Pike

5 rounds for time of:
75-lb. thrusters, 20 reps
10 strict ring dips
20 push-ups
10 strict handstand push-ups
50-meter bear crawl

Katie will fit right in at Roots - she drinks coffee!

Katie will fit right in at Roots – she loves CrossFit and coffee!

Katie Powell Comes to Roots!

In the wake of Shane’s accident and his road to recovery, we knew we would be short staffed this fall, so we scoured the universe looking to bring in a few of the best CrossFit trainers we know. And, we couldn’t be more excited to welcome Katie Powell and EvaClaire Synkowski to the Roots team this fall! Both women are seasoned CrossFitters, experienced coaches, and work on the CrossFit Headquarters Seminar Staff. 

Katie arrives Tuesday and you’ll see her on the class schedule next week! Eva Claire joins us in early October. Katie comes to us from CrossFit JAX in Jacksonville, Florida. Please help us welcome her to Roots!

Katie Powell

How many years have you been CrossFitting?
I have been CrossFitting for six years – since October 2009

Where were you born and raised?
Born and raised in Waterloo, Iowa

What’s your life story in four sentences?
I grew up in the Midwest, but have spent the last six years in Jacksonville, where I found CrossFit. Before CrossFit, I was heading down a pretty bad path – a lot of partying, drinking, and just generally a destructive lifestyle. I’m so fortunate that I found something that helped me completely turn my life around. Now, my goals are to help others find the confidence to do the same thing. 

Married, family, kids?
Not married. No kids. BIG family whom I love to pieces.

What was your first CrossFit workout?
The Baseline Workout – 500 m row, 40 squats, 30 sit-ups, 20 push-ups, 10 pull-ups. Absolutely crushed me.

What is your favorite CrossFit workout?
Grace – 30 clean & jerks for time. Quick and dirty.

What is your least favorite CrossFit workout?
Barbara – not quick, definitely dirty.

What did you do for your career before coming on at Roots?
I was a head coach at my sister’s affiliate, CrossFit JAX. I currently work as a trainer on the Level 1 Seminar Staff as well.

What is your favorite CrossFit story?
The recent story of Constance Tillett, a 76 year-old woman CrossFitting in New York – that really hit me. Her story is an example of what CrossFit is really all about. If you haven’t seen the video – go watch!

When did you start coaching? What sport?
I danced from the time I was 8 years old, through part of college. So, my teaching experience began with teaching kids dance classes. Been coaching CrossFit for 5 years. 

What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done to help an athlete perform or move better?
One of my athletes was having trouble dialing in their nutrition, but they really wanted to take it to next level. So we went to the grocery store together 2x per week for a month, just to educate and build some good habits for them. Not that crazy maybe, but very effective!

What do you do for fun outside of CrossFit?
I enjoy anything outdoors, listening to music, going to concerts, traveling, hanging out with friends and family. 

Additional comments?
I am beyond excited to join the CrossFit Roots family and get to know you all!