Tristana & Laura – SISU Featured Athletes

Please tell us a little bit about yourself?

Tristana – I am a singer – for fun now but it was my profession for most of my adult life. Now, I work part-time as a Special Education Paraprofessional at Excelsior Elementary. I’m a former gymnast and dancer. I also love to snowboard. I grew up in Orono, went to college in Boston, lived in NYC for a short time and in Los Angeles for 15 years. My wife, Laura, and I decided to move back to Minnesota three years ago to be near my family and raise our son, Tegan, now seven, here in Excelsior. Laura and I have been together for 16 years. What????

Laura – I am a producer of independent films. I have worked in the entertainment industry for over 16 years. I started as an entertainment attorney, then morphed into film finance and finally into film production. I am not from anywhere in particular – we moved around a lot growing up. I’ve lived in 9 different cities during my life!

When and why did you start doing CrossFit?

Tristana & Laura – We did CrossFit for a year when we lived in Los Angeles and really liked it. It took us 3 years to get back to it. We’ve been at CrossFit SISU approximately 3 months (in February). We like the variety of the workout and the commaraderie in the Box.

What made you decide to come to CrossFit SISU?

We live a couple blocks away. Close proximity to the gym guarantees you go often!

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

Tristana – I was a marathon runner until I started feeling the ill effects on my body. I stopped that altogether and started doing a lot of yoga. Then, I realized I had lost all of my cardio stamina. I wanted to find a blend. Now I do CrossFit 3-4 times a week and Yoga 2 times a week.

Laura – Pretty much nothing. I was fooling myself saying I was going to Lifetime 3-4 times per week. But there was no challenge to my time there.

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

Oh lord we’re going to be sore!! It was intense on our bodies but we were prepared. The people were so friendly and welcoming.

What’s the greatest benefits you see so far since starting at CrossFit SISU?

Tristana – I feel stronger. My arms and legs are becoming more defined. Although at the end of each workout, I almost always feel I’ll vomit from exhaustion and lack of oxygen to my brain, I’m fairly certain my cardio health is improving. Plus the emotional benefits from the endorphines are essential to keeping me sane.

Laura – I know that I am stronger and more fit. But the mental change is as important. I find when I am working out and challenging my body, I am more focused on eating better and taking better care of myself. The whole picture is the most important and rewarding.

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

Tristana – I feel more confident. I’ve also become good friends with some fellow CrossFitters with whom I also hang out with outside of the box.

Laura – I am more focused on working out 5 times per week. That includes trying to find a Box when I travel – a first for me. In the past, travel was a good excuse NOT to workout – but not now!

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

Tristana – During intro, Jason was describing the split jerk stance and used his SNL Mary Gallagher “Superstar” example. He was so animated and I quickly jumped on that. I thought, “Ok, he’s a nutcase. This place will do just fine.” As far as accomplishments, after just three months, I can climb the ropes and do handstand push-ups. Pretty awesome.

Laura – I can easily (or more easily!) bear crawl across the gym!

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

Tristana – Try it! Just remember, like anything, listen to your own body and mind. Moderation is a good thing. Although it’s fun to compete and push yourself, don’t get so caught up that you lose balance in life.

Laura – The community is as important as the workouts! And the variety of workouts keeps your body and mind off balance – in a good way!

Favorite WOD?

Tristana – Anything having to do with gymnastics.

Laura – 12 Days of Christmas SISU style!

Secret Ninja exercise is?

Tristana – Backhandsprings (now, at 43, preferably on a spring floor or trampoline)

Laura – Most exercises involving the bar!

My not so secret sucky is?

Tristana – Anything involving a squat. (Stop laughing) Seriously. Wall balls suck.

Laura – Anything that resembles a pull up!

My favorite cheat meal is?

Tristana – Chocolate. Ice cream. Alcohol. I cheat often.

Laura – Whiskey! But it’s not just a cheat!