COACHING INTERN - NADINE NEL

1. Tell  us  a  little  about  yourself  -  what  you  do,family  hobbies  outside  crossfit,  nicknames etc

We came to Australia from South Africa almost 8 years ago. I decided it was time for a career change after 10 years of being a Software developer and am now studying Clinical Exercise physiology through QUT. When I have spare time I like to cook, sew and read. One of my favourite things to do is exploring some of the amazing beaches and nature that our area has to offer with my husband, Rob, and the kids, Ethan and Hannah.

2. How  long  have  you  been  doing  crossfit  andwhy  did  you  start?

I have been a Crossfitter for 6 years now. I had picked up 20kg when having kids and after losing 60% of that going to fitness first the weight loss was stagnating and I was getting bored of the routine. A quick google search peaked my interest. At first it was very overwhelming, but as I learnt more and became stronger I got hooked.

3. Tell  us  what  a  general  day  in  your  life  looks  like.

CRAZY but I love most of it. Hubby works long hours in the city so I have to do most things for the family. Mix in full-time studies as well as trying to stay as healthy as I can and learning more about my passions, then 'time' (or I should say task) management becomes very important.

4. What  is  the  reason  you  want  to  coach  people crossfit?

There is nothing that amps me up more than watching others do something that they thought was impossible. That includes newbies learning new skills as well as runners smashing out pullups or someone that used to have very limited mobility performing an awesome snatch. And of course we can't ever forget the lifting PB's!! I feel that Crossfit is a very balanced exercise methodology and has improved so many other aspects of my life, that I want to help others experience the same.

5.  Why  do  you  think  you  will  make  a  great  coach?

I completely embrace the fact that we are all at different stages and on different journeys with our health and everyone deserves guidance and encouragement to achieve their personal goals. The most important thing to me is that we enjoy the process and have fun, not see exercising as a chore but an hour where we are able to improve ourselves (or sometimes just work through it) with awesome company beside us.

6.  What  is  the  best  advice  you  have ever received?

Embrace the uncomfortable - that's how we grow and learn.

7.  What  would  you  say  to  anyone  startingcrossfit?

Just keep going - things will eventually feel more familiar. Apparently frustration is the stage right before breakthrough ;)

8.  Whats  you  favourite  movement?

Squats and pullups, although I get the most satisfaction out of a decent lifting session in that moment when something you've been working on just clicks.

9.  Whats  your  favourite  meal?

I absolutely love sushi, but if we have to go for a healthier option I'd say nando's paella-style chicken and rice. So quick, easy and tasty!

10. Tell  us  something  we  wouldnt  know  about  you

I used to run a cupcake business in South Africa 😮

11. Give  us  your  favorite  quote/mantra  to  live  by. 

"Live, love, matter" It's simple, but helps to keep me on track - Enjoy what we do, love immensely and make a difference to the world.