A long-time cross country and track runner, Irma discovered CrossFit for the first time last year and says that finding Windy City has been like finding a home away from home. We're so excited to have her as our first 2020 athlete because she defines living BIG as showing up for your loved ones, showing love to everyone, and making others laugh—something she claims her evening class "goon squad" excels at. This is well deserved, Irma! Congrats!!

Nickname: Irms, Irmy, irmita lupita

Member since: Feb 2019

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”
– Dr. Seuss

I was born and raised in San Antonio, TX. I also went to undergrad in college, at University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) where I ran cross country and track & field and met some of my closest friends. In my last year of undergrad, I began applying to Physical Therapy school. I was convinced I would never leave Texas. However, I applied to and was accepted at Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL. Attending the program was my first time leaving home and it was one of the best decisions I made. I was able to grow as a person and find out who I really am. I decided to move to Chicago after I completed my program. While living here, I have begun my career as a Pediatric Physical Therapist.

It was after a few months, I decided I wanted to try CrossFit. It was something I had wanted to try for some time but was too nervous to get out of my comfort zone. I had asked a close friend of mine which gyms were reputable. She recommended Windy City. As soon as she said that, I walked in the door the next day. It was like finding a home away from home.

Training at Windy City has helped me on my journey of becoming who I am. Being around positive people every day at the gym has helped me find happiness. It has also helped shape a positive mindset in life. I try not to dwell on the negative aspects of life and Windy City has helped me in that regard.

It helps me let go of stress and distraction at the door. It means getting to hang out with my goon squad. Some of my biggest laughter comes from the goon squad. We are truly a family and support each other’s life and fitness goals. I enjoy training with them every night.

What does living BIG mean to you?

Growing up, my Tia (aunt) was my hero. She was the type of person to always show up to family parties and go to my basketball games. She never missed an important event in my life. You can catch her walking into graduation ceremonies with hundreds of congratulatory balloons and hear her scream your name across a room. She had a boisterous laugh and the biggest heart. She recently passed but her life has greatly impacted mine. She taught me how to live BIG. To me, living BIG is showing up for your loved ones, showing love to everyone, and making others laugh.

What would you do and where would you go if time / money were not object?

I would go to South America to visit Patagonia. It has always been a dream of mine to go and see the marine life there.

What adventures, events, trips, races do you have planned?

My recent trips include visiting my family in Texas for weddings and family gatherings.

I have not decided on races for 2020 quite yet; however, I do plan on running 2020 Chicago Marathon though!

What are your goals:

• Fitness: qualify for Boston marathon, get hand stand push ups and work on my snatch form
• Professionally: continue to grow in my field and work towards becoming a board certified specialist in Pediatric Physical Therapy

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

I love all things DISNEY

Words to Live By

“Run with purpose” – 1Cor 9:26