Member Spotlight | Renovation CrossFit

In a new series, we will be spotlighting members. Continue reading below to learn more about our clients and Renovation CrossFit.

Jackie M.

Jackie has been a member at Renovation CrossFit for about six months. When she first began, she was the member who stood in the back corner working quietly as she watched. Over the last six months, we’ve seen her confidence grow in her abilities at CrossFit. She is a blast to have in class. And watch out…if there is any type of gymnastic-y movement, she is all over it! Her personality shines through and she is always the first to encourage others to do the hard things.

Here’s a bit more about Jackie.

1. Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?

I had always wanted to try CrossFit! I started this winter after moving to town and didn’t know ANYONE that was a member. I just called the number listed on the website, talked to Betsy, then showed up to a class that night! I’m so glad I did and found that I really enjoy CrossFit!

2. What’s your favorite style of workout?

I’m honestly just a fan of movement! I think the biggest appeal of CrossFit for me is the wide range of workout structures and demands; it’s really hard to get bored of it!

3. What’s your favorite move?

Anything that makes me go upside-down! Wall walks, handstand push-ups…you name it! All our barbell lifts are a close second though; they always s make me feel powerful!

4. What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?

Ugh…wallballs…. They’re humbling for me!

5. What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RCF?

Probably feeling like Livermore Falls has become my home. Sappy and cliché …but still true! It’s hard to come to a new town and get to know people outside of our work lives and family. RCF has given me that opportunity to expand my bubble and get to know this area of the world outside of my professional life!

6. What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?

The biggest benefit for me has been the community. Being new in a small town can feel so isolating, but all the coaches and members have been so welcoming and have made living here so enjoyable!! (THANK YOU!)

7. What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.

Folding laundry? Does that count?

8. What’s your favorite color?

Periwinkle!

9. What’s your favorite music to listen to?

I enjoy a little bit of everything, I think! Hard to pick just one genre.

10. Favorite thing to do when not at the gym.

Reading snuggled up with my puppy on the back deck.

11. Do you have any hobbies?

I try to keep myself busy with a variety of hobbies: reading, embroidery, exploring old cemeteries with Ben and Syl, hiking, surfing…the list goes on!

12. M&Ms or Skittles?

Skittles – extra points for the sour ones!

13. What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?

Mint Chocolate Chip!

14. Toiler paper – over or under?

My preference? Over. Since getting a puppy? Under.

15. What do you do for work?

I am a physical therapist. 😊

16. Tell us about your family.

I have an amazing significant other, Ben, and our sweet fur baby, Syl! Syl is a nearly nine-month-old golden retriever who keeps us busy and on our toes. Ben is also a physical therapist, and maybe one day he will grace us with his presence at the gym!

17. If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?

This is such a fun place to work out; there is no judgment, and this space is incredibly motivating. The emphasis on coaching good form and safe movement/mobility work makes it a really safe place to try something new and challenging!

18. If there’s anything else you’d like to add, please do!

RCF has a great community, and I’m so excited to have found a stellar group of humans to enjoy movement with! Thank you for giving me a space to unwind, to stop thinking critically and clinically, and just letting me enjoy being active.

Karen M.

Karen has been a member of Renovation CrossFit now for several years. She began exercising long before she joined us. As a member of the Masters class, she comes faithfully three days a week to workout. Many in this group of women have been with Renovation CrossFit since they first started coming to our original location. Yet their group has been together far longer than that. While they have had to move locations a few times for various reasons, it hasn’t stopped them from continuing to focus on their health and movement.

Here’s a bit more about Karen.

1. Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?

I decided soon after I retired that I needed to do something to keep active. It was a long and convoluted path. I started on Union Street and when that closed, we moved to the dojo in Jay before we ended up at the school with Betsy and crew.

2. What’s your favorite style of workout?

I really like the ones that happen by chance – picking a playing card, etc.

3. What’s your favorite move?

Wallballs (they remind me of my lacrosse playing granddaughter). I also really like ring rows.

4. What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?

I don’t think I have one.

5. What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RCF?

I know that I can get up off the floor without anything to hang on to.

6. What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?

See the answer to question #16 below.

7. What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.

Tailgaters

8. What’s your favorite color?

Blue

9. What’s your favorite music to listen to?

Folk music and elevator music

10. What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?

Anything but housework

11. Do you have any hobbies?

Reading, quilting, playing word and number games – either on the computer or (better yet) with friends.

12. M&Ms or Skittles?

Neither. Anything made with dark chocolate.

13. What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?

Tossup between Grapenut and butter pecan – depending on my mood.

14. What do you do for work?

Nothing! But when I did, I was a science teacher for 38+ years.

