Meet Nicole, our Member of the Month!
This month, we’re excited to recognize Nicole as our Croga Fitness Member of the Month! I’ve known Nicole since her days at CrossFit San Jose, and she has always been the kind of person who makes every class better with her positive attitude, strong work ethic, and infectious energy. Since joining Croga in April 2025, she’s become an incredible part of our community, consistently showing up, working hard, and embracing every challenge without making excuses. Whether she’s training for her next triathlon, crushing a powerlifting session, or encouraging those around her, Nicole embodies what Croga is all about. Her fitness journey over the past year has been inspiring, and we’re proud to celebrate not only her accomplishments but also the positivity and confidence she brings to our gym every day.
Way to go, Nicole- you earned it!
When did you join Croga?April ‘25
What were you doing before for fitness?Triathlons, I subscribed to some CrossFit type programming for “older ladies” and did it in my garage gym most recently, Peloton, Pilates, tennis, golf, rucking. Years ago CrossFit San Jose, CrossFit Santa Cruz Central and RPM. I love to keep moving.
What was your first workout? First reaction to your first workout?I only came two days a week at first, just for powerlifting. I loved it of course, this is where I’ve always felt most comfortable.
What improvements have you seen in the way you look, feel, and perform?A lot of physical changes and improvements, lighter, faster in the pool, on the bike and running, better golf swing, more flexible. Improved mental health, more positive in life!
What days and times do you come to Croga?6am 3-4 days during the week, mobility Saturday.
What’s your favorite WOD?Straight powerlifting is my favorite…but WOD maybe Fran with scaled pull ups. Love a bear complex. Kinda love thrusters.
What’s your least favorite WOD?Probably a chipper, the Filthy Fifty and the like. But if it was on the board I’d do it. This is the only place I don’t mind being told what to do, shh don’t tell.
“The Nicole” WOD! What would it be?DT…deadlifts, cleans and press overhead. How can we fit in some bench press?
What’s your favorite post-workout routine?I like to lay on the floor on my back with my legs bent over the couch. It’s a super relaxing pose that I learned at a yoga retreat years ago.
What’s been your favorite culinary discovery since joining Croga?I started baking sourdough bread! I’m not a great cook or baker but I honestly feel like Croga has given me some confidence to just try stuff. And I did! I bake all of our bread weekly for my family and they love it!
What’s your biggest fitness goal for this year?I want to increase my triathlon distance and I’m working my way there. This past weekend I did a swim/bike race at the increased distance and finished it! Now to add the longer run next.
What do you love about this type of fitness?EVERYTHING! Variation is key for me. Love being part of Croga and also the broader Crossfit community. Doing drop ins when I travel is so fun. Every day I feel accomplished and humbled.
What words of advice do you have for new members or people considering joining Croga?This is a community where everyone is welcomed and supported, no matter your fitness level, age, size etc etc. Coaching and programming are fantastic, people are the best! Small victories are still victories. It doesn’t have to be fun to be fun!
Anything to add that we didn’t touch on yet?Croga helped change my mid-life “crisis” to a mid-life “era”. In spite of moving a lot and eating well, I was in my worst shape in years in large part due to what I call “old lady sh$&” hormones, menopause blah blah blah. Mentally in a rut. Showing up consistently, fulfilling my commitments to myself, life is just infinitely better. More joy, more friends, more confidence. Loving this mid-life era so much!!
