#GORGOgirl Life: Christie VandenDries

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Meet CHRISTIE VANDENDRIES:

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I would characterize my fitness life as full of seasons: seasons to rest, seasons to push limits, and seasons to enjoy. Growing up and even into adulthood, I never considered myself athletic. Like many women, I’ve traversed the fitness pendulum being the endless cardio queen to a strong, empowered weightlifting woman. I’ve also been the overly restrictive calorie counting to the secret binge eating queen.

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I’m a woman of many dimensions. I’m a full time working mom in a professional career, certified Revelation Wellness Instructor, and active volunteer in our community. My greatest joy comes from doing everyday life with my soul mate, Drew, and daughter, Kate. They are my reason to stay healthy, strong, and fit. I want to keep up with them and enjoy as many adventures and moments as possible with them.

 

What Christie Loves About GORGO:

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I never considered myself an athlete. That changed after attending Camp Gorgo and working with Sascha Teems, Christie Nix, and Erica Willick. Being surrounded by women who uplift, motivate, inspire, and empower one another was a game changer for me. Through a barbell, I found my strength by facing deep rooted fears and wrestling with self-doubt. In 2016, I chose the word BOLD to guide me. It was/is inspired by 2 Timothy 1:7, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, love, and sound mind.” That year, I competed in my first figure competition, which I once thought was impossible. While I did not place well, my 2-year-old daughter gave me the best trophy a mom could ask for. That day she cupped my face with her tiny hands, pulled me close, and said, “Mommy, you’re so beautiful. Mommy, I’m so proud of you.” It is those moments that do not tarnish with age, and it’s those moments when you see your light reflected back to you. Fast forward to today, I may not have the body of a bodybuilding competitor, but you’ll still find me with a barbell in my hands, Reving the Word, and being an encourager to those around me.