June Member of the month // Yan Xie
How did you first get involved with Blitz?
I first came across Blitz in early 2024 while I was teaching Pilates in Twickenham. One of my students mentioned it, and the name stuck with me. Later, I looked it up online and decided to check out the gym—it turned out to be just five minutes from where I live. At the time, CrossFit was completely new to me, but I knew I needed something different, so I didn’t overthink it. I just thought, “Why not?” and jumped in. It turned out to be one of the best spontaneous decisions I’ve made.
What is your most memorable CrossFit moment so far?
It has to be the first time I saw a woman back squatting 38kg like it was nothing. I was standing there with just a 20kg bar, absolutely stunned. I remember thinking, how the f* is she doing that?! It was the first moment I truly realised how strong and inspiring this community is and how much potential we all have to grow.
What is your favourite movement/workout?
It’s really hard to choose. There are so many I love for different reasons. I enjoy rope climbs, cleans, snatches, box jumps, and anything involving the erg machines. I think it’s because they make me feel powerful and resilient. They’re fun, dynamic, and constantly remind me of what my body is capable of.
What is your least favourite movement/workout?
All the movements I haven’t mastered yet—especially gymnastics like HSPUs and handstand walks. It’s not that I dislike them; quite the opposite. I actually admire them and know I’ll come to love them once I can do them confidently. Just like I did with wall balls - what started out as a struggle with 3kg has now turned into excitement when I see a WOD with RX wall balls. These movements are “least favourite” only because they’re still a work in progress.
Name a CrossFit goal you hope to achieve by the end of this year
I’m not someone who tends to set goals around specific movements. For me, it’s more about staying consistent, maintaining my training rhythm, preserving my fitness age, and feeling fabulous. If I keep showing up, the rest will follow.
What do you do when you’re not training at Blitz?
I run quite a bit, usually 5K or 10K on a good day, sometimes longer. I also do a lot of stretching and Pilates, which helps with recovery and keeping my body balanced. I enjoy spinning now and then, too. When I’m travelling, I hike, scuba dive, and freedive. Outside of fitness, I love exploring creative hobbies like pottery, jewellery making, and other handcrafts. I’m always up for a good glass of wine, a theatre performance, or a film night. Life is busy and amazing!
What is your favourite part of being a Blitz member?
The community, without a doubt. There’s such a strong sense of belonging here. People know and support each other, and genuinely want to see one another succeed. Whether cheering someone on during a workout or working as a team during a challenge, the motivation is contagious. It’s the kind of environment that keeps you coming back.
If you could give a new member one piece of advice what would it be?
Get involved in all the games and challenges. They are honestly the best way to push your limits, connect with others, and grow both mentally and physically. Winning does NOT matter - it’s the participation that transforms you. Just stay with the vibe.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself….
I have a slightly obsessive (but totally wholesome) habit of photographing the whiteboard before every class. I always make sure I get that shot. If I ever forget, I’ll literally go back to the box just to snap it. It’s my way of tracking the journey—one WOD at a time.
