I have been a runner for almost a decade. It changed my life, and it is in my bones, and I will always identify as a runner. I was on an amazing team with amazing people and running changed my high school experience for me, and then I went to college and running got me through a lot of that, too. I still run with some of my girlfriends from cross-country, but we mostly do it to catch up and have a chance to talk in the midst of our busy lives. So running has turned from what was a team sport to me into a mostly individual thing--something I do with my iPod or an early morning mist. I love what it has become, but there was something missing from my recent exercise experience.
It was motivation, and I've found it.
The things I love about CrossFit are the same things that I first loved about running. This is also a team, and, like my old one, we're tied together by incredibly specific things. My cross-country team's Pasta Parties have been replaced by CrossFit's endorsement of Paleo. My wonderful friends might not be in the gym every morning with me, but there are plenty of amazing people there to cheer me on when I feel like quitting.
Most importantly, I have never felt stronger; never more aware of the potential that lies within my body. And the compliments I've received in just three weeks about the looks of my arms and shoulders? Well, those help, too.
Every day, CrossFit reminds me of where I came from, and encourages me to get to where I'm going.
I need some more info on CrossFit!
ReplyDeleteSuper impressive! I barely made it through Couch to 5K, I can't imagine doing CrossFit. I could do with a dose of motivation!
ReplyDeleteyou can do chin ups? amazing! i really struggle with those...any tips?
ReplyDeleteI recently started Crossfit as well! Even though I'm probably not at the level you are I always leave there feeling stronger. I'm blown away at what my body can and can not do.
ReplyDelete@Angie--I started with a big resistance band attached to the bar. I'd put my foot in it and do like 5 sets of 10 pull-ups each day. Then I would use a shorter bar and jump up to a pull-up. You just have to make it easier on yourself until you're strong enough to do them on your own!
ReplyDeleteI love that last line. It also helped me get where I was going, which lately has been the couch, but still a constant reminder that I have it in me to be stronger and leaner. This post motivated me for real!!! Thanks. Love you.
ReplyDeleteThis is the epitome of a motivational post. This makes me want to do crossfit, even if I knew nothing about it before.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the inspiration. I need to look into this. I've recently gotten into running, and wish I hadn't waited so long to start. I dont want another great fitness opportunity to pass me by again.
Girl you look GOOD. I need to get on the Paleo and Crossfit train. Just looking at you is motivation!
ReplyDeleteEvani
So awesome. I can tell you're looking fit!
ReplyDeleteWay to go and keep it up.
Catherine
FEST
Isn't running amazing?
ReplyDeleteYou look great! I'm glad you enjoy not only the excersised but the camaraderie as well :)
dammit you're inspiring!! even though crossfit wasn't for me long term, it definitely made me realize i'm stronger than i realized and with enough hard work and dedication you can achieve some big things...like a pull up!
ReplyDeleteCupcakesOMG!
I can totally relate to your feelings about CrossFit - I feel the same. It's amazing how being a part of this community makes you feel like a new person: confident, happy, motivated. I seriously believe it's changed my life for the better and I'm glad to see i'm not the only one! :)
ReplyDeleteCrossfit sounds right up my street - would love to fin out more! xx
ReplyDeleteWow, I'm impressed. Definitely made me consider this in a different light. Also, I like your answer in the comment about how to actually do a chinup - definitely inspiring, and nice to know that not everybody starts being able to do everything.
ReplyDelete...I need to work out again. i love the way it makes me feel, I am much more productive and happy.
ReplyDeleteget it, girl! someday I'll be able to do a pull-up...honestly I am not really working towards it. I just throw myself at fiance's door frame bar every once in a while and laugh at myself.
ReplyDeleteLOOK AT YOU! So impressed! I am also SO jealous - have been looking for crossfit down here and cannot find it!
ReplyDeleteWhere do you take your classes? I think my gym might offer a cross fit class but I'm not sure if its the real deal or not! I'm definitely interested now!!
ReplyDeleteOne of our best friends is a crossfit competitor and trainer and he loves it (not to mention, he looks amazing). I'm dying to try it but am a little shy about looking silly in front of so many fit people. I LOVE watching the crossfit games on TV. Those guys/girls are amazing!
ReplyDelete@Kelsey Elizabeth--I go to an actual CrossFit gym in Roanoke! I don't know what gyms offer the classes, though!
ReplyDeletedayummm gurrrrl! if CrossFit can make me have a stomach like that, i'm totally in.
ReplyDeleteprops to you for posting pictures of you in a sports bra on the world wide web. a very cute sports bra, i might add.