15. Tell us about your family.

Between us, my hubby and I have three daughters, five granddaughters, and four grandsons. Each daughter lives in a different one of the three northern New England states. Beth, in Maine, has two adult daughters. Barbara, in New Hampshire, has three boys ages 8 to 15. Nicole, in Vermont, has three girls and one boy, ages 3 to 22.

My early family history is as follows. I was the youngest of 10 but felt like an only child until I started school. I had 2-1/2 sisters and 3-1/2 brothers (think about it).

16. If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?

It will get you out of bed and the house three days a week and keep you from sitting with a cup of tea and reading until lunchtime. Seriously, you will feel better about yourself, do physical things you thought you couldn’t, and you may make some new friends along the way.

17. Toilet paper roll, over or under? Under, please.

Barb L.

Barb has been part of Renovation CrossFit since even before its inception. Her daughter, Tamara, used to teach Zumba classes and Barb used to go to those. When those classes became part of Renovation CrossFit, Barb followed along and realized she liked lifting weights more than dancing.

Her quiet strength shines out in every class. She’s always willing to try something new. Run with a weight vest? Sure! Try a new banded pull-up option? Why not! Her attitude is always positive. She gives every class her best effort.

Here’s a bit more about Barb.

1. Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?

I started going to the gym because Tamara thought it would be a good idea. Guess what? She was right.

2. What’s your favorite style of workout?

I like the chippers.

3. What’s your favorite move?

My favorite move is deadlift, but I also like any workout with a dumbbell or a kettlebell.

4. What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?

Burpees are awful and cleans.

5. What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RCF?

My posture has improved. I’m much stronger. Physically, I feel better.

6. What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?

I feel better mentally and physically. Everyone has been supportive. I love the 6am class. I do things I thought I couldn’t do. Sometimes I need a little push, but I get it done. I always feel better after the WOD.

7. What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.

Put it back from where you got it from.

8. What’s your favorite color?

Blue

9. What’s your favorite music to listen to?

Old country and 70s and 80s rock.

10. What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?

Reading and going for walks. This time of year I enjoy my pool.

11. Do you have any hobbies?

Reading and walking.

12. M&Ms or Skittles?

M&Ms

13. What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?

Cookie Dough

14. What do you do for work?

Factory work, but I just retired!

15. Tell us about your family.

I have four children: Amy, Darcy, Brian, and Tamara. I have five grandchildren: Bill, Marissa, Keegan, Bobby, and Nolan. And I have one great-grandson: Westin. I have a miniature dachshund named Sophie.

16. If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?

Come give it a try. You’ll love it. You’ll get a great workout while having some fun and laughs, too. There is a different workout every day. All the coaches are awesome. To me, it’s like having a second family. I love RCF.

Julie K.

Julie K. started working out at RCF bout eighteen months go. She started coming with a friend, and was part of the evening crew. Julie quietly stood at the back, focusing on the workout and form. She took feedback to heart and worked hard to improve her form and movement - always looking to get better with each workout.

Recently, Julie made the switch to the 6am class. She is now a mainstay at that time slot. She’s always up for a challenge and puts in full effort at every class.

Here’s a bit more about Julie.

1. Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?

I wanted to try something different! There is a gym in the town where I work, and I went there years ago. I thought about going back, but it is so crowded, and I literally know everyone there. It felt like people were watching or judging you as you work out. I always thought CrossFit looked hard, so I never tried it. Then my co-worker, who knew Betsy and Andrea, talked me into going with her. I’m glad I did because I keep coming back! I love it!

2. What’s your favorite style of workout?

Probably AMRAPs, but there aren’t any I don’t like!

3. What’s your favorite move/lift?

Deadlift or anything with a kettlebell

4. What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?

Burpees, but I couldn’t do these when I started. Now I’m doing them slowly!

5. What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RCF?

I now go to the gym usually 5-6 days a week and I see improvement in myself every day! I hated going to the gym before. Everyone at RCF feels like family, and they are there to encourage and help you. You don’t get that at a regular gym!

6. What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?

I feel good after the WOD. I am doing things I have either never done or haven’t been able to do in years. It’s an awesome feeling!

7. What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.

Nothing really

8. What’s your favorite color?

Purple

9. What’s your favorite music to listen to?

Rock and country

10. What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?

I like to take my dogs on short hikes around the area. I also like to hang out with my family and friends.

11. Do you have any hobbies?

I like to ski if that counts.

12. M&Ms or Skittles?

M&Ms

13. What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?

Black raspberry or chocolate

14. What do you do for work?

I work for Dave’s Appliance in Winthrop.

