1.What was life like before you became a member?
As cliché as it sounds, kind of boring in a sense. I love lifting but became very stagnant with my routine, where heading to the gym after work (I am not a 5:30 AM girly, sorry not sorry) started being more of a chore than something to look forward to. I also did not have a lot of friends that enjoyed working out/lifting (at least who lived locally), so apart from idle chit chat here and there with other gym regulars, it wasn’t super stimulating – or maybe it just bothered me because I love to yap LOL.
2. At the time you enrolled, were you already exercising? What was your previous background in fitness?
I grew up playing tennis which I absolutely love, though I haven’t played in about a year (trying to get back, though – if you play, let me know!). Fun fact- I also had a (short lived) time as a competitive figure skater when I was younger. Lifting by far is my favorite form of exercise. I’ve lifted for years, primarily starting in grad school (where I also found I love barre classes) – I became more active/strategic with a lifting schedule though in the 2023 timeframe.
3. What originally prompted you to seek us out?
I used to work out primarily at the YMCA – honestly I just got really bored doing things myself and trying to figure out new routines/lift combinations to do. That’s what I love about CrossFit – there’s no thinking involved, I just show up, get told what to do, and do it (though maybe with some complaining – but it gets done!). My mom knew I wasn’t super happy with my current schedule, and she had actually been suggesting trying CF for years which I’d stubbornly deferred thinking I wouldn’t like it. Not to say mom is always right…but she kind of is!
4. What was your goal when you originally signed up?
Kind of going back to #3, I wanted to take the guess work out of what to do for a workout. I trust the coaches and their expertise, so whatever the WOD is (whether I like it or not) I know it’s doing me a favor in furthering my abilities. I used to love working out, so ideally I was hoping this new community would remind me why I started in the first place. (😊)
5. What have you liked best about working with us?
Definitely the sense of community – I know we’re all here to workout and having a social hour isn’t the primary goal, but it still happens! Some WODs suck more than others, so is it weird to say if we’re going to suffer at least we’re suffering together?
6. What are you most proud of achieving since you started?
My exercise/lifting schedule is so much nicer now. Mission accomplished – I genuinely look forward to showing up and giving it my all (no matter how much the WOD might actually want to make me cry and/or vomit). Still can’t do a pull-up (lol) BUT my 1 RMs for squats and deadlifts are both 200+ lbs now.
7. With everything that you have accomplished, has your view of yourself changed?
There’s been exercises and movements I’ve avoided doing on my own in the past just thinking “they’re too hard” or “I won’t be able to do them well, so why even try”. Well, with the WODs I don’t have a choice. I’ve done the hard stuff, and it really shows me how much more I can accomplish than I thought.
8. What would you say to anyone else who might be dealing with any similar struggles you did?
Do the hard days – it’s going to suck, but you’ll be so thankful for it in the long run.
9. Do you have any special moments/memories?
When I first started (July 21, 2025 – just hit my 1 year anniversary!), I just remember how welcoming and nice everyone was. It’s a little daunting joining a group activity where everyone already knows each other, so to be welcomed with open arms was very heart-warming. I’d also just like to say, my very first WOD was Nancy, which is a TERRIBLE WOD to start with as a first impression as to what CrossFit is – I think Larisa was the coach and she straight up pretty much said “Welcome – I swear not every day is going to suck like this!”
10. What is your favorite movement/lift?
Back squats and deadlifts!!!
