Hannah Black: An Inspiring Journey to the CrossFit Games
By: Tiffany Ammerman & Hannah Black
From a casual start to rigorous training, Hannah Black shares her experiences, challenges, and the unwavering support that has fueled her drive. In this exclusive interview, learn what it takes to compete at the highest level and how Invictus coaching and programming plays a pivotal role in her preparation for The CrossFit Games! Read below for Hannah Black’s CrossFit Games Journey
What inspired you to start competing in CrossFit?
I first tried CrossFit as a fun way to stay fit after I was done playing volleyball in college. Back then, I definitely cherry-picked workouts and wouldn’t come to the gym if there was running. After about two years of doing CrossFit for fun, one of my friends convinced me to start doing a competitor program with him so we could do local competitions together.
How has your training regimen changed since you qualified for the Games?
Since qualifying for the CrossFit Games, I’ve been doing an insane amount of cardio and burpees. I definitely wouldn’t consider either of those things my favorite, but the amount of progress I’ve made in a short amount of time has been really cool!
How do you mentally prepare for such a significant competition? What emotions are you experiencing as the Games approach?
Honestly, nothing will be more terrifying than when I went out by myself at my first semifinals last year. But what I learned is that I know deep down in my heart I’ve done everything I can to prepare, so whatever happens, happens, and I’ll be at peace regardless of the outcome. The biggest emotion that I’ve been experiencing while training for the CrossFit Games is gratitude. I get to work out, I get to work my butt off, I get to be a part of an incredible team through an incredible gym, and that’s such an honor.
How has your support system (coaches, family, friends) helped you on this journey? Can you share a moment when they played a crucial role in your preparation?
There are so many people that have helped me get to where I am today. It truly takes a village to make it this far. I always knew deep down that I was capable of qualifying for the Games, but to have other people who know how hard it is to qualify believing in me as well is such a game-changer. Just like anyone else, I’ve had some really tough times in my CrossFit career, but there’s always been someone there to remind me that this is what I’m made for. I would be nowhere if it wasn’t for my family, coaches, sponsors, and friends. I would love to name all of them, but that would take up the whole page!
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced during your preparation for the Games? How did you overcome it?
I think the biggest challenge that I’ve faced preparing for the CrossFit Games has been not giving myself enough credit for how much better I’ve gotten. I still get anxious when certain workouts come up with weaknesses that I’ve had in the past. Luckily for me, my teammates and coaches are always there to remind me what I’m capable of.
What are your goals for your first CrossFit Games? How do you plan to handle the pressure and excitement of competing on such a large stage?
My team and I didn’t set out to just qualify for the CrossFit Games; we want to win. We’ve got a couple of home run hitters on our team, and we’re going to swing for every chance we get. I’ve always performed my best in competition, and I can’t wait to see what I’m able to do when the pressure is on.
What does a typical day look like for you as you prepare for the Games? How do you manage your nutrition and hydration?
A typical training day for me starts with a 7:30 wake-up, getting to the gym around 8:45 to warm up for our first session that usually lasts about three hours. After that, we break for a little while to eat lunch and recoup, then hit the gym again around 1:30 for our second session that lasts anywhere from three to three and a half hours. After that, I usually head home to do some recovery, which consists of stretching, foam rolling, and every now and then, a sauna/cold plunge. Then I eat dinner around seven and try to be in bed around 10. I work with a nutritionist from CBG who’s helped me immensely in fueling my body the right way. I also have a meal prep company called the Handmade Chef that provides me with super high-quality clean food that keeps me feeling my best!
What have you learned about yourself through this journey to the Games? How do you think competing will impact your future in the sport?
The most important thing that I’ve learned in my CrossFit journey is that I can do hard things. Every time I choose to do a hard thing in the gym, it prepares me for all the actually hard things that I might encounter outside the gym in the real world.
What advice would you give to other athletes aspiring to compete in the CrossFit Games?
The most important advice I could give is not to quit. The world and this sport will try to break you, but you’re stronger than you think. Keep working little by little, and one day you’ll look up and realize that you’re closer to your goals than you ever thought you could be.
Looking back, what are you most proud of in your journey to the Games? What are you most looking forward to experiencing at the CrossFit Games?
I’m most proud of the resilience I’ve developed when I’ve had so many people tell me that I would never make it. It’s really hard to beat someone who never gives up.
The thing I’m looking forward to the most at the CrossFit Games is getting the opportunity to fight alongside my team for a spot on the podium. There’s nothing outside our reach, and I can’t wait to leave it all on the floor.
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