15. Tell us about your family.

I have two crazy dogs that keep me busy. There’s never a dull moment with them! Fenway is a six-year-old labradoodle, and his sister Cece is five. I don’t have any children, but my niece Shae just turned five months old. It has been fun watching her grow up!

16. If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?

It’s not as scary as it looks! There are options for every move where ever you’re at.

Emily C.

Emily Clemens has been a member of Renovation CrossFit for quite a few years. She started working out here while she was in college and now, she’s working as an RN right at local hospital. Emily loves deadlift days and really dislikes burpee days. But she still shows up no matter what with a smile on her face.

Here’s a bit more about Emily.

1. Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?

I started by coming to an “Intro to CrossFit” class because I wasn’t happy where I was physically and what I was doing wasn’t working. I didn’t know how much I would love it until my first class. It was actually terrifying to start, but I am so glad I did!

2. What’s your favorite style of workout?

1 rep max days are my fave. I also like a good 10 minute AMRAP.

3. What’s your favorite move?

Deadlifts always. I also love anything with a kettlebell.

4. What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?

Burpees.

5. What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RCF?

The community. I have gone through some of the toughest times in my life so far since being a member of RCF. There are times I have needed to take a break, and the gym and community are always there when I come back. For someone that really didn’t like the gym before, this one is straight up incredible and it’s all because of the coaches and people that make up the RCF community.

6. What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?

The mindset shift it has given me. I continually prove to myself that I can do hard things in the gym, and that directly transfers to things outside the gym as well.

7. What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.

Blaring music from motorcycles. Seems petty but it’s like nails on a chalkboard for me.

8. What’s your favorite color?

Purple

9. What’s your favorite music to listen to?

Oh – I have many…really depends on my mood. Rap, pop, heavy metal, 80s, 90s…One thing you will never catch me listening to willingly is country though.

10. What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?

Hiking with the hubs or taking Dutch for some long walks.

11. Do you have any hobbies?

Fishing, hiking, kayaking

12. M&Ms or Skittles?

Skittles

13. What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?

Black Raspberry

14. What do you do for work?

I’m a registered nurse currently working on a med-surg floor.

15. Tell us about your family.

I have a hubs, Nick, married 10 years this month! And my pup Dutch, 3 cats named Kitten, Little Kitty, and Gandalf plus 11 ducks.

16. If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?

We used to say, at the old place, the drive up the hill is the hardest step. This is true. It takes a lot to make the first step into a gym. But I will say, CrossFit is not as intimidating as you think it is. Nobody is expecting you to come in knowing exactly what to do or how it all works. There are options for every move, every workout, to meet you where you are! Just come hang out with us!

17. What else would you like to add?

When my niece, Frankie, was in the hospital the gym did “Deadlifts for Frankie.” It meant a whole lot to me and three years later it has been the most meaningful moment that has happened for me at RCF, even though I wasn’t physically there. Every deadlift day has become a Deadlift for Frankie day in my mind. Just a shining example of community. More important than an RX or a max weight. Love this gym.

Travis Tardif

Travis Tardif is the tall, quiet guy lifting a 400 plus pound deadlift in the back corner. He started coming to lift heavy things alongside his wife, Tamara, and their son, Nolan. Travis loves lifting odd objects like tractor tires. He also really enjoys watching and is now competing in Strongman competitions.

When he’s not at the gym, he can be found building things. In addition to building his own house from the foundation up, he also made us those really great boxes we have for box jumps. We also have him to thank for a lot of the work going on in our new space!

If It’s a lifting day and you need some help, don’t be afraid to approach Travis. He always has some great tips on how to move weight more efficiently.

Here’s a bit more about Travis.

1. Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?

My wife pressured me into it. I had just recently started working out again after a 15-year hiatus and CrossFit offered me things I couldn't/wouldn't do at home.

2. What’s your favorite style of workout?

I like anything low rep/high weight, or anything resembling Strongman movements, i.e. tire flips, sled pulls, etc.

3. What’s your favorite move?

Deadlifts

4. What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?

Cleans because I lack good wrist and elbow mobility. Also, anything with kettlebells.

5. What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RCF?

I didn't know how bad I felt until I felt better. Now I can feel the difference in energy and overall well-being when I haven't worked out regularly in a while.

6. What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?

It pushes me to do things I otherwise wouldn't want to do on my own. It also holds me accountable to push harder than I might at home.

7. What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.

That most people are stronger than they think they are, but aren’t willing to push themselves to find out.

8. What’s your favorite color?

That shallow tropical aqua blue ocean color.

9. What’s your favorite music to listen to?

Metal or classic rock

10. What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?

Read my bible, spend time with my family, soak in the hot tub, work on stuff around the house.

