CrossFitter of the Year 2008

Everyone is working hard, but one person has given it their all, putting their blood, sweat, and tears into CrossFit this past year, that athlete is Niki “Schnoopie” Weden.  From only doing CrossFit because she was being told to, to waking up early and watching videos, to reading and researching as much as she can, to practicing her skills and improving her movements, Niki has exemplified what it means to be a true CrossFitter.

She has gone from literally zero pullups to 15 consecutive, from squatting the bar to an easy 155lbs., from a 95lb. Deadlift to a 195lb. Deadlift., pound for pound she cannot be touched.  She gave it her all this year in the inaugural East Coast Challenge and turned in an outstanding performance.

Her successes are not limited to the gym, she has hit the CrossFit certification circuit, attending a Level I, rowing, two Olympic Lifting, a Barbell, and Kettlebell cert, with gymnastics and a second Level I in the coming weeks.

Understanding nutrition is a huge part of the equation, Niki has studied and lives by a mostly Paleo-Zone diet, and enjoys an occasional cheat meal of Sushi, pizza, and of course some Peanut-Butter Pandemonium. 

When not improving her own fitness, Niki enjoys helping everyone improve theirs.  She gives most of the introductory sessions, loves talking nutrition and zone, and is great at teaching any of the exercises.  

Niki continues to challenge herself and push herself to the highest CrossFit standards.  Her future goals are a 525lb. CFT, to complete “Linda” rx’d, do a sub 6 minute “Fran”, and hit 25 consecutive pullups among others. 

Niki from Albany CrossFit on Vimeo.