December 2019 Athlete of The Month: Brandi Yackel!

Each month we spotlight a different CrossFit 1710 athlete who stands out and shows just how awesome they are. What is it that makes up an Athlete of the Month? It may not be the person that finishes the fastest, Rx’s every WOD, or gets a PR every time they walk in the gym. Although we love and celebrate when those things happen, the Athlete of the Month is made up of much more than physical ability. This person shows up, gives their best every time, and then gives a little more. They are hungry to learn and always ready to do the work. They support their fellow athletes and encourage them to reach their goals. This athlete embodies what we believe the CrossFit 1710 Community should be about.

Our December 2019 Athlete of The Month is Brandi Yackel! Brandi has been an athlete with us since August 23rd, 2019. Brandi comes in to the box ready to put in work and continues to show progress in her fitness. You'll find Brandi in the 5:00am class with her son Holt. Come and join Brandi in a workout and you’ll see why she's our AOTM! Get to know Brandi in her interview below. Congratulations Brandi! We’re so happy to have you as our December 2019 Athlete of the Month and as an awesome athlete in our community!

1. TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF. 

My name is Brandi Yackel. I have been married to my husband, Scott, for 17 years. We Have a 13 year old daughter, Kye, and a 10 Year old son, Holt. I have been a pediatric dental hygienist for 15 years. I work in Sugar Land at Larry Caldwell,DDS. We help kids from birth to young adulthood to love the dentist. We specialize in patients with special needs. 

My husband and I also own The Screen Stop in El Campo where we screen print t-shirts, create team uniforms, outfit businesses with hats, shirts, and other gear, we do embroidery and vinyl all kinds of items!

2. WHAT MADE YOU START CROSSFIT?

I have always loved working out and trying new things! Crossfit was something I had heard about but had not found one near me...Then a friend told me about Crossfit 1710 and the class schedules and times were great for me!

3. WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED SINCE JOINING CROSSFIT 1710?

I learn a new move or way of doing an exercise every class. I like the instruction of proper technique and the attention to detail to ensure every athlete is working to their skill level. I am very impressed with the coaches' ability to help everyone and scale the workouts to allow so many different fitness levels to work as one!

4. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT CORSSFIT 1710 OR CROSSFIT IN GENERAL?

The athletes are the best parts of Crossfit 1710! They are very welcoming, helpful, and encouraging.

5. WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST CROSSFIT MOMENT? 

I feel like I have so many more great workouts and accomplishments to come with Crossfit 1710... but I am proud when my son, Holt, comes to class with me. Not only am I working on myself - but I am also trying to be a good example of how working hard, being consistent, and not making excuses can pay off in the box and in life.

6. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVEMENT/LIFT? LEAST FAVORITE?

I love any kind of press movement...I don't dislike any movements but I do struggle with running..so those days I try to push a little harder.

"A lot of times - we like the movements that are easy for us - but it's the movements that challenge us that make us better!" Coach Jason

7. WHAT IMPACT HAS CROSSFIT HAD ON YOUR LIFE IN AND OUT OF THE GYM?

Crossfit makes me happy! I feel better after every sweat session with the athletes.

8. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS AND HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO REACHING THEM?

I would love to do unassisted pull ups...I still have a ways to go. But I will get there:)

9. WHEN YOU’RE NOT CROSSFITTING WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO?

I love hunting and fishing with my family. I also love singing with my band- Duzzty Roadz.

10. THE ONE TIP YOU’D GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS THINKING ABOUT STARTING CROSSFIT OR JUST STARTED?

Just start - believe you can do it!

11. WHAT IS YOUR DIET LIKE? HAS IT CHANGED SINCE STARTING CROSSFIT?

Try to be conscious of my food choices... I definitely don't stop by Starbucks everyday anymore!

12. RESULTS? TELL US ABOUT YOUR RESULTS!

In the couple of months that I have been coming to class (3-4 x a week) I see muscle definition appearing and I can tell my pants are getting a little bit of room in them. I hope I have bigger results to report in the future!