Julie Foucher met her match this year in the CrossFit Open—tying first with Nicole Holcomb.

 

This weekend, Foucher and Holcomb, along with other notable names from both the Central East and North Central Regions (including Games vets Stacie Tovar, Elisabeth Akinwale) will go head-to-head, battling out their right to go back to Carson.

 

Last year was Holcomb’s first trip to the big show, after three consecutive Regional appearances, where she finished 32nd overall and walked away with the hunger to do ‘whatever it takes’ to make it back in 2015.

 

In fact, at the Games, Holcomb was actually rehabbing a recent back injury she sustained following Regionals—leaving her unable to go full throttle at game time.

 

Like many athletes who experience the Games for the first time though, Holcomb said the opportunity seasoned her; it was only just the beginning of her resume as, now, an elite athlete.

 

In 2015, Holcomb said she’s made a full recovery and feels stronger than ever.

 

If her Open finish is any preview as to what Holcomb has up her sleeve for this weekend, the competition best be ready.

 

At last year’s Central East Regional, Holcomb opened the weekend with a first place finish on Event 1: a one-rep-max hang squat snatch. After successful openers at 165 and 175 lb., she put up 185 lb. to win the event, and subsequently, finished well within the top 10 across the remaining six events—holding a podium spot all weekend. 

 

Can she do it again?

 

Holcomb spilled her training ‘secrets’ and shared her thoughts on what she thinks is coming.

 

What is your athletic background?

I did 7 years of gymnastics, dabbled in competitive Cheerleading and track and field, and, as for CrossFit, I am now a four-time Regional competitor (2nd place at 2014 Central East Regional, 6th place at 2013 Central East Regional, 12th place at 2012 Central East Regional).

 

Describe your training regime leading up to the Regional this past year?

I train seven days a week, with two of those days being lower volume.  After my low back injury between the 2014 Regionals and The CrossFit Games last year, I sought out Shane and Laura Sweatt of CrossFit Conjugate to strengthen and rehabilitate my back.  I started using the Conjugate Method and not only am I back into competition shape but I have set PRs on the majority of my lifts in a short amount of time.  We have four training days; two dynamic effort (upper and lower) and two max effort days (upper and lower) per week.  The program rotates exercises so training is fun and constantly different.  We use accessory movements to address any lagging muscle groups or specific movements.  I've been able to visit their facility often and having a hands on coach has been very valuable. I've also recently started working with Chris Hinshaw as an endurance coach and Greg Simmons for Weightlifting.  

 

What has changed in your training, nutrition, AND lifestyle from last year to this year in prep for the 2015 season?  

Almost the entire off season, I was rehabilitating my back.  We had to go back to the basics and work our way back up.  I dragged a sled pretty much everyday to keep my leg strength up because I was unable to lift anything. My tan was great, but I missed Weightlifting and met-cons so much.  I focused on recovery first and foremost and began to "listen to my body" as best as I can.  Coming back from an injury makes you appreciate being able to compete on a different level.

 

What do you eat to feed the machine?

I would say I eat "clean."  No processed food and I cook pretty much everything.  For instance, most days, breakfastis oatmeal, blueberries, orange juice, and eggs.  I supplement protein, fish oil, BCAAs and a piece of dark chocolate everyday (For the magnesium, of course).

 

How do you prep both mentally and physically now for Regionals?   

Try to relax! Tapering is also tough mentally for me.  I feel like I should be doing more.  My friends and family keep me in a light hearted mood, always keeping it fun.

 

What event are you looking most forward to?

The 1RM Snatch.  There is a lot at stake riding on two lifts.  I'm also looking forward to it because the crowd really gets into it and the energy is crazy.

 

Any pre-game rituals or must-haves that get you prepped/in the zone? 

Before a competition, I get "Warrior Braids" in my hair.  Look good, feel good!

 

Outside of competing, what are your current goals/life goals at the moment?

We are always busy growing our affiliate, 812 CrossFit.  I'm planning on competing at USA Senior Nationals for Weightlifting in the fall.

Related Articles: 
Who's Who In The Meridian Regional 
Matt Chan Reflects On The 2015 South Regional