Did you know the Coach Dina is Canadian? She grew up in Dubai. Her parents are Egyptian. Dina got her Masters at USC in 2015. Her best friend is a four legged kind named Bullet. Maybe you’ve met him? Not only does Dina just coach CrossFit, she also does personal training. She takes hard workers only.
1. What inspired you to become a fitness coach?
Growing up playing every sport I could, I always wanted to pursue fitness as a career but was often talked out of it. I always knew that through sport and fitness, I was able to learn a ton about myself and grow in so many ways I didn’t think possible, so to get the opportunity to offer that to others is pretty great. After making a comment about wanting to pursue it to my girlfriend, she asked me what was stopping me and I didn’t have a real answer.
2. What's one piece of advice you'd give to someone just starting their fitness journey?
Don’t skip the basics. The more reps you get on the foundational movements, the stronger that structure will be. People always want to skip to the sexy stuff but haven’t put in the work that will make those things bulletproof.
3. What's your favorite way to unwind and recover after a tough workout?
Hanging with my dogs and eating all the food.
4. Can you share a memorable moment from your own fitness journey?
A few years ago I went from hitting 50 C2B pull ups FT in 12-13 min to 3-4 min after working the basics and with tons of strict work. Seeing that progress through hard work and with such a great roadmap to guide me, sticks me through all my moments. Put in the reps.
5. How do you stay motivated on days when you're not feeling 100%?
The goals don’t change whether I’m motivated or not. Focus on the goals.
6. What's your go-to pre-workout snack or meal?
Starbucks marshmallow dream bar FTW
7. How do you personalize training for athletes of different skill levels in a group setting? I try to learn from those who know more than me so I can have as many tools in my toolbox as possible and ensure that I speak a language they will respond to most. I can’t say the same thing in the same way to everyone, people respond to different things and learning the language that works best for them is vital. Meet people where they’re at with as many tools to help them as possible.
8. How do you see the future of CrossFit and strength training evolving?
Women are getting stronger and stronger and it’s great. The sport has begun to reflect that but it’s still trying to catch up to that in some aspects.
