Member Spotlight: Shannon Hilton

Tell us about yourself!

Hi, I’m Shannon. I have lived in Ancaster/Hamilton my entire life. I have been blessed with a wonderful husband and father to our 2 grown sons.

I am a retired Hematology Nurse having worked at the Juravinski Cancer Centre for the last 28 years of my 40 year career.

I have always been active in some way or another.

What got you into CrossFit?

My youngest son got into CrossFit (Alchemy) when he was at University . He would often encourage me to try it out. Apparently there were “old people like me there so there’s nothing to worry about Mom” Haha! He would describe the workouts and I will admit I really didn’t think I could do it.

Eventually my close friend  (and current gym buddy Christine) joined and also tried to convince me but it wasn’t until my oldest son gave me a 10 pass for my birthday that I finally gave it a go. After a couple classes I knew it was something I wanted to do (despite being very intimidated.) It was SO much better than anything I was doing at GoodLife!

What do you like about Alchemy?

There are so many reasons. The coaches are amazing! I feel like every time I go to a class I have the benefit of a personal trainer and the energy of all the others in the class. It’s really fun to workout with lots of young people and to feel like I belong. I am inspired by the hard work and drive of the whole community.

I’m also quite excited that the new gym will be warmer this winter!

What has been your proudest moment at Alchemy?

I think my proudest moment was being able to workout with both my sons. I was also pretty happy when I did 30 double-unders unbroken.

What are your CrossFit goals for the future?

My goals are to keep doing CrossFit, to continue to improve my strength and endurance.

Your perfect workout?

I don’t really have a perfect workout. I like the challenge of arriving at the gym and finding out what we are doing that day. I love that it is always different. 

What is the biggest change you’ve seen since starting CrossFit?

The biggest change I have seen in myself is my confidence in my abilities and my strength. I was able to hike The West Highland Way in Scotland this year, 150km over 7 days. It was a wonderful trip and thanks to Joanie, my feet stayed intact!

When you’re not at the gym, what’s your favourite thing to do?

My very favourite thing to do is spend time with my family. I am also very blessed to have friends who I can hike and cycle with. I can get lost in my garden and spend many hours in that happy place. More sedentary pastimes include reading and recently, knitting.

Favourite Hamilton restaurant?

India Village in Ancaster, hands down!