11. Do you have any hobbies?

Woodworking

12. M&Ms or Skittles?

Neither. I’m not a big candy guy.

13. What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?

Key Lime

14. What do you do for work?

I work in code enforcement for the city of Lewiston.

15. Tell us about your family.

I have a wife Tamara, a son Dom 15, a stepson Bob 14, and son Nolan 6. All are very active with sports and exercise. We also have a German shepherd named Avenger.

16. If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?

It's an incredibly supporting atmosphere here. Even if you don't think you need it, you need the community support to keep you accountable in your fitness and life goals Just try it! If you can push past that initial soreness phase, you will be amazed how much better you will feel, physically, and mentally.

Judy Farrington

Please let me introduce you to Judy Farrington. Judy is a long-time member of our Masters class, which is for older adults. Judy always arrives with a warm and welcoming attitude. She’s willing to try anything we offer in class and does so with a smile on her face.

Along with many of the members of our Masters class, Judy has been doing fitness classes for a long time. The class has moved locations numerous times as well as instructors!

Judy doesn’t let her age slow her down. It’s just a number after all! She enjoys many activities and makes sure her gym classes are a priority in her schedule.

Here’s a bit more about Judy.

1. Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?

I started coming to Renovation CrossFit after carrying on from a previous class. I really enjoyed the workout.

2. What’s your favorite style of workout?

I really like the TRX.

3. What’s your favorite move?

I like the dancing we do for the warmup. I really enjoy most of the moves we do in class.

4. What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?

I do have to be careful with weights because of a shoulder problem, so I guess that’s my least favorite.

5. What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RCF?

As for the big thing that has changed in my life since working out at RCF – I feel much better after a workout. I have also been getting good reports from check-ups with my cardiologist and PCP.

6. What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?

The biggest benefit is it’s nice socially to do this with others. It really makes you try different workouts that you might feel you can’t do.

7. What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.

I really don’t have anything that bothers me. I pretty much just go with the flow.

8. What’s your favorite color?

Purple/lavender

9. What’s your favorite music to listen to?

Country or 50s/60s

10. What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?

I go dancing a lot. I also play cribbage, have coffee with my friends, and I do love to eat out. I never refuse!

11. Do you have any hobbies?

I do lots of crafts, ceramics, silversmithing – all sorts of craft things. When my parents became ill and then my husband, I had to put crafting aside. I do like to have some R&R time, too.

12. M&Ms or Skittles?

I love M&Ms and chocolate of any kind! HAHA! Which I’m not supposed to eat much of.

13. What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?

I love ice cream and love most flavors. Grapenut is my most recent favorite. Recently my sister and I dug out my parents old ice cream maker and made homemade vanilla ice cream. It was delicious!

14. What do you do for work?

I have been retired for 21 years. I was a Guidance Secretary at Jay High School. I helped to get students ready for college and “this big world.” I really enjoyed the students. When I graduated from high school, I went to work at Livermore Falls Trust Company for 13 years.

15. Tell us about your family.

I have a son and daughter. My son and his wife live next door to me. My daughter lives in Italy presently. She works for a government contracting company. I have a granddaughter who lives in Lyman. She is a nurse. I have two sweet great-granddaughters as well. No furbabies at present. But I love cats and dogs. We had all kinds of pets when my kids were younger.

When my kids were growing up, we went camping all summer. We rented a cottage for fishing up north. We went ice-fishing in the winter. We went hiking. We went snowmobiling and did all the fun things for winter entertainment. We had a backyard pool for 33 years, which was enjoyed by many. We always had a pool full of nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors. I had the pool taken out after my husband passed away. We also traveled for a little bit after our kids graduated college.

16. If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?

I tell the gals who invite me to go to Silver Sneakers with them that it’s for “old people.” RCF really gives you more of a workout. I really like people, so I like the social aspect of class as well.

Nolan T.

Nolan T. has been attending Renovation CrossFit before he was even born! His mom, Tamara, was one of our original coaches when RCF first started. In fact, she was still teaching Zumba and Les Mills BodyVive classes while pregnant with the little guy!

From the beginning, Nolan has been coming to RCF. Before he was old enough to attend our Renovation CrossFit Kid classes, he would watch his mom and dad workout. Nolan loves coming to the gym especially on the days when we are having either Kid classes or Homeschool Co-Op.

Here’s a bit more about six-year-old Nolan.

1. Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?

Because my mom and dad do.

2. What’s your favorite style of workout?

Obstacle courses

3. What’s your favorite move?

Plate jumps and burpees

4. What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?

Bear crawls

5. What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RCF?

Moving to the new gym

6. What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?

It’s so fun to lift up heavy stuff with Joey and Emma.

