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Last year we held the biggest action we have held so far: Win Your Gym, where one person had the chance to win 10.000 euros worth of Lifemaxx/Crossmaxx® products. Charlotte Maris was the lucky winner of this unique prize and is now realizing her dream: her own gym! ‘Kracht Amsterdam’ officially opens Saturday March 9! In this blog Charlotte talks about making her dreams come true and the equipment she has chosen from the 10.000 euros.
What was your ‘fit’ dream?
"In 2013 I first came into contact with crossfit and I was immediately hooked. In addition to striving to improve myself as an athlete, one of my biggest passions is helping people. I found this passion in coaching crossfit lessons. Last year I founded the ‘Kracht Foundation’, a non-profit foundation, to make one of my dreams come true: lifelong sports and exercise for every citizen of Amsterdam to become fit and healthy and to connect people. I enjoy teaching immensely and I hope to inspire and motivate people to live an active and healthy life. My other dream was to start a gym and to make my passion my profession. I was already busy working behind the scenes and had already chosen a name: ‘Kracht Amsterdam’.
What went through your head when you heard you won WYG?
"I can still remember that very clearly I was training like every Wednesday morning, as usual without a telephone. Towards the end of the training I wanted to film a set of Deadlifts, but when I looked at my phone and saw that I had about 30 missed messages with congratulations. For a moment I did not understand it since it wasn’t my birthday that day but when I opened my Instagram it became clear: I had won the WYG campaign. I almost could not believe it! A cry of joy came from my mouth, followed by a gigantic smile on my face. I jubilated to everyone that I had won and we spontaneously did a joyful dance together. Then I called my family to tell the joyful news and of course they were very happy for me. "
How did winning WYG make your dream come true?
"The biggest obstacle to starting my own gym was finding a suitable space in Amsterdam. After a long search I came to the conclusion that an existing space was not an option, so if I wanted to realize my dream I would have to build something new. Fast forward I struck the first peg in the ground last summer and meanwhile we are in the middle of the completion phase. On 1 February 2019 I gave the first lessons and the big festive opening is on the 9th of March. The WYG campaign ensured that I was much more free in selecting materials for my gym because it made my budget much more spacious. So I really had the freedom to purchase all the desired materials in the right quantity and that made the process a lot less stressful. In fact, I have experienced it as very nice: I felt like a child in a candy store! "
What equipment did you choose from the 10,000 euros?
"I have bought a number of standard materials that I will use in my classes such as dumbbells, competition kettlebells, mini bands, wallballs and sleds. In addition, I also opted for a beautiful Crossmaxx® Olympic competition barbell for everyone in the lesson. I also treated myself to a set of jerk blocks and competition plates, something that had been on my wish list for a long time! I can not wait to train with it. "
Can you tell us something about ‘Kracht’
’Kracht’ s more than just a gym because we are full of enthusiasm to make our members physically, mentally and socially stronger. Movement is a way of life for us, that's why natural body movements are key to us. This is how we stay healthy, happy and energetic. Within the walls of ‘Kracht’ one escapes the issues of the day. No judgments or strange looks but exercise together, relax, have fun and be yourself. That's how I always had it in mind and I'm glad that this has now become reality.”
Now that your dream has come true, how do you use ‘Kracht’ to help others achieve their goals / dreams?
By always training our members in small groups under the guidance of a knowledgeable and enthusiastic trainer. Regardless of everyone's current experience or level, we have an appropriate lesson. Our three signature trainings are all a great workout: KRACHT 60, KRACHT 45 and KRACHT 30. In addition, we also offer yoga. Whether people are looking for the most intense training in the world, or just sweating for half an hour, they are in good hands with us! In addition, we build a community of people who help each other to get better. "
Read more about ‘Kracht’ on social media. Is it also your dream to open your own gym/box? Send us a message to see how we can help you!
