Ashley is PUSH511's October CrossFit Member of the Month!
Ashley has been a regular member of PUSH511's group CrossFit classes since she joined nearly one year ago! Since day one, she has brought a smile and positive energy to class, even during the most challenging workouts. This is why the PUSH team thought nominated her as Member of the Month:
Ashley’s always up for a challenging workout no matter which hour she comes in for. Always has a smile on before, during, and even after the workouts. She is full of energy and it’s contagious whenever she’s in class so it’s been great having her around.
Ashley loves to work out, she joined PUSH511 on Nov. 30th and made the Committed Club in December and every month since then! Usually with 20+ classes per month. Yes, she will take the Thursday 5:10 pm CrossFit class, then attend Bootcamp. She always tackles a workout giving it her all plus with a smile. If you ever have the chance to do Abmat sit-ups next to her, she claps each rep, it is contagious and you will start doing it as well.
Ashley was like a part of the family from day one. She has such great energy and lifts those around her. She works hard and challenges herself, has great technique, and regularly crushes workouts. We're so happy to have her as a member!
Now, let's get to know our October Member of the Month!
When did you start CrossFit? Since Spring 2013. I took a hiatus during COVID but then joined PUSH last December and I’m so happy I did.
What's your fitness background? I’ve always been active - playing tennis, and volleyball in my younger years/college. During that time, I became addicted to fitness, often attending 3-4 group exercise classes daily.
What’s your favorite CrossFit movement? Squats, Lunges, Wallballs
What’s your least favorite movement? Box jumps and deadlifts. I have a traumatic experience with box jumps---16 stitches!--- and I tend to injure myself with deadlifts, so I try to approach things with caution.
What do you do for work? I am a pharmacist by training. I spent several years working at Hopkins as a clinical infusion pharmacist, specializing in patient care and medication management. Currently, I work as a Regulatory Project Manager with the FDA, focusing on psychiatric drug approvals. In this role, I ensure that new and investigational medications meet safety and efficacy standards while navigating the regulatory landscape.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your family. I love food and enjoy trying new places to eat, traveling, and staying active while exploring the world. I live just a few blocks away with my husband and our foster-fail dog, who adds so much joy to our lives---though he’s always wary of stranger danger, so he won’t be visiting the gym anytime soon. =P
Tell us something we don’t know about you! I love cooking and trying new recipes! I make pretty good homemade pasta and pizza and I’m always up for a culinary challenge!
How has CrossFit affected your life outside the gym? CrossFit has really changed my life outside the gym by helping me make lasting friendships and boosting my confidence. The community vibe keeps me motivated and makes tackling challenges feel easier, plus it’s made my social life so much more fun!
What do you enjoy most about PUSH? Great coaches and an inclusive, friendly community. They create an encouraging atmosphere that makes every workout enjoyable!
What tips would you offer someone who is just getting started with working out? It’s hard not to get competitive, but remember not to compare yourself to others. Your fitness journey is unique, so have fun and celebrate your small victories!
What's your favorite song to work out to? (Playlist) Big Bootie Mixes
What's your favorite restaurant? In Baltimore – Marta, Clavel, Thames Street Oyster House, Samos
Who's your hero (real or fictional)? My dad (I know, it’s cheesy!), but he’s truly inspiring—he fled Vietnam during the war, leaving on a boat with nothing. His resilience and determination have always motivated me.
What does your frequently used emoji tab look like?
Words to live by or favorite quote? "Enjoy the little things in life" is a wonderful reminder to appreciate the small moments that bring joy and fulfillment. It encourages us to be present and find happiness in everyday experiences!
What's your favorite travel spot? The Galapagos Islands
If you could win an Olympic gold medal for any sport, real or fake, what would it be? Gymnastics
What's your hidden talent? Finding something—anything—to trip on. LOL.
What are your top five favorite movies?
- Lilo and Stitch
- Love Actually
- Up
- 10 Things I Hate About You
- The Grinch
