Sarah Opatz
“I know CFM is a special place because no matter which class I go to, there is always a friendly face and someone will approach you and say hi. I’m an inclusive person by nature, and I’m really glad I found a box that shares that personal value. “
How long have you been a member at CrossFit Morgantown?
I joined in September, so about 9 months now.
Why did you join?
I was having fun doing at-home workouts during the pandemic, but I wasn’t seeing any improvements. I wanted to kick my fitness up a notch. I was also looking for a way to meet new people- CFM provided both those opportunities and more!
What do you love most about CrossFit Morgantown? / What keeps you coming back each month?
Our community. I know CFM is a special place because no matter which class I go to, there is always a friendly face and someone will approach you and say hi. I’m an inclusive person by nature, and I’m really glad I found a box that shares that personal value.
“Since joining CFM, I’ve learned more and pushed myself farther than I thought possible. I’ve also seen improved fitness impact my overall lifestyle- I sleep better, have more energy throughout the day, and just overall have more confidence. “
What is your current occupation? And/or what are some hobbies, clubs, groups, or activities you participate in?
I’m the academic adviser for the School of Public Health at WVU, so I support students during their time in college. Whenever I’m not working or at CFM, you can catch me reading at one of our awesome local restaurants or at home taking care of the 18 houseplants I have.
Who inspires you?
Jeff was a huge inspiration to me (as he was to everyone). He had a way of making any small victory feel like a lifetime achievement. Also… every single person at CFM that’s older than me and is in better shape than I am. You inspire me to keep fitness part of my lifestyle, and that if I keep at it one day I’ll be able to do the more advanced moves alongside you!
How has improved fitness impacted your life?
I’m starting to notice I’m much stronger than I realize. Since joining CFM, I’ve learned more and pushed myself farther than I thought possible. I’ve also seen improved fitness impact my overall lifestyle- I sleep better, have more energy throughout the day, and just overall have more confidence.
What’s one thing – either fitness related or not – you learned in the last month?
Shon coached a class two weeks ago where he instructed us to focus on locking our lats during deadlifts. Since incorporating this, I’ve hit several new deadlift PRs and my back doesn’t hurt nearly as much afterwards. Thanks Shon!
What would you say to someone you love to encourage them to try out CFM?
Every single move we do in class can be modified to fit your abilities. I’m often the person doing the “lowest level” version of the workout in class, I don’t feel like I’m holding anyone else back, and I still have a great sense of accomplishment at the end of the hour. Regardless of how you modify your movements, everyone is tired at the end of class. We might be doing different moves, but we suffer together and that brings us closer. Come in for a class and see how you like it!