My first CrossFit experience was on-ramp at CFGB in January 2017. I was just recovering from a major surgery. I had wanted to try CrossFit for years, but was too shy and intimidated as I had never been an athlete and CrossFit seemed too “athletic” for me. While recovering from surgery, I decided I was just going to go for it and as soon as I was cleared, I joined. There’s been no going back since. I was hooked immediately!
My toughest workout to date had to be Murph this past year. It was my first time attempting it and the thought of 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups and 300 air squats between two 1-mile runs seemed impossible. In my mind, I planned on trying to make it at least halfway. When I hit the halfway point, I realized I had more in me and kept going. I kept pushing and the next thing I knew, I was running that last mile, which was killer! But I did it! I couldn’t believe I knocked out 100 pull-ups and 200 push-ups without having to modify, well, minus the vest. That will be a challenge for the future!
CrossFit began as simply a way for me to get in shape after my surgery. My original goal was to lose weight – the typical, get “skinny.” However, it’s become so much more than that. Instead, I now focus on becoming stronger, healthier, and having a positive mindset and body-image. It is helpful to have so many inspiring, strong, body positive women at the gym as examples.
The gym has become much more than just a place to get a quick workout in and go home. It’s become my community, filled with friendships, support and motivation. There’s been many times in which the only thing that got me through my day was looking forward to my CrossFit workout. CrossFit has quickly become a huge part of my lifestyle and it’s something I genuinely look forward to. It truly is my “happy hour” after a long day at work.
Q: Did anything ever go wrong in a workout for you? What was that like?
J: There are always things that go wrong in my workouts! I’m pretty much guaranteed to fall on my butt during overhead squats or squat snatches. I inevitably pick a weight that feels too heavy and it seems I’ll never make it through the workout. I trip all over my double-unders or maybe feel like I’m just not getting the gist of certain lifts. Sometimes it’s easy to get discouraged if I don’t feel I am getting stronger or I look around and see all the strong women I’m surrounded by and wish I was stronger. However, I always try to remember to keep things in perspective. I began less than 2 years ago, I was never an athlete, I was coming off of major surgery, I couldn’t even overhead squat a 15 lb barbell! I just remember how far I’ve come and that I am my only comparison. If i forget, the amazing people in the community remind me of how much I’ve already accomplished. Once in a while it is easy to get discouraged, but I’ve found this community is amazingly supportive and makes you feel awesome, especially those days you’re struggling through a WOD. One of the best parts of CrossFit is that there is always something to continually work towards and improve, so you never get bored. And it always feels good when I’ve accomplished that workout…no matter how many times I landed on my butt that day!
Q:If you could have anything to eat, what would be your go-to favorite meal or dessert? Details, please!
J: Definitely Chicago style deep dish pizza…and chocolate…all the chocolate…and wine (but not Friday night before Barbell Club!)
—
If you are new to the gym, have a suggestion for a social activity, want to pass along a suggestion, concern or idea – please feel free to reach out to one of our CFGB coaches, a CFGB Liaison, or one of the many members in our CFGB community. We are here to help!
Our team of volunteer CFGB Community Liaisons – include Brandon P, Tony, and Jessica. Our Mission/Vision: To build the most engaging positive-minded CrossFit community – an inclusive community that inspires, motivates, and benefits all.
If you would be interested in helping in this role – please contact us at info@crossfitglenburnie.com
Photo: Sarah, Camila, Yvette, and Jessica (left) hanging out after class.
Leave a Reply