Lauri Schindler 

By: Jenessa Connor 

Before joining CrossFit 718, Lauri Schindler wondered if she’d ever feel like a “real” member of such a dynamic community. A local business owner and mom to college-aged children, she was older than the average 718 athlete. Many of the lifts and bodyweight movements were new to her, so she kept her weights well below the prescribed level and modified most movements.

But guidance and encouragement from Coach Dariel helped her realize that scaling workouts, modifying as needed and setting personal goals that were both challenging and realistic were all integral parts of CrossFit.

Three years later, Lauri is still an active member of CrossFit 718. In addition to feeling stronger, Lauri has seen remarkable improvements in her health, specifically in regards to her bone density. Prior to joining CrossFit 718, she had been diagnosed with osteoporosis. After consistently CrossFitting for over a year, her doctor was amazed to find that her bone density had improved significantly; she no longer had osteoporosis.

For that reason (and so many others!) we’re glad that Lauri stuck with CrossFit. She and her husband Ronny have become invaluable members of our community. We’re so excited to have their local business, The Park Slope Day Camp, as sponsors for CrossFit 718’s Beat the Streets Throwdown on July 30th!

Read our Q & A with Lauri to learn more about this stellar athlete!

How did you learn about CrossFit?

Years before I joined, I met a coach at a party down in Delaware. She was my dear friend’s niece. My friend started CrossFitting right away, but it took me time until I found a way to work the routine into my life.

What kinds of changes have you noticed since starting CrossFit? 

Believe it or not, CrossFit has cured me of my body aches. It has helped me greatly increase my mobility. As we all know, there’s always going to be a new sore spot, but our amazing coaches have taught me how and when to modify without feeling that my workout is any less worthwhile. And I eat very well, even when it’s not from Kettlebell Kitchen.

How do you make time for working out?

I put it in my calendar. Everyone I work with knows where I’ll be and respects that.

What’s your favorite lift?

It’s between bench pressing and snatching. I like the way the bench press mixes things up, and it’s fun to work with partners. The snatch is simply a beautiful movement, and I love trying to make it smoother, faster and heavier with every attempt.

What recent achievement are you most proud of?

My SIX rope climbs! There was a time when I was hurting so badly that I couldn’t even do one pull. But it’s scary up there!

What goal are you currently working on?

Sitting down to watch my first episode of Game of Thrones.

What do you do when you’re not at the box? 

I’m the Administrator at the Park Slope Day Camp. I’m active in the community and am particularly passionate about bicycling and safe streets. I do Iyengar Yoga. I enjoy travelling and love my husband Ronny and two amazing kids to pieces.

The Park Slope Day Camp is sponsoring the Beat the Streets Throwdown. Why did you decide to partner with CrossFit 718 on this event?  

It’s the perfect event for us because it’s all about kids and community. Just the way Tam and Iz believe in Ronny and me, we are thrilled to come out and support their charitable work.