Mary Stranik Anderson

Please tell us a little bit about yourself?

Brian and I were married in July 2014, we have four kids Alison 25, Lauren 22, Erica 20 & Cooper 15. I lived in Apple Valley MN for 20 years and moved to Medina a year ago. Brian and I are both in Information Technology. Brian is my marathoner and I enjoy watching him cross that finish line. We love to travel and just hang out with our kids.

 When and why did you start doing CrossFit?

I started CrossFit in September 2013. When I moved from Apple Valley I left all my workout friends and I missed my workout friends.

What made you decide to come to CrossFit SISU?

I had done a few CrossFit classes in Apple Valley so I thought I would give it a try.

What were you doing before and what apprehensions did you have before starting CrossFit?

I was doing Boot Camp at Lifetime Fitness in Lakeville.  I was very intimidated about starting CrossFit, being fifty-one I had no idea how I was ever going to keep up to the twenty & thirty something’s.

What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit SISU Intro class?

My first class was a Butt Camp in September 2013, held outside, eighty degrees, humid, sun beating off the black asphalt. I thought this is nothing like the CrossFit classes in Apple Valley and I thought I am not sure I am ever going back.

 How has being at CrossFit SISU enriched your life outside of the box?

I always said I work out to support my eating habit. I did the Nutrition Challenge last year; I have learned how important nutrition is to your workout. My family now eats a great deal of Paleo meals and every time I have a glass of wine I still think 5 points.

Please share any special memories or achievements during your time at CrossFit SISU?

My favorite memories are doing the Mud Runs with my CrossFit Friends. We did two this year and we were head to toe mud!

I always had a fear of box jumps and one day JJ came over to me and said you have the strength in your legs just jump and I just jumped.

 What advice would you give to a person thinking about joining our SISU Community?

 Working out at SISU is more than just going to the gym, it is working out with friends that help you achieve your goals.

 Favorite WOD?

I don’t per say have a favorite WOD; after every WOD I always say there have been worse.

Secret Ninja exercise is?

Dead Lifts

 My not so secret sucky is?

Burpees

 My favorite cheat meal is?

Anything with Carbs