Bethany Branham
Overall and Age Group Champion ∂∂ Women 20–29 How many years have you competed in the AFM FITTEST? Two. How have the previous years gone for you? Last year, I got third overall. What do you think kept you from first place last year? The softball throw—I don’t have hand-eye coordination skills. I got only two out of 20! What inspired you to compete? I’ve watched it for many years, but what I like about the AFM FITTEST is that it focuses on different aspects that make up fitness. Favorite test? I actually didn’t mind the mile run. I know I don’t look like a runner but that’s what I did back in high school. I also liked the second mystery test. Least favorite test? The battle ropes were terrible.
hair and makeup by Anastasia Miller, Rae Cosmetics
If you could add your own test, what would it be? An AirDyne for time and calories. What’s your diet like? I eat baby food throughout the day. I don’t have a lot of time to eat, so I eat protein bars and baby food and then I’ll have a big meal. Usually I’ll eat a burger for dinner—with cheese, bacon, bun, the works. Did you prepare specifically for the AFM FITTEST or did you just rely on
your regular training routine? I was going to, but then time caught up to me. I stuck with my regular CrossFit training program because that pretty much covers it all. What goals did you set for yourself? To do the best I could. That’s all I wanted to do. If it got me first place, awesome, but that wasn’t the goal. I just wanted to have fun. I love being out there, meeting new people, giving high-fives, and cheering everyone on. In your own words, what defines a fit person? Someone that can do it all. That’s why I like the AFM FITTEST, because it really showcases athletic ability. How did you feel on event day? Nervous. What’s your next goal to achieve? I’m buckling down with CrossFit, and I’m trying to compete at a high level with that. You ran the fastest mile and fastest interval run, but also placed top three in pull-ups and battle ropes. How do you find balance in speed, endurance and strength? You have to work on your weaknesses. I think genetics play a big part in it as well. CrossFit has helped me work on my weaknesses, and forces me to do the things I don’t want to do in order to be balanced.
What or who motivates you? My family. And my husband—he’s pushed me to do things I didn’t think I could do. I think a lot of it is self-motivation too. Having a gymnastics background has helped also. Family support is huge. My family always comes out and supports me in no matter what I do. How did the AFM FITTEST compare to your expectations? I did better than I thought! I thought I would do well but didn’t think I was going to win.
07.16 / austinfItmagazine.com
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