How long have you been doing our classes?
7 months, but I have done CrossFit for 3 years.
What made you decide to give 7 Mile Strength & Fitness a try?
I was actually following 7 Mile and Coach Chris on social medias for months, so I knew a bit about the facility, the different programming and classes options offered, and heard great recommendations from people too. We were looking for a place where we could match our fitness goals with our jobs schedules and lifestyle. We thought that 7 Mile could be that, so one day we decided to come visit! We had a nice chat with Dona and she introduced us to the team. We got along so well with everyone that the week after we became members!
What was the hardest part when you started out and how did you overcome that?
To learn/improve methods and techniques, because there are so many styles and methods in fitness/CrossFit world. But the coaches at 7 Mile are available and knowledgeable so they helped me with patience. Of course, there’s still a lot of work to do, my Coach for life Meredith is amazing and constantly supports me to achieve my goals.
Name one thing you’re really proud of (can be inside or outside of the gym).
I am very proud of my fitness/CrossFit evolution in general. I started 3 years ago, and I couldn’t do most of the movements as prescribed (push-ups, pull-ups, weightlifting, double unders, etc.). I started from zero, worked consistently and today I can’t believe how far I got!
Who’s more competitive, you or Gabe?
Hahaha! I’d say Gabe! I’ve always been competitive, but he is way more! Even if we agree it’s just a nice workout to train, I realize he is still competing! Even outside the gym. But I like it, because training together helps to push each other and keep the motivation.
Tell us a little bit about where you are from. The only Madagascar we’re familiar with is the kids movie! hahaha!
Wow, there’s so many things to say! To sum up, Madagascar is a mix between Africa and Indonesia, there are 25 million habitants and 90% of plant and animal species are endemic (including the famous lemurs). Oh and we have really long last names! I grew up in the capital Antananarivo, my mum has Indonesian origins and my dad has African origins. That’s why I really feel like in between the two cultures.
Fun fact : I am the only person with a Malagasy passport in the Cayman Islands (for now)!
If you could have one superpower, what would you choose?
Travelling in time! But backward only, so that I can live again some nice memories and redo some WODs.
Anything people at 7 Mile Strength & Fitness don’t know about you?
I was elected Miss Antananarivo in 2007.
Anything crazy on your bucket list? (bungee jumping, sky diving, hiking?)
My dream is to be the first woman to represent my country at the CrossFit Games one day, work is in progress… Also, I would love to dive with sharks in the Galapagos Islands!
What is your favorite WOD and why?
I really like WODs with double unders now, my favorite one is Annie; and I also love barbell workouts, DT is my favorite! I enjoy long workouts too because it requires consistency and patience.
What is your least favorite WOD and why?
I don’t like WODs with push ups. Mix them with pull-ups and I’ll cry.
What has been your biggest surprise about doing CrossFit?
Being able to do things I would have never imagined I could do a few years ago! I discovered how amazing is the human body and anything is possible if you work consistently to get it! CrossFit helped me also to balance better health and nutrition habits, and finally get self-confidence about my body.
Would you recommend 7 Mile Strength & Fitness to others and if so, why?
Yes absolutely! No matter what your age, background, level and goals are, you’ll find your place at 7 Mile. There’s an awesome community life too, the members are welcoming. The coaches are committed and professional and the programming is great, with quality equipment and varied class options.
Thank you, Val – we are so proud to have you as 7 Miler of the Month