7. What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.

When Devin Bryant doesn’t come!

8. What’s your favorite color?

Dark Blue

9. What’s your favorite music to listen to?

“I’m Still Standing” by Elton John

10. What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?

Playing basketball with my brother Bobby

11. Do you have any hobbies?

Drawing, playing with toys, or fishing at the river with my daddy.

12. M&Ms or Skittles?

Skittles

13. What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?

Cotton Candy

14. What do you do for work?

Whatever mom tells me.

15. Tell us about your family.

Mom, Dad, and the rest of our family, but also the Mancines…everyone is my family.

16. If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?

You can get so strong and it’s important to be healthy because Jesus wants us to be.

Kristen Carlson

Kristen Carlson is a mainstay at our 7:45am class. Although, she’s also been known to pop into the “Mom WOD” class at 9am on occasion. Kristen never thought she’d be a “gym person.” But since joining Renovation CrossFit in June of 2022, Kristen has found she loves it! She always brings a smile to class along with an attitude of being willing to try anything. Janet loves it because she now has a game partner!

Here’s a bit more about Kristen.

1. Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?

I needed something different. I was working from home and trying to motivate myself to workout at home, too. I was bored, and I knew the standard gym membership was not going to be enough. I wanted the push from group fitness but still have the ability to do strength training. RCF was the best of both worlds, and I was instantly hooked. I dropped in for one class and never stopped! I enjoy all of the workouts and like that no two days are alike.

2. What’s your favorite style of workout?

I’m a list person, so I love a good chipper!

3. What’s your favorite move/lift?

Anything with kettlebells, but I also love deadlifts and back squats.

4. What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?

Burpees are my least favorite move…ever!

5. What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RCF?

I’m a gym person! I still can’t believe it sometimes, but I truly enjoy it and have made it a part of my daily routine. If you hate the gym, you might just need to find the right gym!

6. What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?

The way I feel, mentally and physically. The workouts are fun and so are the people. Everyone has been so supportive and helpful since day one. I get a great workout and a few good laughs, too! I feel better when I leave and have learned I can lift a heck of a lot more than I ever thought I would.

7. What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.

Probably when my kitchen is a mess. I should be embarrassed at how much I clean and tidy up.

8. What’s your favorite color?

Green

9. What’s your favorite music to listen to?

I’m a country fan, 80s and 90s! And lots of Morgan Wallen.

10. What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?

I like to spend time with my family and friends.

11. Do you have any hobbies?

I love to cook. I find it very therapeutic and enjoy making food for people. I also love to side-by-side, snowmobile, boat, and spend time at my family camp in Eustis!

12. M&Ms or Skittles?

M&Ms for sure.

13. What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?

Soft serve twist with chocolate sprinkles is my go-to order.

14. What do you do for work?

I work for a healthcare technology company as an operations supervisor for Medicaid rebates.

15. Tell us about your family.

My husband Cason and I have been married for almost ten years and together for fifteen. We have two boys – Charlie (6) and Lincoln (4) who keep us very busy! We also have a yellow lab named Willow and a black lab named Nellie who add to the chaos!

16. If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?

You can have fun while working out! CrossFit can be intimidating but everyone is here to help and every move can be modified or adjusted. Every single person is at a different level. Just try one class and you will love it!

Tamara "T" Tardif

Tamara "T" Tardif has been a mainstay at Renovation CrossFit long before it was even known by that name. She was part of the coaching team back when RCF was known as Training Floor Fitness. She taught Zumba and Les Mills BodyVive – two classes we no longer offer. In fact, T went through the two-day training for BodyVive while pregnant with her second son!

T loves to lift heavy, and you can often find her working on her deadlifts. If deadlifts are programmed – she’s there! But her first love of Zumba often shines through. So, if she stops for a dance break – just join in!

Here’s a bit more about T.

1. Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?

I was one of the OG’s that started with Betsy forever ago.

She adopted me back when I taught Zumba…and she hasn’t

gotten rid of me since!

2. What’s your favorite style of workout?

I love “Chippers.” Also, anything outside! Tire flips, sled pulls,

and running are my favorite. I also love strength training

the most…next question. This one is too hard.

3. What’s your favorite move?

I can’t narrow it down, so in no particular order: deadlifts, back squats, dumbbell snatches, and, dare I say, wallballs?! Plus, all the things listed in the previous answer. I also have a pretty great air guitar/drums when a good song comes on during class. Queen anyone?

4. What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?

Cleans and burpees…hands down!

5. What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RCF?

The consistency of working out. I don’t even think about whether I “feel” like working out because it’s just part of my routine. I love that it’s something my family and I do together. Our youngest son has been coming since I was pregnant. It’s such a blessing that he’s literally growing up here!

