Jamie Simmonds: A CrossFit Journey

Jamie Simmonds, recognized as the Third Fittest Woman on Earth in 2019, is an esteemed international CrossFit Games champion and serves as an ambassador for the plant - based nutrition company Nuzest.

Prior to her CrossFit stardom, Simmonds had a background in gymnastics and rugby. She made a significant mark in the CrossFit competition arena in 2016 when she achieved podium success as part of team CrossFit Yas. Since then, she has participated in the CrossFit Games on five occasions, held the title of national champion for six years, and secured multiple high - placing finishes on the podium. However, this season, she had to prematurely end her participation due to a shoulder injury sustained during training.

During her recovery period, we had the opportunity to interview her and gain insights into her remarkable journey.

Q&A Session

1. Introduction

Q: For those unfamiliar with you, who is Jamie Simmonds Greene?

A: I am Jamie Simmonds (formerly Greene), hailing from Dunedin, New Zealand. Over the past six years, I have competed in the CrossFit Games, two of which were as part of a team and four as an individual athlete. My most notable achievements include a 3rd - place finish in 2016 with Team CrossFit Yas and a 3rd - place individual finish in 2019. Presently, I reside and train as a full - time athlete in Cardiff.

2. Initial Interest in CrossFit

Q: What initially piqued your interest in CrossFit?

A: Initially, my mother gifted me a six - week pass for Christmas to re - engage me in fitness. At that time, I was actively involved in rugby, but I also had a penchant for consuming a fair amount of beer. Initially, I was not overly enthusiastic, particularly about the gymnastics aspect. However, as I became more dedicated, I developed a profound love for CrossFit. After approximately 12 years of playing rugby, I transitioned to competing in CrossFit.

3. Challenges on the Path to Success

Q: What challenges did you encounter on your way to your current position?

A: I have faced numerous challenges, yet they are an integral part of the experience. Without these challenges, I would not have evolved into the athlete I am today, nor would I possess my current skill set. I have endured several injuries, including a snapped Achilles tendon, a subluxed shoulder, and a dislocated shoulder. Through a series of surgeries, I have gleaned valuable lessons from each of these setbacks. Additionally, I relocated to the Middle East, where I was engaged in extensive work. This presented its own set of difficulties, but I have had the privilege of meeting many individuals who have contributed to my current success.

4. The Best Aspect of Competing

Q: What is the most rewarding part of competing?

A: The pre - competition nerves, achieving personal records (PRs), learning from mistakes, receiving support, competing against fellow athletes, and having the opportunity to showcase the fruits of my training all combine to make the nervous anticipation worthwhile. Competing is an exhilarating aspect of CrossFit.

5. Post - Competition Rituals

Q: What is the one thing you always do after a competition?

A: I do not adhere to any specific rituals. Typically, I take a brief hiatus from the gym, reconnect with people, and allow my body to unwind. This often involves enjoying one or two beers.

6. Managing Competition Nerves

Q: Do you still experience nerves when you compete? What do you do to calm them before a competition?

A: Yes, I do. However, I embrace the feeling of nervousness. I strive to ride the wave of these emotions and utilize them to enhance my performance.

7. Mental Strategies Under Pressure

Q: Do you employ any mental strategies or tools when under pressure or feeling self - doubt?

A: Yes, I focus on returning to the fundamentals. I reflect on my motivation for participating in the sport, what I genuinely cherish about it, and the life it affords me. This approach typically enables me to regain my composure promptly. I am fortunate to have the support of friends, family, and sponsors, which allows me to compete at this level.

8. Challenges Faced by CrossFitters

Q: What do you perceive as the most significant challenges that most CrossFitters encounter today? Are you affected by any of these?

A: Currently, I believe the most substantial challenge is the issue of comparison, exacerbated by social media. It can lead to self - doubt, such as questioning whether one is training hard enough, using the right training methods, or measuring up to personal standards. In reality, each individual is on their unique journey, which should be embraced. This may have influenced me during the COVID - 19 pandemic, as in - person competitions were limited. This made it difficult to assess the effectiveness of my training, resulting in self - second - guessing. Another challenge is overcomplicating training. In essence, it is often the simple, fundamental elements that enhance fitness. By focusing on these and working diligently, sometimes slowing down can actually accelerate progress in terms of skills and strength.

9. Recovery Workouts

Q: Do you have a preferred workout or training routine during your recovery?

A: I am partial to workouts involving bodyweight exercises or gymnastics - inspired movements, which I typically incorporate first. I also enjoy running, especially during the summer months in the UK, taking advantage of the available sunshine.

10. Staying Motivated in Recovery

Q: How do you maintain motivation to train during your recovery?

A: Post - injury, there is often more work to be done. Recognizing the gaps in my performance, I channel all my energy into rectifying these areas. This keeps me engaged and motivated. Additionally, it is easier when my husband spends extended hours in the gym; where else would I rather be?

11. Recovery Goals

Q: What are your personal goals during your recovery period?

A: My objective is to return stronger and fitter than before. I am aware of an existing imbalance, and my aim is to address this and come back without it.

12. Specific Recovery - Phase Goals

Q: Do you have a goal you're working towards during your recovery period? If so, what is it? How will you achieve it?

A: I aspire to return for the second half of the season, participating in all competitions outside of the CrossFit Games qualification. I am collaborating closely with my physiotherapist and coach to regain proficiency in all movements before the second half of the year.

13. Long - Term Goals

Q: What are some of the goals you hope to accomplish in the next 5 - 10 years?

A: In the next 5 - 10 years, I hope to return to New Zealand, definitely within 10 years. In the context of CrossFit, I aim to explore the limits of my physical and mental capabilities at the elite level. For instance, I want to determine how much I can optimize my daily life while still maintaining peak performance and enjoying the process.

14. Advice for Aspiring CrossFitters

Q: Do you have any advice or tips for aspiring CrossFitters?

A: Enjoy the journey. Do not take yourself too seriously and always adhere to the basics, as they are essential. Take care of your body, learn proper nutrition, and listen to your body when it needs rest. These are lessons I am still learning, and they make this journey an enjoyable one.