Athlete Spotlight: Meet Sam & Charlie!

Get to know the people who make our Community Strong. This month, we’re catching up with siblings, Sam and Charlie, who joined Defined in 2020/2024.

For Sam and Charlie, a love for fitness runs in the family. Read on to learn more about their story and why they choose this community!

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Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Sam: I grew up in North Carolina and work as a software engineer. I've been CrossFitting for seven years and have been a member of four different CrossFit gyms. I found Defined when I moved to Chicago out of college.

Charlie: I also grew up in North Carolina and work in finance at United Airlines. I started to going to the gym regularly in college. Sam introduced me to CrossFit at home in North Carolina and when I moved to Chicago I started coming to Defined with her.

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Do you have a favorite quote or motto that inspires you or makes you smile?

Sam & Charlie: "Better days ahead," something our grandfather used to say to us.

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What does training at Defined mean to you and for your life?

Sam: Training at Defined is part of my weekly routine. It's how I stay active and reduce stress after work. I also love coming to Defined to see some of my favorite people!

Charlie: Typically I train on my own, so it's nice to train at Defined with other people and a great way to see my sister during the week.

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How has training here helped you become the person you were meant to be?

Sam: CrossFit and strength training increase grit. It helps me be comfortable with being uncomfortable and that translates outside of the gym.

Charlie: Ever since I started training, my self-confidence has increased and I have built more discipline into my life, in and out of the gym.

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What does #MoreThanAGym mean to you?

Sam & Charlie: #MoreThanAGym means that this gym is part of my life. It's a place I'm at every week and it feels like a second home.

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How do you track your progress and measure your success? Are there any particular tools or methods you use?

Sam: I track my progress mostly by my weightlifting numbers and how I feel during the the hardest cardio workouts.

Charlie: I track PRs and track whether I am keeping my weight up.

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What's one piece of advice you'd give someone who is just starting their fitness journey?

Sam: You are stronger than you think you are.

Charlie: Be patient and have fun!

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What are your goals, both in and out of the gym?

Sam & Charlie: In the gym, get stronger. Out of the gym, make time for family and friends, travel, and have fun!

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What is one thing that most people don't know about you?

Sam: I was a 3x high school state champion in swimming!

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Charlie: I was planning on moving to Texas for work at the beginning of this year, and last minute took a job in Chicago!

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Final statement/words to live by?

Sam & Charlie: Lift heavy!

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Thanks for being a part of our community, Sam and Charlie!

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