6. What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?

The Bible Study and Homeschool Co-Op [but you don’t have to be a member at RCF to participate in either of those things!]. Our gym isn’t JUST a gym. We care about the overall wellbeing of the person and strive to support them holistically!

7. What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.

When Betsy uninvites me by programming cleans! 😊 Okay…okay…they’re getting better! I’m warming up to them after all these years!

8. What’s your favorite color?

Orange – they didn’t have it in the Rogue Bella Bars when I got my purple one!

9. What’s your favorite music to listen to?

Seriously all of it! If you know me, you know I bust into song whenever the moment hits!

10. What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?

Homeschooling Nolan or dates with Big T, tripes to the coast, bargain shopping, you name it…

11. Do you have any hobbies?

Probably my favorite thing to do is spend time in my garden while listening to all things Reformed Theology. I also enjoy cooking and learning new homesteading skills, which I feel are totally lost arts in today’s world.

12. M&Ms or Skittles?

Skittles!

13. What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?

Ummmmmm dude! That’s the toughest question yet! More often than not, I get a baby twist with rainbow sprinkles…because you know, I’m an 8-year-old kid at heart!

14. What do you do for work?

I have always had a heart for the WIC program. All told, I’ve worked for them, at least in some capacity, for over a decade. I also have my (RN) nursing license. I worked at MaineGeneral and the staff there will always have my heart. However, when the vaccine mandate went into effect, I decided to step away, which was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done.

15. Tell us about your family.

If you’ve crossed my path, you’re my family! My actual family, our CrossFit family, and my church family from Summit Faith Community. I also have a 7-1/2-year-old German Shepherd named Avenger!

16. If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?

A lot of people are intimidated by CrossFit but that’s because they don’t truly know what it is. My encouragement to you is to come and check us out. Functional fitness is very unique and has helped me do life better. I can stay in a squat position for hours in my garden. I can be more efficient in putting away an entire pallet of pellets by carrying two bags instead of just one. And, most importantly, I can run and keep up with my young children. I’m constantly learning and being inspired by the coaches and other members of RCF. You aren’t getting just a gym membership. You’re getting something that will quite literally enrich your life in ways you’d never imagine.

Dianna Kinch-Elia

Dianna Kinch-Elia is one of those members that is just simply a joy to have. She takes on any workout we give her and does so with style and grace. You may not realize it, but this grandmother of two not only does our Masters class but often shows up for regular CrossFit classes as well. She calls all the younger ladies in class “Spring Chickens” since they can get up and down so quickly. Meanwhile, she uses her wisdom to line things up, so she doesn’t have to get up and down quite so often!

Dianna started out as a regular in our Zumba classes (something we no longer offer) and stuck around when we transitioned to CrossFit. Her joy and enthusiasm are always welcomed. If she adds in a cha-cha here or there, we laugh and dance along!

Matching colors makes Dianna super happy! She was thrilled when the colored barbells showed up at the gym. She’s also big on having lots of options for weights when she does her workout.

Her strength and personality always shine through in all she does at RCF.

Here’s a bit more about Dianna.

1. Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?

I wanted to get in shape, and I thought…I’m 65, what am I waiting for…80? I could be dead by then. That’s ridiculous. I needed to get off my butt and do something NOW!

2. What’s your favorite style of workout?

Zumba is my favorite because I love to dance. Lisa Graves began me on this journey of physical fitness and she changed my life forever. She teaches Zumba in Sumner at the elementary school. However, CrossFit has given me the best results. One of my friends in Zumba, Jana Stevens, said that if I wanted to lose weight I should lift weights. She said, “Swear to God, it will work.” The choir began to sing. She was so right.

I have gained weight, but I have lost inches. In the two years I have been lifting all kinds of weights in CrossFit, I have gone from a tight 3X to a medium. My clothes have been falling off me. I also really and truly love aerobics. I also take classes with Loraine Piirainen at Rush Fitness in South Paris. She gives me a complete, total body workout. When I first met her, I told her she reminded me of Richard Simmons.

3. What’s your favorite move?

I don’t know why, but I freakin’ love deadlifts.

4. What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?

I hate Clean & Jerk.

5. What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RCF?

My health. When I was 40, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and I was given four years to live. It was an enormous battle. My PCP, surgeon, radiation oncologist, chemotherapist, and oncologist absolutely saved my life. So, 30 years later, when I think I might finally be ok, it came back. Same exact diagnosis.

My original surgeon had not retired. Praise Jesus because she’s brilliant. She told me I was in better shape at 70 than I had been at 40. All of them keep me smiling when I walk into a room. They said they have never had a 70-year-old woman who could do what I do. They have absolutely no idea what I am capable of so I should just play it by ear. They told me not to lift over two pounds for the first few months, to which I replied, “I can lift two pounds with my eyelashes.”

