We have the best community at enduraLAB and Paulina is a prime example. She is cycling biologist who's passions involved helping animals and volunteering at the botanical gardens. She loves a good adventure and has even been on an enduraVENTURE! Read more to find out what brought her to the LAB and what is keeping her here.
What brought you to enduraLAB?
I was on a work trip and planning to move back to Fort Worth when I booked a tour and it also happened to be a weekend when Buds and Suds was happening, so I tried it and I loved it. I was looking for a community-based gym where I could find like-minded people that enjoy physical activity and that's exactly what enduraLAB is.
What did your workout routine look like before joining the LAB?
I tried different things, from just doing cardio on my own, to doing Garmin training programs and/or apps and working online with a personal trainer (because of the pandemic), but it always felt incomplete. It's definitely more fun for me to train with more people and to have challenging and varied workouts vs doing the same thing all the time.
What healthy changes have you made since joining the LAB?
The most important one is that I am more consistent. The different clubs and workouts keep it interesting, so I'm more motivated to go and/or workout in general, even if I can't go to the LAB.
Tell us what you do outside of the LAB?
I am a Biologist and I currently work for a pasta company. I perform microbiological tests for food safety. Other than that, I am a cyclist enthusiast and I try to ride as much as I can. I also volunteer at the Animal Care and Control Center and the Botanical Gardens.
How have you grown as an athlete since joining the LAB? Brag a little.
I definitely feel stronger and in better shape overall. My energy level is great and stable and I feel happy and motivated. I didn't know training with the barbell would be so fun. It looked intimidating before so I'm really happy I changed that perspective. I've also learned about recovery, stretches and many exercises I didn't know before. And I've met a lot of great people!
What is a goal you have set for yourself in the next 6 months?
I want to become stronger and improve my overall fitness. In Particular, I want to improve my Functional Threshold Power to do longer and more challenging bike rides and learn more about how to balance nutrition according to my specific workout needs.
What is your favorite enduraLAB event or program?
I liked all the end-of-the-year workouts to be honest. Holiday Hustle, Hell week, the 12 Days of Enduralab ....And of course, I really loved going to Missoula- EnduraVENTURES.
What advice would you have for a new person starting at enduraLAB?
Try it all, running, rucking and the events. You won't regret it. Also, everyone is very nice, so if you need help just ask and you'll for sure get it. Oh and don't look at Sugarwood beforehand LOL.
If we had a workout in honor of you, what would it be called and what would it consist of?
I don't know! Probably a leg workout haha and/or something with the bikes.
Favorite treat meal/restaurant in D/FW?
I really like Righteous Foods and Local Foods Kitchen
Current read / podcast?
Survival of the Friendliest - Understanding our origins and rediscovering our common humanity - by Brian Hare and Vanessa Woods. Podcasts when I'm driving - Modern Love - and- The Happiness Lab.
Pump up song?
Haha right now it's an oldie --> Forever Young - Rezidential Remix
Any final words or thoughts?
I'm very grateful I found EnduraLAB, I've really enjoyed being part of this community! 😀
