CrossFit Epping

We had only been open four months when Norie first stumbled across CFE back in 2014. Since then, in addition to her extensive mountain and road bike training, she has attended over 895 CrossFit classes. Yes, we counted. Norie has been with us through it all, she’s seen our best and most embarrassing moments as a small business. From when the team was just myself, Tobey and Keegan plus the 50 community members, to today’s team of 12 and the now thriving community we all love. I feel like she watched us grow up.

Norie’s smile is infectious and her attitude in the 900 hours we’ve had her in class has never been anything other than positive. Literally not once. Although you might look across the room in the middle of a tough workout and see her with a big smile while she mouths the words “what the f*ck?!” to you…

It’s been a genuine pleasure being able to work with Norie for these last 8+ years and we’re looking forward to another 8 more. Read on to learn a little bit about Norie you might not already know.

What do you do outside of CrossFit? 
I worked in Corporate Accounting for half of my career and then transitioned into managing Accounting/ERP Software Implementations for the past 15 years.  This allows me to be creative to assist Accounting staff to be more productive and have the technology and tools to reach their goals.

I do love outdoor activities, biking, hiking, paddle boarding, skiing, and boating with my husband Darren and dog Molly.  I have been a member and treasurer for a local mountain biking club, NEMBA-New England Mountain Bike Association for almost 20 years.   It’s been rewarding to build and work on trail systems to promote epic riding experiences and preserving trails and open spaces.  My latest activity is Bike Jouring with Molly. 

What did you do for fitness before CFE?
Fitness started as a kid bicycling around town till the street lights went on.  I then started weightlifting and Reebok Step Aerobics in college (Yes, I’m showing my age).  My college roommate asked if I wanted to join the Rugby team, I said sure, why not?  That was my first experience with a team sport.  Rugby got me into running and dirty drinking songs. 

What made you chose CFE?
I had wanted to try CrossFit for a few years.  I was riding my bike on the rail trail with friends and discovered CFE as we passed through Epping.  I was so excited, I joined right away in October 2014.  Sean had me do some crazy initial workout/test which included Burpees. I somehow passed and then was led through the “on ramp”.  I had never heard of a clean, jerk, or a snatch, but was intrigued and a little scared.  The friendly and supportive coaches and community from the day I walked in led me through my initial months.

Advice to someone who is hesitant to try CrossFit?
Go for it.  It is honestly the best workout every day I walk through the door.  If you are someone that gets bored and changes gyms, you will not have this experience with CrossFit.  There are challenges but there is always a helpful coach or member to assist and give you praise and guidance.  Coaches will assist in helping you modify a workout when there are limitations or formulate a plan to meet your specific goals.

Proudest achievement? 
When I no longer left the gym with lash marks from double unders. Stringing pull-ups for the first time during an Open workout was pretty epic.  Completing rope climbs conquered my grade school fears.

Greatest challenge?
24 hour mountain bike races.  Again, a friend asked if I wanted to be on a 24 hour mountain bike team.  FYI, do not eat grainy spelt bread during a long endurance race.  We got smarter with our nutrition and did a few of those, the Vermont 50, and the Hampshire 100 races. I then finished a 12 hour solo mountain bike race and covered over 70 miles. 

Goals moving forward in life, at the gym?
I want to continue to challenge myself.   Toes to Bar has been my CrossFit nemesis.  I need to get on it or it will never happen.

If you could design a workout what would it be? 
Lunges, sit-ups, double unders.  NO Burpees!  It could be called the “Nor’easter” or “Norie’easter”

If you could eat one thing for the rest of your life what would it be?  Burritos.  Every day would be a fiesta!!

Favorite quote? 
“Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance” – Eckhart Tolle

Favorite Movie?
The Holiday or Just Go With It

You’re stuck in a Karaoke Bar and can’t leave till you sing a song, what song is it?
Nope

What’s a fun fact about you that we should know about you? 
I’ve completed the Top Notch Triathlon a few times.  Bike, Swim, and Run/Hike up Cannon Mountain. Again, my Ironman Triathlete asked me to try this out. 

There is a pattern here,  If you ask me to join you on a challenge, I may just say yes.