This lifestyle I have chosen affords me the opportunity to prove every day I can do anything I put my mind to.
1. Tell us a little about yourself.
Hey there! I’m Kiery. I was born and raised in a small town just a few hours east of Dallas, which is the city I now call my home. Initially, I began my career as an RN in the emergency room, but was hungry for something more challenging. After two years, I continued to work and learn my trade while going back to school for my masters as a Family Nurse Practitioner and that’s what I do today! I currently work at an Internal Medicine clinic just outside the city.
2. What’s a typical day look like for you?
My days typically start with some TLC for my favorite boy dog, Boss, then breakfast on the go at my new favorite spot, Brewed and Pressed. Best healthy shakes and snacks! From there it’s on to work! I typically see patients beginning at 8:00A and wrap up around 4:30P. On any given day I can see between 15-25 patients. I primarily treat patients with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension, but every now and then I get the chance to stitch and give joint injections. It’s great because my job gives me the opportunity to make a difference and educate patients on proper nutrition and ways to improve their lifestyle. After work, it’s off to the gym!!
I always train out of Crossfit Dallas Central, however the locations vary (they have four). I find myself working out between 60 and 90 minutes a day. I usually give myself an extra 30 minutes for accessory work and recovery stretching. Dinner is next, typically Whole Foods or the infamous Kozy’s (Yummm!!) Post dinner, Boss and I head out for a walk and shortly thereafter, its bed so I can do it all over again.
3. How did you get started on your current fitness journey?
I’ve always been active. From my early years to now! From cheerleading to track and dabbling with other organized sports along the way. For the last 4 years, I have been training functionally through Crossfit. I was introduced to this methodology by a friend of mine at work. I noticed over the course of a few months some serious changes to her body (for the better of course) and had to ask. She brought me to a class and the rest is history. Once I shook off the soreness (it lasted for about 4 days by the way), I was hooked and have been doing it consistently ever since!
4. What’s one goal you’re currently training to accomplish by December 31, 2016?
In Crossfit, nobody’s perfect and there is always room for improvement. I’ll be the first to say I have a laundry list of weaknesses I’m working on! However, as of late, I’m focusing on the strict handstand push-up. I have no problem do 1 or 2 or even 3, but stringing together 8-10, no way!
5. What’s one life goal you’re currently pursuing outside of fitness?
This is a tough question, but here goes! I strive to wake up and be better every day, not only in the gym or personal life, but in my profession as well. Some days are easier than others! In my profession I have the opportunity to help others each and every day. This is incredibly rewarding and I want to continue to learn and grow through my experiences and education to give world-class treatment and care. And who knows, maybe partnering or running a clinic of my own is in my future! Never say never!
6. What does it mean to you to Compete Every Day?
I feel this phrase can be applied to many different aspects in life. For me it means leading an overall healthy lifestyle and challenging yourself each and everyday. I find that Crossfit is pretty good at checking those boxes daily. The methodology may not be for everyone, but the lifestyle it promotes and instills is! It will make you a better person both physically and mentally each day you set a foot in the gym, and I love that!
7. What is one obstacle you’re proud you’ve overcome?
In my early years, school didn’t come easy. One of my proudest moments was the day I opened my acceptance letter to my masters program at UAMS. Throughout middle and high school, I was no more than your average student. I did what was necessary to get by. It wasn’t until my late college years that I really clicked and I figured out how to study effectively.
Once I hit my stride there was no turning back. My grades went from average to exceptional almost overnight. From struggling through school to graduating with honors in such a challenging field was an amazing feeling and accomplishment. I have to say that I attribute some of my success to the methodology of Crossfit. My journey in the gym taught me discipline, how to deal with adversity, that I could do anything I put my mind to!!
Since graduation and now that I have started my career the correlation of fitness and success still runs in parallel. I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for me.
8. What/who do you compete for?
I compete for myself, to be better than I was the day before. This lifestyle I have chosen affords me the opportunity to prove every day I can do anything I put my mind to. Balancing a career and competitive training isn’t easy but, I’ve always wanted the chance to compete with a team at the regional level. If I’m lucky, I’ll get my shot one day before I get old and gray! 
Connect with Kiery: Instagram