When you see your radiation team, you have to say your date of birth. I said 1952. I turned around and there were two people to help me on the stretcher. They had kindly put a stool there to help me. So…I kicked the stool out of my way (because I can), and I told them I didn’t need any help getting up on the table.

It’s been five months since my surgery and radiation. My fitness programs have absolutely saved my life and made my recovery 100% easier. I’m going to have people record what I’m doing and send it in to my docs.

6. What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?

I can jump. I can run. I can swing like a crazy person from a rope. I can run up AND downstairs with no problem. I can absolutely keep up with my grandchildren. The last time I saw them it was right after my surgery and they came running up to me and said “Run with us, Nana, run with us!” Because that is what I can do. They knew I’d had surgery. I could only chase them around the house for 15 minutes, but thanks to CrossFit, I was able to do that. I can go a full hour now with no issues. Whoop! Whoop!

7. What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.

I DETEST sand!

8. What’s your favorite color?

Orange/gold/teal

9. What’s your favorite music to listen to?

I love anything from Tchaikovsky (who I feel had a wonderful sense of humor in his work) to rock. I hear music and I have to move. I love it all. What I listen to at any particular time depends on my mood.

10. What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?

Gardening

11. Do you have any hobbies?

I like the idea of hobbies. I’m just not good at them.

12. M&Ms or Skittles?

OMG – M&M’s!

13. What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?

Cookie Dough

14. What do you do for work?

I’m retired. I was a medical transcriptionist, and I could type 150/WPM accurately. I ran my own business. It was much in demand at the time but doesn’t matter anymore. I absolutely LOVE all things medicine. Could watch surgical procedures forever. I would have been a great surgeon. Very small hands and nerves of steel. I now work part-time at Rush Fitness at the front desk. I needed something to keep me busy.

15. Tell us about your family.

I have a daughter, Shannon, who is married to Ken. Shannon is a nurse and I am very, very proud of her and all that she has accomplished. They have two sons, Ryan and Juju. I also have a niece, Chrissy (whom my brother named after the character in Three’s Company though he wouldn’t admit it!). I also have two nephews, Shawn Lynch (originally from Caribou) and Matthew Flagg. Except for Shawn, everyone lives in Massachusetts so I don’t get to see them as often as I would like.

I live on a hobby farm, and we have two sheep – Gallant and Gypsy – as well as many chickens. We also have Freya, my feral cat who adopted us.

16. If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?

If you want to stay mobile, YOU HAVE TO MOVE. GET OFF YOUR HINEY. It will help you recover from surgery. Everybody won’t talk to you in a baby voice and, if you can keep up, they won’t “dismiss” you. And if you fall down, you’ll be able to get back up.

Donna
Arsenault

Donna Arsenault has been a member of Renovation CrossFit since long before its inception! She's been with Betsy for over 10 years and simply followed her to RCF. Donna always puts her head down and gets the work done. Her work ethic shines at the gym. She's always willing to help - both at the gym and out. After all, her license plate says "DNTQUT" (Don't Quit) and she lives that out in all she does.

Here's a bit more about Donna.

1. Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?

I have been with Betsy for 10 years and followed her programming.

2. What's your favorite style of workout?

I can't think of one...I love them all!!

3. What's your favorite move?

Cleans, snatches, deadlifts, bench presses...I guess anything with a barbell!!

4. What's your least favorite style of workout and/or move?

Running because I now have arthritis in the arch of one foot, so it becomes painful. Although, I still walk/jog some.

5. What's one thing that's changed in your life since coming to RCF?

Working out has changed from basically being active to something seriously fun! I love taking on the challenges and seeing improvements. I was able to eliminate prescription medicines and warded off cholesterol medicine thus far. I hope I can maintain that for a VERY long time.

6. What's the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?

My health. Mind and body. A true sense of community with support that is out of this world. I have made some great friends at the gym. I am simply amazed at how everyone supports each other in this judgement free space. We are all willing to help anyone, cheer others on, listen to each other, and we really have a blast together in the workout.

7. What's your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.

I am not sure. I don't know that I have one. Everyone has one, right? Maybe I just don't know what mine is.

8. What's your favorite color?

Purple. My birthstone.

9. What's your favorite music to listen to?

Rock, but I listen to everything except classical.

10. What's your favorite thing to do outside the gym?

Hang out with my husband.

11. Do you have any hobbies?

I love to cook. Does that count?

12. M&Ms or Skittles?

M&Ms! I love chocolate.

