October Athlete of the Month

Congratulations to Nancy McClew for being named the Athlete of the Month for October. Nancy consistently comes in the morning, she always work hard, she has done a great job of adjusting her workouts to fit her needs at the time, and she makes everyone feel welcome. Thank you Nancy for making our gym a better place!

1. Please tell us about yourself. I’m a transplant from Illinois. Came to Colorado for college (DU, then CU). Moved to GWS from Evergreen with my boyfriend & dog looking to improve our quality of life. I’m the Pharmacy Director @ Grand River Hospital. Love pretty much anything involving sports and the outdoors.

2. When did you become a member at Defiance West? Just over 2 years ago.

3. What made you join Defiance West and why do you do it now? I’ve always enjoyed athletics and was looking for a gym/class I could do before work and Stacy Pemberton suggested I check out Defiance West. I do it now because it gives me a sense of accomplishment and I continue to grow stronger.

4. What were your thoughts after your first workout? I can do this… (must have been “easy” movements).

5. What is your athletic background? I played sports throughout high school and played soccer in college.

6. What is your favorite movement or workout? I like cardio mixed with a strength movement. Movements we don’t do as often are fun too - like slam balls & pushing the sled.

7. What is your least favorite? Overhead squats or snatches!!! I find overhead movements difficult so I don’t like them as much.

8. What has been your favorite or proudest moment since joining? I can do 1 strict pullup.

9. How has Defiance West changed your life, lifestyle, and level of fitness? Defiance has introduced me to a group of amazing people! I’m stronger than I’ve ever been and feel good about how I work out (even if I have to modify). I never expected to learn about nutrition at the gym although I’ve improved my diet and I’m constantly modifying favorite recipes to make them healthier.

10. What are your fitness goals for this year? Healthy knees! I’ll be working to improve my kip swing.

11. What is something most people don’t know about you? I love soccer. The small town I grew up in (Granite City, Il) has several Olympian and World Cup players (all male). I was invited to try out for the Jr. Olympic soccer team before my freshman year of college. I didn’t make the cut although played on scholarship @ DU.

12. What advice would you give to people looking to get started at our gym? Take the leap. Everyone is so welcoming and helpful. Remember – it’s your workout, do what’s right for you.