Hey there! I’m Hope, a Clinical Exercise Physiologist working in Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation in Baltimore, MD. My journey in exercise science started at Salisbury University, where I earned my bachelor's degree, followed by my master's at the University of Delaware. I’m passionate about helping people improve their cardiovascular health and overall fitness, and I believe in using movement to heal and strengthen both the body and mind.
When I’m not helping patients or at the gym, you’ll find me enjoying some sushi, soaking up the sun at the beach, or spending quality time with my friends and family. I’m all about balance—whether it's pushing my limits in CrossFit or relaxing with the people I love. Oh, and did I mention I’m a cat lover? My feline friends always know how to keep me grounded.
CrossFit has made an impact on my life, not just for the physical gains, but for the community and mental strength it builds. I love the challenge and the support of the gym, and I’m always working to push myself to new limits, both in fitness and in life. Plus, my favorite color is pink—it’s a little reminder to stay bold and vibrant, no matter what!
What led you to try CrossFit?
After three years of powerlifting, I hit a point of burnout. While I loved the strength and discipline it brought, I needed something different—something that would challenge me in new ways and help reignite my passion for fitness. CrossFit offered the perfect mix of variety, intensity, and community that I was craving. It wasn't just about lifting heavy anymore; it was about pushing myself in all areas of fitness—strength, endurance, agility, and mental toughness. The energy in the gym, the camaraderie, and the constant opportunity for growth kept me coming back. I love that every workout is different, which keeps me mentally engaged and physically challenged.
Why do you continue to CrossFit?
CrossFit pushes me to be better every single day—whether it’s improving my endurance, mastering a new skill, or hitting a new PR. The variety in the workouts keeps it exciting, and I love that every day brings something different. There’s an undeniable energy in the gym, and the support from others makes me feel like I’m not just working out for myself, but for everyone around me. The accountability, the encouragement, and the shared victories are a huge part of why I love CrossFit.
Describe how your attitude towards health and fitness has evolved since you began your journey.
Since starting CrossFit, my attitude toward fitness and health has shifted in ways I didn’t expect. Initially, I was very focused on strength and performance, especially coming from powerlifting. It was all about the numbers—how much weight I could lift, how much I could push myself in a single session. But CrossFit has opened my eyes to the importance of balance and overall functional fitness. CrossFit has taught me to really listen to my body. It’s not always about pushing through pain, but about understanding when to dial back, take care of my recovery, and focus on sustainable progress. That shift in mindset has made me more patient and focused on long-term health rather than short-term gains.
Share a memorable CrossFit moment that makes you laugh or puts a smile on your face.
The first time I got over my fear of doing a handstand on the wall was an awesome feeling. But we're always smiling and having fun in the 6:30 pm class.
What are you proud of and why?
When I first started Crossfit about 7 months ago, I was barely able to do one pull-up, and now I am able to do up to 4 unbroken. It’s a reminder of my hard work, persistence, and growth. Pull-ups are one of those movements that many people find challenging, and for a long time, I was one of them.
What's your advice for other CrossFitters or people looking to start?
Fitness is a journey, not a destination. Stay patient and trust in your ability to improve. The CrossFit community is so supportive and will make you feel right at home.
Why the coaches chose Hope as Titan of the month:
Hope is a remarkable athlete, consistently seeking to learn and improve with a humble attitude. She is highly attentive to her coaches' directions and cues, and isn't afraid to ask questions of both coaches and fellow athletes. Her excellent mobility and high standards for form are evident in her workouts.
Beyond her athletic prowess, Hope brings a lighthearted and enjoyable presence to the gym. She understands the importance of consistency and frequency, scaling her workouts as needed rather than always pushing for maximum intensity. Hope truly enjoys her time in the gym, and her positive attitude makes classes more fun for everyone.
Did we mention Hope is also ridiculously strong? Her exceptional body awareness makes her a coach's dream. This body awareness, a core principle of CrossFit, allows athletes to quickly recognize when their form is off or something isn't quite right. Hope is well on her way to maintaining her excellent form and mobility for decades.
Thank you, Hope, for making Titan that much more fun for us all!
