Lauren Gardner

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

I grew up in Augusta County, went away to TN for college, then decided to come back home. Most of my immediate and extended family were in this area, and we are close, so it was important to me to be nearby to everyone. I met my now husband a few years after college; we've been married 11 years now and have 3 kids, ages 8, 5, and 15 months. Up until May of this past year, I worked as a massage therapist. I owned my own business but decided to let that go to be home full time with my kids. I am still adjusting to the change, but overall, I know it is where I am supposed to be for now. 

As far as fitness goes, I have played sports since I was 7 years old. I played soccer from then through college as well as basketball and volleyball in middle and high school. During and after college, I continued to find various fitness routines and videos to keep me somewhat in shape in addition to running/walking. Having majored in exercise and health science and being a personal trainer, I heard about CrossFit almost as soon as it started. I was skeptical at first, so it was 2014 before I decided to try it. I was hooked from my first class, and the rest is history. 

What are your current goals and why do you CrossFit?

Currently, my goals are to gain strength back after having my third baby in July of 2023. I feel so much better on the days I make it to the gym, so 4-5 days a week is my goal. I'm taking it slow, but I have already seen more progress these last few months than I thought I would. I do CrossFit because it is always something different and challenges me in a way I would not do on my own. The mental and physical benefits are hard to put into words, but they are what keep me going back. 

What are your favorite movements? How about your least favorite? Why?

Favorite movements - Thrusters and clean and jerks. I love that they are full body and involve pushing weight overhead because then I get to slam it down, and that's super empowering for me.

My least favorite movements -  Double unders; I was never good at jump rope as a kid, much less an adult. It took me over 3 years to get one, and even after 10 years, they are still a struggle most days. 

What do you think is special about CrossFit Anazao?

The community at Anazao is definitely special and sets our gym apart from others I think. We all try to lift each other up and encourage each other in and out of the gym. 

Is there anything else you want to say?

I definitely wouldn't be where I'm at today physically or otherwise without this gym and community. I am so thankful I joined when I did and that I've been able to be a part of it both as an athlete and as a coach. 

A note from one of our coaches…

Lauren is not only a fantastic coach, but she leads by example when she comes through the door as an athlete as well. As a coach, Lauren brings a wealth of knowledge with her to every class! As an athlete, she always brings 100% to every workout. Just coming back from having her 3rd baby she has kicked it into gear showing up consistently and putting in hard work, even brining her tiny cheering section with her again leading by example. She is absolutely a fantastic asset to our little bonus family.