Name: Markie Deal
Age: 29
Occupation: Accounts Receivable
Hometown: Dacula
Which class time do you usually attend?: 12:30pm
Favorite WOD: Any AMRAP that doesn’t include BB snatches
Favorite CF Movement: Devils Press
Least Favorite CF Movement: Barbell Snatches (I’m terrible at them!)
3RM Back Squat: 135 lbs
1RM Deadlift: 205 lbs
Favorite Food: Mexican
Favorite Movie: Sweet Home Alabama
Favorite Athlete: Mookie Betts
Dream Job: Detective
Dream Vacation Destination: Mexico
If you could have any super power…: Control time
Favorite Motivational Quote: “Do something today that your future self will thank you for.”
How long have you been doing CrossFit?: November, 2018
How did you first discover CrossFit and what made you decide to start? I watched my boss compete in a CrossFit competition. I signed up a week later and have been attending classes at least 4 times a week for almost two years.
Tell us about your fitness/sports background: Growing up I was always very active. Throughout High School I was in Body Sculpting classes. While in college for Exercise Science I spent most of my extra time teaching step cardio classes.
What sorts of positive changes (mental, physical, emotional) have you noticed in your life since getting involved at No Excuses?:
I love being a member at No Excuses! I am physically in the best shape that I have ever been in. I have become so much more confident and driven. I actually look forward to working out now. I get positive comments all of the time from friends and family.
Who or what keeps you coming back and motivated?:
The people, workouts, and results keep me motivated to keep coming back.
In what other ways do you use your fitness?:
I run 10-15 miles a week.
Please share with us a favorite CrossFit or No Excuses moment.
My favorite No Excuses moment was participating in the Granite Games. It was my first-ever competition. There was so much energy and my teammates were amazing! My whole family was there and they were so proud of it!
Name one goal you would like to achieve in the next year.
I want to be the healthiest and fittest I can be before I get married.
Tell us about your hobbies and interests outside of the gym: *
I enjoy running and aerobic classes. I like to read and spend time on our boat. I like visiting wineries and local breweries. I am currently planning a wedding!
What advice do you have for someone just starting CrossFit or is on the fence about starting? *
If you stick with it you’re not going to regret it! It’s hard but so worth it!
What do you love most about No Excuses?:
The people and the workouts.
Coach Brandon’s take:
Markie has a very strong work ethic, which was evident during the quarantine. She didn’t let up while working out at home and was crushing workouts! She already had a strong fitness background when she joined No Excuses, so it’s been fun to see her improve in some of the more technical movements like kipping pull ups and snatches.