Shadden Brock
May’s Athlete of the Month
“What has kept me consistent is the huge positive impact on my mental health and well being!”
The Journey.
We sat down with Shadden to learn more about her and her CrossFit journey.
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF?
My name is Shadden Brock. I’m 34. I’m an RN that works in Long Term Care. I love
houseplants, nature, and adventures.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WITH CrossFit First Creek?
I joined CFFC in December or 2025 after moving back to the Knoxville area. I immediately felt
at home and included at CFFC. Everyone was so welcoming!
WHAT MADE YOU START CROSSFIT? WHAT HAS KEPT YOU DOING IT? HAS YOUR
MOTIVATION CHANGED SINCE YOU FIRST STARTED?
I dabbled in crossfit on and off for a few months at a time previously, but really committed to
a regular crossfit routine in November of 2023. What has kept me consistent is the huge
positive impact on my mental health and well being!
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED SINCE JOINING CFFC?
There is such a strong sense of community and comradery here. I’m always excited to tell
folks what I’ve been doing at the gym.
WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST CROSSFIT MOMENT?
Just seeing my progression over time and I’m always proud when coaches notice
improvement as well.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LIFT, MOVEMENT, OR WOD? LEAST FAVORITE?
Favorite: Deadlift, back squats; Least favorite: wall balls
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT CFFC OR JUST CROSSFIT IN GENERAL?
I enjoy the sense of community and support.
WHAT IMPACT HAS CROSSFIT HAD ON YOU IN AND OUT OF THE GYM?
I have a much more positive and confident outlook on life. Endorphins are great.
WHAT ARE YOUR CROSSFIT GOALS? HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO REACHING THEM?
I would love to be able to do a strict pull up and I’m hoping to achieve this by the end of the
year.
WHEN YOU ARE NOT CROSSFITTING, WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO?
I love to thru hike! I’ve completed the Triple Crown: Appalachian Trail(2014), Pacific Crest
Trail(2018), and Continental Divide Trail(2024) over 8,000 miles of backpacking on foot across
the country!
WHAT IS ONE FUN THING ABOUT YOU THAT WE MAY NOT KNOW YET?
I was born overseas in Hong Kong, China and spent about half of my childhood there!
WHAT IS THE ONE TIP YOU’D GIVE SOMEONE CONSIDERING CROSSFIT OR WHO IS NEW
TO CROSSFIT?
Don’t be intimidated. Everyone has started at a similar point to where you are today. Don’t be
afraid to ask questions or scale movements.
WHAT IS YOUR DIET LIKE? HAS IT CHANGED SINCE STARTING CROSSFIT? WHAT IS YOUR
FAVORITE WORKOUT FUEL?
Vegan for over 16 years! I focus on protein and fueling enough for my day!