ERIN

I joined CrossFit in 2009/2010 in my mid 20's and had always been active with running, swimming and jump roping but had never touched weights aside from one semester in a college weight lifting class (which by the way was the only C I ever received for not being able to lift enough weight according to my BMI).

I've certainly toned up since starting, but it didn't happen fast. I like small bites (figuratively) and am fairly risk averse so even though I was consistent as all get out, it took some time for me to get comfortable stacking the weights on, finding the right diet, and then owning it.

Owning it I think shifted everything for me. Being proud of what I've been doing, loving it, and a reduction in stress in the last couple of years. I weighed the same for the first 10+ years at CrossFit Central, then in the last couple of years I've dropped about 10 lbs and lost about 5-7% body fat. I can only contribute that to stress reduction because nothing else changed.

Now in my mid 40s I feel strong, capable, entertained, and have met great people. When the community was smaller, the staff and clients used to do a lot of self improvement like activities that I certainly attribute a lot of my growth to over the past few years.

I'd also like to add the beauty of modification at CrossFit Central! Instead of holding myself to a status of perfection, I MODIFY! I make it work for me with where I’m at that day. That is something of value I've for sure learned at Central. You have to give yourself some grace and thanks for showing up and making the effort! You'll be far happier than focusing on something that is perhaps out of reach at that particular moment. Then you can step back and come back for it another day! This applies anywhere!