Brantford Member of the Month August 2026 Marianne Logger!
WHAT GOT YOU INTO CROSSFIT?
My journey truly began with my daughter, who has been passionately training in CrossFit and Hyrox for years. She was always encouraging me to give it a try, which led me to discover ACF right here in Brantford. The turning point came in December 2025, when I traveled to Vancouver to watch her compete in a Hyrox event. Seeing athletes of all ages and fitness levels push their limits was deeply inspiring, and it gave me the final push to fully commit to this journey for the long term. I’m incredibly grateful for her encouragement and for finding such a welcoming local community at ACF.
WHAT DO I LIKE ABOUT ALCHEMY?
Without a doubt, it’s the incredible coaches and supportive community. If it weren't for the coaches' continuous guidance and patient encouragement, I might have given up early on. Alchemy truly lives up to its motto, 'Love Your Workout.' I thoroughly enjoy the classes, the team, and my fellow members—everyone is so welcoming and positive. I especially appreciate that coaches offer tailored options during workouts, allowing me to build strength safely at my own pace with the goal of eventually executing the exercises as prescribed.
WHAT HAS BEEN MY PROUDEST MOMENT?
It’s hard to pick just one because so many small victories have felt truly monumental to me—from getting up off the floor without help and sprinting during the beep test, to achieving single unders, pushing heavy sleds, and running 200 meters non-stop! To be honest, in retrospect, competing in Friday Night Lights was a proud moment because at the time I had no clue what I signed up for. LOL. If I had to choose, the moment that truly choked me up with gratitude was the first time I was able to hold a dead hang for more than a split second! It was only about five seconds, but it felt like a lifetime! It reminded me that every bit of progress counts. I’m deeply grateful for the journey so far; while there are still things I can't do yet, I show up each day with the belief that I will get there. To me, focus on the effort comes first, and the personal transformation naturally follows.
WHAT ARE YOUR CROSSFIT GOALS FOR THE FUTURE?
The sky's the limit! I’m focused on leveling up my strength and mastering every stage of the Hyrox circuit with total confidence. A lofty goal perhaps, but still a goal. My absolute dream goal is to take on a future Hyrox competition with my daughter. Shared moments like that are what drive me every single day.
IF YOU COULD DESIGN THE PERFECT WORKOUT, WHAT WOULD IT INCLUDE?
Definitely a combination of weights and cardio (though I’m always happy to trade the running for something else!). As the years go by, keeping up our strength and heart health becomes so vital for everyday life. That’s what keeps me motivated to show up—I want to stay strong and energetic, keep my independence, and run around with my grandson! It’s never about perfection or how fast I can do it; it’s just about showing up, making the effort, and enjoying the life I'm building strength for.
WHAT'S THE BIGGEST CHANGE YOU'VE SEEN IN YOURSELF SINCE I STARTED CROSSFIT?
It’s hard to choose just one, but the real transformation has been rebuildling my strength from the ground up. Following my hip replacement in early 2025, I felt incredibly vulnerable—my hip felt weak, climbing stairs without a railing was scary, and standing on one leg felt out of reach. To go from feeling that fragile to feeling capable again has been a humbling journey. Every single week I can feel myself getting stronger and steadier, whether I'm in class or out on the golf course. It’s been an empowering reminder that progress takes patience, but every small victory counts.
WHEN YOU'RE NOT AT THE GYM, WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE THING TO DO?
A little bit of everything! I love golfing, curling, playing pickleball, cooking, and catching up with friends. My ultimate favourite, though? Traveling and making memories with my daughter and grandson! The best part about getting stronger is that our travel bucket list just keeps growing. Next destination, polar bears!
WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE FOOD SPOT?
I’m a huge foodie at heart, and while I love cooking my own meals, our local food scene has some absolute gems you just have to try! First up is the Brantford Farmers Market—a total favourite of mine. Do yourself a favour and get the fully loaded Jamadian Patty (foodie tip: make sure you’re sitting down when you take that first bite, it's that good!). If you're craving classic comfort food, you can't beat a fully loaded sausage from the cart outside Canadian Tire paired with a side of Stan’s fries. And when it’s takeout night? Sushi on Fennell on Charing Cross is my absolute go-to!
