We have so much appreciation for our community, and love to highlight one athlete each month that exemplifies hard work and commitment. Meet Sara Hardy! Sara is a true treasure and staple of the Terminus family. When she’s not using her awesome photography skills to capture memorable moments in the Terminus community, she’s busy encouraging others to keep working hard and showing up (just like her!). Let’s dive into her journey at Terminus a little further, and make sure to smile for her camera and give her a high five the next time you see her in the gym!
Q: How long have you been going to Terminus? What changes have you seen in yourself (physically or mentally) since joining?
I’m coming up on nine years at Terminus. I’m the fittest I’ve ever been, and can do things I never thought I’d be able to do – like butterfly pull-ups, handstand walks, and muscle ups. I hated snatches so much when I started CF that I almost quit over it, but now they’re my favorite move.
Q: How has your journey at Terminus helped you outside the gym?
I was always self-conscious about my body; CF has helped me gain perspective that I don’t need to be a perfect size 2; I can love my strong body and everything it allows me to do in life. I also sit at a computer all day, and CF helps keep from (1) losing my mind, and (2) becoming a total potato.
Q: Who inspires you at the gym, and how do they inspire you?
People that come in with the willingness to be awful at something, to finish last, and still come back the next day. We all started somewhere, and it’s really tempting to quit, but seeing the changes and progress in those that keep at it never gets old. I am also inspired by the early morning folk that work out – and leave – before the sun rises, but most importantly my 8am guys that I look forward to seeing each day and push me to be better.
Q: How would you describe what it’s like to be a part of Terminus?
It’s hard not to sound corny, but it’s such a special place: I’ve made so many amazing friends – people whose paths I never would have crossed in normal life; I’m grateful for all the coaches looking out for our safety and betterment; I love the positive environment they instill there. There are times mid-WOD that I question why I do this to myself, but afterwards I’m always (well, usually) happy that I showed up.
Q: Tell us about your first day of class at Terminus.
I was thoroughly overwhelmed; I remember seeing a bunch of Squat Mafia folks & thinking I was in over my head. Paulino was the first person to come talk to me, and I felt immediately welcomed. At my previous gym I was often the only one in class, so I was thrilled to have others to suffer with.
Q: What is something that we may not know about you?
I collect antique cameras
Q: What are your top 3 memories or proudest moments in CrossFit?
Getting my first pull-up:
- when I started CF I never imagined I’d ever be able to do them.
- Running a Spartan race with a bunch of Terminus peeps.
- Beach Brawl in Pensacola!
Q: Moving forward, do you have any short term or long term goals in the gym?
More consistent bar muscle ups, and to hit a 150# snatch.