Hamilton Member of the Month for August 2025 Michele Corbeil

Tell us about yourself
I recently retired after a 30+ year career in Higher Education which included working in First Year Transition/Student Life and Success. My life is in transition, I am loving the time and freedom to think deeply and redesign this next chapter in my life, it's a thrilling and wonderful stage in life. I care deeply about issues of equity, social justice, peace and improving the human condition. I find a sense of purpose and feeling of 'home' in a number of communities that share my values and interests. 

What got you into CrossFit?
I was inspired to 'check out' CrossFit in May 2022 after numerous conversations with a colleague (and Alchemy member) and witnessing the impact and transformation CrossFit had in the lives of two friends. I knew I needed something other than the things I had tried over many years but that hadn't stuck.  

What do you like about Alchemy?
There is so much I love about Alchemy. I like the variety and number of movements in the workouts. I appreciate the care and attention the coaches give: how they demonstrate proper technique, explain the movement, what muscles are involved and how the movement is of benefit, and how they offer alternative movements if you are sore or recovering from an injury.
The people who make up the community at Alchemy are so inspiring. Regardless of where you are on your fitness journey, the support and encouragement is positive and motivating. I also love the creative fundraising for the not-for-profit organizations the Alchemy community supports.

What has been your proudest moment at Alchemy?
Recently mastering the foot and hand work needed to climb the rope and showing up consistently over the past 3 years, recently increasing the number of days per week I workout to 5.

What are your CrossFit goals for the future?
Reaching the top of the rope, pull-ups, and changing my mindset on some movements that I don't like and avoid (ie: burpees.)

If you could design the perfect workout, what would it include?
Bench press for the lift, then some rowing and assault bike mixed with dead hangs, toes-to-bar, ring rows, a little rope climbing for the workout.

What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in yourself since starting CrossFit?
I've increased confidence and belief in myself that I can actually do CrossFit. I've gained strength, which has made everything in my life easier (ie: taking care of the work comes with owning a home.) I've improved many health metrics and am living the adage,  "movement is medicine."

When you’re not at the gym, what’s your favourite thing to do?
Spending quality time with family and friends. I love being active...walking, cycling, kayaking, yoga and aquafit. Volunteering with my church community. I love to craft and knit, and enjoy curating/producing concerts, singing in groups/choir, and dancing of all kinds. This summer I am learning to tap dance.

What’s your favourite local Hamilton food spot?
After a bike ride/aquafit class, Domestiique in Dundas. The soups and sandwiches, the hummus and the smoked salmon plate are delicious. Dinner out, Bangkok Spoon Deluxe in Dundas and Bardo on Locke Street