November Featured Athlete - Tracy Keel

1. Where are you from?

We moved to Ithaca from Wilmington, NC in 2007.

2. What brought you to Ithaca (if you aren’t from here)?

My husband’s job with Corning brought us to NY.

3. What do you do for a living?

I do financial analysis and reporting for the Student Health Plan at Cornell.

4. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Hopefully, in as good or better shape than I am now and without injuries.

5. What brought you into Pallas?

I was a former CrossFit of Ithaca Member. I am thankful for the introduction to CrossFit and the community from my former gym. What I found was that I really thrive on the routine of my morning workout. I started doing the Pallas zoom classes when everything was shut down. When Pallas re-opened for in person classes I jumped at the chance to get back in the gym.

6. What keeps you coming to Pallas?

I love the programming, the people, and the opportunity to come work out every morning.

7. What’s a goal you’ve crossed off your list?

Kipping pull ups.

8. What’s your next goal and what steps are you taking to achieve it?

Double unders. I intend to make this my winter project and to practice in my garage.

9. What’s your favorite movement?

Handstand push ups.

10. Do you have a least favorite?

Thrusters. They are a full body movement like burpees, but with a barbell.

11. If you could write a WOD, what would it look like?

Hmmm. This is a tough question. I like wods that are a mix of cardio and weights. Maybe an AMRAP of Devils press, weighted box step ups, wall balls.?

12. Do you have a favorite season?

Summer! I am a warm weather person.

13. Where’s your favorite place to hike in the Finger Lakes?

Robert Treman State Park

14. What do you do for self care?

Yoga every Sunday. Cooking and gardening are also my stress management outlets.

15. How has the pandemic affected your fitness?

I knew this before from before the pandemic, but not being able to go to the gym for such a long time confirmed it- we are stronger together. I struggled through the months of not having a gym to go to. It was really difficult to be motivated to work out by myself, and found that starting my day with a run was about all that I could manage. At least this way I got some exercise and got out of the house. Over a period of a few months, I acquired a wall ball, a pull up bar, a barbell and some bumper plates, and a box. It was a far cry from the gym, but it was better than nothing. The pandemic has taught me to adapt to the situation and try and make the best of it.

16. What’s your favorite restaurant?

Saigon Kitchen

17. Where’s your dream vacation spot?

The Caribbean. I love to scuba dive.

18. What would you say to someone hesitant about starting Functional Fitness?

Try it- it is so much fun! You will be surprised at what you are capable of.