Adventurer of the Month: Katie Quartermaine
Katie is our Adventurer of the Month and embodies what MLA is all about. Her determination and ability to conquer her fears while bouldering at our first Adventure Club event was truly inspiring. Read on to find out more Katie.
1. Have you ever been rock climbing/bouldering before?
Yes, I have been bouldering with friends a handful of times and have always enjoyed the sociable and supportive aspect of the sport.
2. Can you share your initial feelings and thoughts when you first arrived at the rock climbing event with your fear of heights?
I love being active and socialising, and try not to let my fears or anxieties hold me back from joining in.
3. Were there any specific techniques or mental strategies from your CrossFit training that you found useful in managing your fear while rock climbing? How did you adapt your training mindset to this new challenge?
Absolutely, I spent a lot of time this year practising rope climbs to help me get comfortable with heights. My biggest fear is losing my grip and falling from a height! I take one step at a time, pushing myself more and more. That’s the same approach I use with training, when I’m unsure or uncomfortable with a movement or skill, I remind myself to take it step by step.
4. How did the support and encouragement from MLA, instructors, or fellow climbers impact your experience? Were there any specific words of advice or actions from others that had a notable influence on your progress?
The MLA group has been such a warm and welcoming group, and it’s been great to meet and connect with like-minded people. Everyone is super kind and supportive and I didn’t expect to make this type of connection from a short trip away to Crete.
5. Did previous training and gains you've made help you feel strong and confident when getting outside your comfort zone?
Yes, Crossfit has pushed me outside my comfort zones over the years and made me develop and overcome challenges. It has not only made me physically stronger, but has also made me mentally stronger. I no longer avoid doing activities that make me uncomfortable, instead I show up and give it my best attempt.
Thanks so much to Katie for the feature, we were all so proud of you for your fearless determination, and can’t wait to see you at the next event.