Danae has been nominated for August’s member of the month because of her family’s example that all people can do fitness no matter what age, her commitment to the gym and lastly because her husband thought she would be a great choice!

Tell us a little about yourself:

I work for Avel eCARE (formally known as Avera eCARE) for the past 10 years as a licensing and credentialing specialist, meaning I get all medical staff their state licensure in the service line they work for and the physicians the privileges they need to work in all of the hospitals that eCARE provides service to. I am married to John and we have three daughters; Arabella 12, Adeline 8 and Anniston 5. We have a dog Rocket who we adopted in January and a cat Izzy.

How & when did you get introduced to Crossfit and what made you want to continue coming?

I started CrossFit in January of 2017 at FAF. John had been going to FAF for a couple of months and knew I was frustrated in trying to lose the baby weight after having Anniston. John knew that I would like it but, I thought I should be in shape before starting CrossFit (yes I was that person). I also was very nervous about staring because I was so out of shape and overweight from having a baby. That first class I felt so welcomed and accepted. It felt good to be pushed in a workout! I was hooked after that first class and now they can’t get rid of me (sorry, not sorry Brandon).

What’s one goal you’re really proud of accomplishing since you started CrossFit?

My self confidence. I would have never had the confidence to ever do a workout in a sports bra especially after having three kids. It’s taken a lot of time and work but I have become proud of how my body looks and moves now.

Do you feel like aspects of your time in the gym actually carry over into the rest of your life? If so, how?

Yes, of course. I have more energy and endurance to play with my girls and get daily tasks done without feeling too tired. I know that I am stronger which has made a difference when I have had to help John out with moving something big and heavy.

If you could bring back a fashion trend, what would it be?

Pegging or rolling the bottom of the jeans! I was really good at that.

Finally, what do you love most about Phos?

Of course I appreciate all of the coaches especially dealing with all of my dumb questions. Most importantly, I really appreciate all of the friends and relationships that I made at the gym. They are genuine relationships that go outside of the gym that I am extremely grateful for.