Brantford Member of the Month October 2025 - Karen Nairn
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
I am a 57 year old mother of 2 amazing adult daughters, Leah and Dayna and a dog mom to Dexter, my 6 year old shih tzu cross.
I'm newly retired, I love to golf and spend time with family and friends.
WHAT GOT YOU INTO CROSSFIT?
My daughter Leah is a member in Hamilton. She forwarded me the Women's only invitation she received a few years ago and encouraged me to try it. She actually came to the first class with me.
WHAT DO I LIKE ABOUT ALCHEMY?
The coaches are amazing and so encouraging! I'm never going to be the fittest person but I feel stronger and healthier each day. I love how supportive and encouraging they are. I've also met some amazing new friends each class I attend and look forward to seeing them every class.
WHAT HAS BEEN MY PROUDEST MOMENT?
Being able to make the box jump! I broke my left foot a couple of years ago and I have had a fear of breaking it (or anything else) since. The box jump always scared me. I started with the lower blue box and was able to master it. I came into class one day and decided to try the box jump. Andrew was so encouraging when I said I wanted to do it. He set out some weights for me to start on and really supported me to do it. I was so proud of myself for actually doing it!
WHAT ARE YOUR CROSSFIT GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?
I've had some injuries to my body which set me back a bit. Taking the time to heal has tested my patience as well as decreasing weight.
My future goal is to keep gradually increasing weight and get stronger everyday. Consistency is key for me.
IF YOU COULD DESIGN THE PERFECT WORKOUT, WHAT WOULD IT INCLUDE?
Everyone knows I love the rower. Definitely rowing, sit ups and deadlifts. Burpees.....not so much!
WHAT'S THE BIGGEST CHANGE YOU'VE SEEN IN YOURSELF SINCE I STARTED CROSSFIT?
My heart rate recovery has drastically improved as well as my strength, lifting everyday things at home doesn't feel as difficult as it used to be. My energy has also definitely improved.
WHEN YOU'RE NOT AT THE GYM, WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE THING TO DO?
You will usually find me on the golf course, walking the dog or spending as much time with my girls as they will let me!
WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD SPOT?
I'm a coffee girl! My favourite coffee spot is definitely Monigram Coffee in Cambridge. The best coffee and breakfast cookies around!
