On November 17, CrossFit Mint Hill opened its doors!
CrossFit Mint Hill is owned by business partners Charlotte Quan and Karen Gilsdorf. Both women will act as coaches at CrossFit Mint Hill. A CrossFit athlete since 2012, Quan became a Level 1 coach in 2015. Gilsdorf started with CrossFit in 2013 and became a Level 1 Coach earlier this year. Quan and Gilsdorf are excited to share their passion and enthusiasm for CrossFit with their local Mint Hill Community. They are joined by coach Nikki Kral, who is looking forward to bringing functional fitness to Mint Hill.
CrossFit is type of group exercise led by a coach. The classes are constantly varied and involve cardio, weightlifting and gymnastics. For fitness-minded individuals looking for something other than a traditional gym or a one-on-one personal trainer in Mint Hill, CrossFit offers a welcome alternative. “It is different from regular commercial gyms,” says Quan. “You do not see weightlifting machines.”
Although CrossFit is known for being the strength and conditioning program of choice for many police academies, military units, champion martial artists, and professional athletes, Quan and Gilsdorf are quick to dispel the myth that CrossFit is only for elite athletes. “Cross Fit stands out because of its ability to bring fitness that is not only for the seasoned athlete but also for the all age groups from kids to grandparents,” says Quan. “The founder of CrossFit said it best: ‘The needs of Olympic athletes and our grandparents differ in degree not kind.’ The ability to scale movements makes it appropriate for all individuals regardless of experience.”
Quan and Gilsdorf began emphasizing CrossFit’s adaptability on day one. As RXtreme Games announced their “Workout of the Day” #3 for February’s RX Madness Competition, Quan and Gilsdorf not only ran heats to test run the workout but also showed how the movements can be modified to meet the needs of those who are new to CrossFit.
For Quan and Gilsdorf, there is one more important factor that sets CrossFit apart from more traditional gyms: an atmosphere of camaraderie and support. “Community is one of the big reasons CrossFit is so successful,” says Quan. “Karen and I want to bring this special aspect of CrossFit to the Mint Hill area. We will promote a non-judgemental environment that promotes teamwork and camaraderie.”
Quan feels CrossFit’s supportive coaches and community are even more important with the impending holidays. “This is a perfect time to open our CrossFit gym. With the holidays approaching, we can offer a supportive environment for people to stay on track with exercise and eating,” says Quan. “It is amazing to see how much further people with push themselves when others cheer for you and support you.”
CrossFit Mint Hill is located on Fairview Road near the Mint Hill Fire Department. They offer classes Monday through Friday at 5:30 am, 9:15 am, 12:00, 4:30 pm, 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm and Saturdays at 9:00 am. They are offering a free trial through November 30. Learn more about CrossFit Mint Hill at www.crossfitmh.com.
