December Athlete of the Month

Congratulations to Kate Owens for being named the December Athlete of the Month. Kate has a great work ethic, has been very consistent at the gym, and has taken some great steps to improve the nutrition side of things. We appreciate how Kate is willing to try, learn, and implement new things. Thank you Kate for making our gym a better place!

1. Please tell us about yourself.

I grew up in New Jersey and moved to Colorado to go to CU – Boulder. After working at Lockheed Martin Astronautics, I went to CSU vet school and earned my DVM and MBA. I met Scott on summer break from vet school in Snowmass Village. We got married and lived in Ft Collins until I finished school and then returned to the valley. I started my mobile vet practice after Riley was born. 4 years later, I bought Valley Vet Hospital in Rifle at the same time that Parker was born. This year, I have started working as a veterinary practice broker. Last month I sold Valley Vet and am focusing on practice brokerage and being home with my family.

2. When did you become a member at Defiance West? 4 years ago

3. What made you join Defiance West and why do you do it now? I joined to get back into shape after having Parker. I continue today because I feel so much better physically and mentally when I consistently work out. I also love the sense of community within the gym.

4. What were your thoughts after your first workout? I am going to puke and die.

5. What is your athletic background? I played tennis throughout my childhood. I played varsity tennis, winter track, and lacrosse in high school. Now I prefer skiing, hiking, and mountain biking with friends.

6. What is your favorite movement or workout? Front squats or back squats

7. What is your least favorite? Burpees and running

8. What has been your favorite or proudest moment since joining? Winning Athlete of the Month!

9. How has Defiance West changed your life, lifestyle, and level of fitness? I eat much cleaner and have improved my overall health. I have lost weight and inches and am so much stronger.

10. What are your fitness goals for this year? Improve my endurance, make the 500 club, and complete a Spartan race in June.

11. What is something most people don’t know about you? I am a certified SCUBA Dive Master and have played the piano since I was 5.

12. What advice would you give to people looking to get started at our gym? Just do it! Find a friend that will hold you accountable and go together. Everyone at the gym is so helpful and kind. All the workouts can be tailored to any fitness level, so there is no excuse to not start!