Maridee Jefferson
33
Analyst at State Farm
1. How long have you been doing CrossFit?
I started 3 years ago when my friend talked me into trying the intro class. Plus the cute ripped guy she set me up with was there as well (he’s now my hubby ) 😉
2. What, if any, training did you do prior to CrossFit?
I used to workout at Gold’s Gym. I had a personal trainer for a little bit because I had never been to a gym before going there. Mostly though I worked out on my own which got pretty boring.
3. What motivates you to keep coming back each day?
I’ve always been really active and I like the energy I get from going to the gym 4-5 days a week. I’m lucky that my husband and I get to go together and he’s a good motivator to me into the gym. The community at 5 Alarm is great as well, so the friendships that I’ve made there and motivation from others is another great reason to start my day at the gym.
4. What is your favorite/least favorite movement & WOD?
DB Snatch and wall balls are my favorite movements. Thrusters have always been my least favorite, especially heavy thrusters. I really enjoy partner WOD’s. They always push me to go harder and faster
5. What’s one thing you hope to accomplish in the gym in the upcoming year?
Since I’ve had to cut back on my workout intensity due to being pregnant, I hope to get back to the level I was pre-pregnancy. I’ve never been through this before so I don’t know how hard that will be to accomplish but I know I will have support and motivation from my fellow 5 Alarmers.
6. What one piece of advice would you give to somebody just starting out?
Listen to your coaches, push yourself, and always listen to your body. It’s important to have good form and feel comfortable with movements before packing on a lot of weight. I remember it used to be intimidating when I started out and had such low weights compared to everyone else. You’ll be surprised though, at how much stronger you get week after week.
What are other 5 Alarm athletes saying about Maridee?
Maridee is one of the hardest workers at the gym. She has excellent technique and is hands down one of the best in the gym on the rower. Maridee is always positive and encouraging to others. She is an excellent role model for young women everywhere. It is great that she gets to share her passion for fitness with her new husband Nick. I’m very happy for both of them as they move closer to having their first child. They will be great parents! – Barry Reilly
I was fortunate enough to be one of Maridee’s first coaches. Since then, I have gotten to compete alongside of her and witness first hand how strong she is both mentally and physically. Maridee is a dedicated athlete that quietly gets her workout in and has a smile on her face when she’s done. Currently, with her pregnancy, she continues on the path of fitness while inspiring others on a Monday morning when half the class might still be groggy from the weekend. I have heard more than once, “If Maridee can do it, I will too!” Keep quietly inspiring others and pass on your mindset of health and wellbeing to your baby! – Coach Erica Piwinsky
Maridee has incredible work ethic which is always recognizable, even being pregnant, in and out of the gym. When she met Nick and I saw how strong she looked, I wanted to start CrossFit. Maridee is always willing to help people out in classes whether it’s me, the newbie mother-in-law, or anyone else there. One of Evan’s favorite Maridee memories is when she thought that marathon bumper stickers were radio stations. Maridee is a great addition to 5 Alarm CrossFit and the Jefferson families and we can’t wait for their little one to arrive! – Sheri Jefferson
I was so happy when Maridee joined our box and even more happy when she became a regular in the Dawn Patrol. I knew Maridee outside the gym, so I knew what a truly wonderful and beautiful person she was, but I had no idea how strong and athletic she is! Maridee amazes me. She attacks each WOD, giving it her all and at the same time, encourages the rest of us. Maridee has such a positive attitude and great spirit. It is a gift to be able to workout near her and to know her. – Kathryn Copley
Over the last two years, I’ve had the pleasure of not only getting to know Maridee as an athlete, but also as a friend. She is one of the strongest and most humble people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. She’s constantly encouraging those around her with her positive attitude, her smile, and her presence. I know recently, she’s become even more of an inspiration for many, as she quietly attacks her workouts at 5 am each morning while pregnant. I have no doubt that she’s going to be an incredible Mom and role model for their baby girl. Â – Coach Leah Wheeler
Motivated, determined, committed, consistent…These are just a few words that come to mind when I think of Maridee. Some might think those of just that workout at 5 am on a regular basis are crazy. Maridee continues to workout at this time throughout her pregnancy. She doesn’t use it as an excuse. Instead, she is always looking at options to make sure she gets a good workout in while growing little Miss Jefferson safely. Maridee, your strength and commitment to health are great motivation for those of us working out along side you. Keep up the awesome work! – Cindy Bruce
