After doing CrossFit for years, Veerle got certified to teach Kids the most fun fitness method… CrossFit! Our CrossFit Kids program is thriving as we speak, with over 30 kids enrolled at two programs (CrossFit Kids & Teens), and coach Veerle is our newest asset. A hardworking mom of two and very passionate about teaching kids a fun and healthy lifestyle.

Get to know coach Veerle!

Age: 39

Can you tell us a bit about you and your sporting background?
When I was a kid I played all kinds of sports, like athletics, horse riding and tennis. Later I started running to eventually begin CrossFit in 2016. Because I think CrossFit is awesome I decided to do the CrossFit level 1 Course last year.

What made you want to try it in the beginning?
Apart from the running I was searching for an additional sport. My brother was doing CrossFit and he told me about it. So I did a trial class and became really enthusiastic, because Crossfit is a fantastic workout for your whole body. Above all it is constantly varied and always challenging you on your own level.

What is your favorite aspect of being a CrossFit coach?
I love working with kids, teach them about CrossFit so they will gain self-confidence and become fitter. Also I would love to help them to develop a healthy lifestyle , which I hope that they hold on to for the rest of their lives. All of this combined with lots of fun.

When and how did you find out about CrossFit Heerlen?
My brother was doing CrossFit for a couple months and he told me about it.

What made you apply?
When I was asked to join Nadesch as a kids coach I immediately said yes. It is a great opportunity to develop myself as a coach so that I will be able to help the kids develop both mentally and physically.

As a coach, what is the best advice you can give to early CrossFitters? And what advice would you give to some one who might be interested in trying CrossFit but is too nervous or feels like they need to get into better shape first?
My first advice is: be patient in learning, listen to your body and you will see that progress will follow. My second advice is don’t be afraid to start: CrossFit is for everyone, because you can scale all movements to your own level of fitness.

What was your first CrossFit WOD ever?
As far as I can remember it was a planking challenge with the song “Bring Sally up, bring Sally down”. I also remember that it was really challenging.

What’s your favourite CrossFit WOD?
A WOD including running or DU combined with a gymnastic part like toes to bars or HSPU.

And what’s your favourite CrossFit movement/exercise?
Toes to bars and clean and jerk.

What’s your favourite workout music (genre and/or track)?
All kinds of dance music.

What are some of your favourite activities outside the box?
I like to go out with my kids and/or friends. I also like to relax and watch Netflix.

Finally, what is your ultimate goal in CrossFit and/or at CrossFit Heerlen?
My ultimate goal is to help people reaching their goals step by step. Further I would like to develop myself in being a better coach and athlete every day. And in my opinion Crossfit Heerlen is the best possible place to achieve this, because of the greatness of our community!