Congratulations to Ellen Frank, July Athlete of The Month! Let’s get to know Ellen a little better with some questions below.

When and how did you get started with us?

I started in May a little over a year ago. My sister has a few friends who were (still are!) doing Crossfit and they all loved it. I’m not sure how–I have never been good at or enjoyed much of anything athletic and I felt like I was way too old–but she convinced me to try it. 

What is your biggest accomplishment since joining CFS?

I’ve started running–and I’m up to 2 miles. I had NEVER run before, and when I started CF I could barely do the 200M run out of the driveway. My pace is still slow, but I know to just keep at it. 

What is your favorite CrossFit movement?

I like the back squat. I have been able to make real progress, and I feel like it is really building strength.

What is your advice to new folks?

When I first started, I was scared and freaked out every time I looked at the WOD. I would have to talk myself into going. I would tell myself–it’s only an hour. I can do anything for an hour. And I just kept coming. The coaches were great at helping me scale and encouraging me (they still are, and I still scale everything!). Just keep coming, ask for help, listen to the coaches (CC especially) when they say that range and form are more important than volume and load. And, have fun and take pride in your progress! 

What was your first music concert you went to?

Billy Joel–my senior year in high school. 

What are your top two favorite movies?

The Big Chill

When Harry Met Sally

What is your favorite holiday and why?

I love Thanksgiving. I love having the kids home, being with family, and the smell of turkey and other holiday foods cooking. 

If you were in a karaoke contest to win a million dollars what song would you sing?

Billy Joel’s Piano Man

What is something most people would not know about you?

I worked for public television for many years–in doing I so was fortunate to meet many famous public television personalities. In my last few years there, I met, spent time with, and even traveled with many of the cast members of Downton Abbey.