Athlete of the Month - March 2026

Maureen Briody is our March 2026 Athlete of the Month. It is a much deserved recognition and her name was in the talks by multiple coaches. We are proud of the continuous work put in each week. If you’re short on time, stop here and read Maureen’s answers to the questions instead. You will learn a good amount about her from just a few responses. I first met Maureen when she came in “possibly” looking to join after previously going to my sister’s gym. Tom (Maureen’s husband) had been a member looking to return and he too was actually coached in triathlons by my sister. Maureen was a bit unsure of not only the variety of movements but of herself when she started coming to class here. I’m so glad she stuck it out. The improvement in movement, aerobic capacity, strength, and self awareness to adjust properly when needed is something that is not seen everyday. Hearing Maureen say she finally feels like an athlete being in the gym makes everything we do worth it. She grew up being told constantly that she was not athletic. That’s a tough thing to hear all the time, especially from the ones closest to you. Eventually, most people start believing what’s always said in their ear. It’s great Maureen has not settled with
those words and she is feeling and being athletic through fitness every day in the gym. As much as the 6:45am crew can bust chops, they are great at holding each other accountable. All you regulars in that class, make sure Maureen is in on Engine days. She wants to improve her cardio. Keep tabs on that. Maureen, keep working hard and enjoy the process. The journey is the destination.

Written by: Coach Rob Moloney

———————————
Q&A

First, I want to say, this really means a lot to me.  Growing up, I was always told I was unathletic by my family.  As you could tell when you told me, I never expected to be named athlete of the month.  I was shocked.  But I have to say, for the first time in my life, I feel like an athlete when I am at IP Fitness!

Why did you start functional fitness cross-training? 
My husband Tom has been telling me for years I should try it.  Honestly, the main reason I did not do it was because I was intimidated.  I had been consistently working out since college, walking, jogging, hot yoga and taking aerobics classes at various gyms, but I didn't think I would be able to keep up since the workouts were so different from anything I had done before.

How long have you been a member and how long have you been doing functional fitness? 
Since November 2024

What is your favorite thing about the gym? 
I would say that I really like the coaches and members, the workouts are diverse and fun.  The 6:45 class in particular is a great group of people-super friendly and always make me laugh and start my day in a good mood.  

What is the biggest challenge you have overcome since joining the gym? 
For me, the biggest challenge is mental--just believing I can actually do this stuff.  

What is the biggest change you have made over the years working out here?
I am way more comfortable using weights.  I never did exercises like back squats, bench press, sled pushes, etc., before coming to IP Fitness.

What is one or two favorite moments at the gym? 
I love hanging with Coach Maegan--she always makes me laugh!

What's your favorite "cheat" food? 
Dessert-warm brownie with ice cream

What’s your go to meal to cook?
Any type of shrimp dish, my current one that my family loves is shrimp tacos

What do you say to someone who is thinking about starting? 
Just do it - I always tell people that you can go at your own pace.  No one pushes you to do anything you are not ready for and everyone, coaches and members, are super supportive.

What drives you? 
I like to challenge myself and I like the feeling I get after working out.

What is your biggest fitness goal right now?
Working on improving my cardio.

Who are 3 influential people (alive) who you would want to have dinner with?
Taylor Swift & Amy Poehler & Pope Leo

What is a book, documentary or movie you think everyone needs to check out?
The Alchemist

If you could call anyone 3 people out to do a workout with you, who would it be and what workout?
Stu, Andy and Ralph--of course!  Any workout will do as long as Ralph is complaining about something!