When she’s not doing techy things for Ama-Whole-Foods-zon or playing with her doggo, you can likely find Ari Olsh bangin’ out back extensions on the GHD or sleeping in her bed because she signed up for the 6:30am and then cancelled last-minute.

That’s right: this month’s member spotlight is shinin’ on our resident Russian and probably coolest member, Ari Olsh!

Q: You tried a few gyms before Renew, so what made you stick around here?

A: I really like how tight knit and friendly Renew feels. Folks really engage and make an effort to get to know each other.

Q: What is your favorite thing about CrossFit in general?

A: Like many others, I love the sense of community that comes with CrossFit. The feeling that regardless of someone’s individual fitness level or ability, we all share the same goal of becoming better. And also I love the fact that I have to register for class and someone then expects me to be there because, let’s be honest, if I wasn’t held accountable in some way, I would never show up.

Q: Where are you from originally and where is your favorite place you’ve lived?

A: I’m originally from Odessa, a coastal city in Ukraine, but ethnically I’m Russian. My first language is Russian. (Yes, it’s true. I’m spying on all of you for Mother Russia). My favorite place I’ve lived is Atlanta. Atlanta is super diverse and very green. Similarly to Austin, it has a rich culture with lots of stuff to do, eat, and see every weekend. It was also my first Southern experience after being a lifelong Yankee, and like all firsts it holds a special place in my heart.

Q: If you had all the monies, what would you do?

A: Go to Iceland.  

Q: What are your fitness goals for next year?

A: Improve all of my gymnastic and bodyweight movements. Push-ups, pull-ups, handstand push ups, ring rows, all that stuff. I’d also like to learn to walk to my hands.

And there you have it. So next time you see Ari stroll in a few minutes after class time, first, congratulate her for showing up. And then ask her about Putin. She’ll love it.

We love you, Ari. So glad you chose (and continue to choose) Renew as your gym home! Long live Mother Russia! (Just kidding. Texas forever.)