13. What's your favorite ice-cream flavor?

Chocolate, coffee, black raspberry

14. What do you do for work?

I am a store manager at Rent-A-Center in Augusta. I have worked for the same company for 20 years.

15. Tell us about your family.

My husband and I are empty nesters. We have an adult daughter. Sometimes we get bored. The gym gives me something to do. We have one fur baby - an adopted cat named Sarge. A friend came up with his name. We adopted him on 9/11. I have a distant cousin who was one of the first on the scene at the Pentagon when it was attacked on 9/11.

16. If you could tell someone who doesn't go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?

Anyone can do CrossFit! I would tell them to give it a chance. They would be surprised at what they would discover. It is so fun, and no one judges anyone else. It is a great group of people who are so supportive of everyone else. Every day is a different workout, so you aren't doing the same choreographed moves over and over. Every day is a learning experience, too. There is always something new to learn. People are lying to themselves if they say they can't do this because there are modifications across the board for anyone and any move. I love this place!

In the start of a new series, we will be spotlighting our members from time to time.

Janet Stevens

Janet Stevens has been a member for so long, none of us can remember the exact time she started. She always has a smile on her face – especially if there are burpees involved! You can count on her to end every single workout – no matter how easy or challenging – with “That was fun!” Janet really loves playing games and wishes she could hang out with the kids each week. She’s always striving to make herself faster and better with every workout.

1. Why did you start coming to Renovation CrossFit?

I was a member when Betsy first opened at the dojo in Jay, and we did the Les Mills programming. I just followed her to the new space. I remember being excited and nervous when she was transitioning to CrossFit. I felt like I was finally good at the other programs and I was kind of scared to try something new.

2. What’s your favorite style of workout?

I honestly don’t think there’s ever been a workout I didn’t like. They are all fun! Partner WODs are always great and encouraging.

3. What’s your favorite move?

Gosh…double unders, hang cleans, front squats, pull-ups, rope climbs, handstand push-ups, sandbag carries, burpees over barbell…just to name a few. I cannot pick one! I LOVE them all!

4. What’s your least favorite style of workout and/or move?

One rep max.

5. What’s one thing that’s changed in your life since coming to RCF?

In the past, working out felt like something I did because I was supposed to. Now I go to RCF because I enjoy it. It truly is fun, and I am surrounded by wonderful people. The coaches are all amazing and encouraging also.

6. What’s the biggest benefit for you to being a member of RCF?

I have an autoimmune disorder called ankylosing spondylosis arthritis that is attacking my spine. It will eventually attack the other joints in my body or so they say. Working out every day at RCF has been very beneficial to my health, both physically and mentally in dealing with this disease. I have, up to this point, been able to avoid any medicine to suppress my immune system by movement, strength training, and lots of mobility. I hope to be able to continue that forever. There are some movements that I cannot do (anything spine loading) and I remind myself daily to be fortunate for what I am able to accomplish.

7. What’s your biggest pet peeve at the gym or at home.

Things being out of place – especially and specifically the kettlebells at the gym!

8. What’s your favorite color?

Orange

9. What’s your favorite music to listen to?

I really like a variety. I think it depends on the day. I run every morning and I don’t think I ever listen to the same type of music in one week.

10. What’s your favorite thing to do outside the gym?

Any time that is spent with my kids and my family. I also have a niece and nephew that live close by.

11. Do you have any hobbies?

Why was this so tough? Does vacuuming count as a hobby?

12. M&Ms or Skittles?

Skittles – none of the fancy new flavors – just the original

13. What’s your favorite ice-cream flavor?

Hood Green Monster Mint. I miss ice cream. I’ve yet to find a dairy-free one that tastes good and is worth eating (I have an allergy to whey in milk).

14. What do you do for work?

I am 44 years old and have been a waitress at the Chuck Wagon Restaurant for almost 29 years.

15. Tell us about your family.

I have a boyfriend of 15 years. I have a 20-year-old daughter who attends college and lives with us currently and works with me. And I have a 14-year-old son who keeps us plenty busy. We also have a 3-year-old chocolate lab named Gunnar. He’s the reason I do so much vacuuming!

16. If you could tell someone who doesn’t go to RCF why they should, what would you tell them?

Going to RCF will change your outlook on working out. It will not feel like a chore. It is FUN! I’ve made many friendships within the gym. I’m so thankful for that. It is always an encouraging place and not a place of judgement. I would encourage anyone that is hesitant and thinks they can’t do it, to definitely check it out. There are options for every move and everyone. One of my favorite things about CrossFit is there is always something new to learn. Even if it’s a move we’ve done over and over, there is always some place to improve. Everyday is a new opportunity to learn and grow.