We are beyond thrilled to announce our April athlete of the month, Kathy Murray (aka. Mama)!!! Kathy is a true inspiration to all of us and an important member of our 619 family. In September 2012, at the age of 55, Kathy began her journey at 619 San Diego Personal Training 619 and has since experienced countless milestones. Kathy first learned about 619 San Diego Personal Training from her best friend, who is 60 years old and living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She saw the positive impact that 619 San Diego Personal Training was having on not only her MS symptoms but her overall life. Kathy was inspired and knew that if her friend could do it then she could too! At that point she had no idea what 619 San Diego Personal Training entailed, but as she began to investigate she was intrigued by the “back to basic” (functional) movements. Kathy knew that she was looking for a no nonsense atmosphere, where she did not feel judged, and got consistent support. She contacted 619 San Diego Personal Training 619, where she and her husband met with Chris, and she knew that this was the place for her to begin her whole person transformation.

Kathy believes that “signing up with Chris for personal training was the “best thing she has ever done for herself, and has given [her] the opportunity to learn, one-on-one, everything she needs to know.” She is grateful for Chris’ vigilant focus on safety and his ability to constantly push her; “she cannot imagine working with anyone else.” She also highlights her appreciation for the entire 619 San Diego Personal Training 619 team; she “loves the way that [we] help and support each other,” calling it “team effort without ego.” She recognizes that everyone has an interest in each other and is motivated by the community of dedicated members and trainers.

In the beginning, Kathy’s goals were simple, “she needed to be healthier and wanted to be around for her family for years to come.” She never knew the holistic effect that this personal investment would yield. Her physical being is healthier and stronger; she can do more functional movements like grabbing a case of water at Costco or running a mile, but most importantly she is walking taller and more confidently, her attitude is better, and she no longer has an impending sense of doom – “like her body was waiting for her mind to catch up.” Kathy is feeling the change from the inside out and is more than ready to go and experience life. Already she has started engaging in activities – such as yoga – that she has always wanted to try. Her life to do list is endless and we know that the best is only yet to come!

Athlete of the Month Questionnaire

How did you get involved in 619 San Diego Personal Training?

I was looking for a program to regain my health, at 55, I felt I was missing so much of life – out of shape, overweight – I had tried so many things, I wanted a no nonsense/no gimmick “program.”

My best friend in Seattle had been involved with this thing called 619 San Diego Personal Training for almost a year. She has MS; because of CF she no longer uses a cane and has improved her health. I thought, I have no excuse . . . I looked it up online, did some research of local places, I contacted Chris, he agreed to meet with me . . . the rest is creating my new history.

What was your first WOD/experience?

My first WOD was something, we started with a 400m run . . . I had no idea how far that was and I lost site of the mob. . . I wound up “running” approximately 1 mile, but the most amazing thing was finishing and the cheering I received.

How long have you been 619 San Diego Personal Training for?

Since Sept 2012 – training primarily with Chris.

What is your biggest accomplishment?

There are so many things; I guess the most visible is my 35 lb weight loss.

What is your favorite/least favorite WOD/movement?

I don’t think I’ve found either yet . . . still learning and have so many things I haven’t tried. I like tire flipping, back squats. I love that I’m learning so many movements – and learning how to do them safely.

What do you do for a profession outside of 619 San Diego Personal Training?

I am a Registered Nurse of 30+ years.

What are your hobbies outside of 619 San Diego Personal Training?

Family, reading/learning, movies, home improvements/landscaping, shopping (hubby says this is #1).

A fun fact…

I’ll give you a couple!

1) I am a Gran’ma of 7 – ages 1-11.
2) I took a year off work (awhile back) and worked in a barn of 19 horses-mucking stalls, feeding, grooming- the whole nine yards – It was a girlhood dream.
3) I was also a certified horse massage therapist,

Obviously Kathy is an asset to the 619 San Diego Personal Training 619 family and we are honored to have her as April’s Athlete of the Month! We love you Kathy!