Stacy Isferding
Coach
Growing up I wasn’t interested in sports. It wasn’t until college I started going to the gym. Even then, all I did was spend hours on the elliptical machine. After moving to Madison for work, I took up running for exercise. I would run 3-5 miles every day and occasionally spice it up with some interval training. But, running alone wasn’t accomplishing the fitness goals I desired.
So, I began working with a personal trainer, and I realized I could do more than just run. I learned how to use free weights and how to properly squat and deadlift, and I discovered how much I enjoyed adding strength training into my workout routine.
In the summer of 2015, I visited a friend in Milwaukee. She warned me she was going to take me to a CrossFit class with her. I’d never heard of CrossFit, nor did I know what it was all about, but for some reason I went with her. I felt out of place and awkward as soon as I walked in, but to my surprise, everyone was so welcoming and reassuring. It wasn’t like the gym atmosphere I’d encountered in the past—and still have nightmares about! Even though I had to scale all the movements, nobody judged me or made me feel I didn’t belong. People were there to do the workout together and have a great time. I’d never experienced that kind of support or comradery at the gym prior to CrossFit.
Back in Madison, a friend referred me to CrossFit Sanctify. After two weeks at Sanctify, I was hooked and signed up for a membership—the rest is history! I have been at Sanctify for over 6 years, and I love the community. All the coaches are amazing, and they inspire me to work hard and to become a better athlete.
Although I wish I had found CrossFit earlier in life, I am grateful my friend introduced me to it when she did. Never in a million years would I have imagined I would be able to lift heavy weights and enjoy it as much as I do.
After my third year at Sanctify, I decided to try coaching. I knew I had a lot to learn, but I wanted to give it a shot. Getting my CF-L1 and shadowing the coaches was TERRIFYING. It pushed me far outside of my comfort zone, but each coach was encouraging and supportive. The coaching staff helped me recognize my potential. I am still a work in progress, but I enjoy every minute of it.
I am so grateful I stepped through the door of CrossFit Sanctify so many years ago. I’ve found a place with a wonderful and accepting community—they’re my second family really. I am surrounded by knowledgeable, brilliant coaches that push me to be both a better athlete and coach.
Sanctify has helped me overcome some of my biggest fears, and I hope I can help future members do the same.
Credentials:
B.S. Chemistry
CrossFit: CF-L1