford Member of the Month June 2025 - Gemma Bristow

Tell us about yourself!

Hello! I’m Gemma and I’ve been coming to Alchemy for almost one year now.  I live in St. George with my husband Ray.  We have two beautiful daughters, Isla and Jade, as well as our pets, Ranger and Pepper.  I’m a paramedic working for The Region of Waterloo for the past 19 years.  

What got you into crossfit?

I initially began CrossFit to get back in shape so I could pass a physical test at work for a team that I was interested in.  My plan was to just come for a few months (or however long it took me to pass the test) This gym grew on me quickly though so I decided to stay :)

What do you like about Alchemy?

I love the schedule at Alchemy.  There are so many class times to choose from each day which makes it hard to come up with an excuse not to workout.  The coaches and members are so kind and welcoming.  Everyone is quick to include the newbies in partner and group workouts.  You get comfortable and feel supported when you don’t know what the heck you’re doing at first.  I love how this gym is always celebrating their members somehow.  Birthday burpees, pictures, t-shirts and other gifts to acknowledge your commitment and success. The regular check ins from administration staff to see how it’s going or to congratulate you on a milestone or achievement really make you feel valued and special.  

What has been your proudest moment at Alchemy?

My proudest moment at Alchemy was finishing the nutrition challenge.  It was the first time I have stuck to something so strictly and I had some great results.  

What are your Crossfit goals for the future?

Two of my CrossFit goals are to be able to do unassisted pull-ups and climb to the top of the rope.

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

My perfect workout would be circuit style with lots of different stations.  Even when it’s hard I find these workouts go by fast when you’re continuously moving to the next thing. Something like… 2 rounds, 1 minute for each exercise, 3 min rest between rounds.

Pushups, box jumps, farmers walk, burpees, wall balls, short run 

Anything but the assault bike.  I hate it!!!!

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

The biggest change I’ve noticed since starting at Alchemy is my energy levels.  The morning workout starts my day off right and I feel energized for work, running the kids around or whatever the day brings.  

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

When I’m not at work or the gym, I’m usually shuttling my kids around town or at the dog park with Ranger.  We love camping, beach days, paddle boarding, hiking, biking and being outside as much as we can.  

What's your favourite local Brantford food spot?

Our favorite local food spot, although in Brant county and not the city, is The Dragon in St. George.  Everything on the menu is good, my favorite is the Cajun chicken and shrimp fettuccini. They have a great patio with regular live music.