Leila Showery

The newly installed pickleball courts at the gym were a major motivation for me to join CrossFit Central. I was already passionate about playing pickleball, and I initially joined Lifetime to work out and enjoy the sport. However, due to the difficulty in reserving a court there, I decided to explore Waterloo. While playing and observing others working out, I felt inspired to pursue personal training with Davis.

Before joining CrossFit Central, I felt stuck in my body despite working out frequently. I was experiencing lethargy, which was frustrating, especially since my work life was thriving. It seemed like whenever things were going well in one area, my physical strength was lacking. My goal was to lift with intention. The personal training program I embarked on is tailored for pickleball athletes. Given the dynamic movements on the court, it's crucial to prevent injuries. The real progress happens with the effort we put in off the court.

Since joining the community, while I have lost weight, the most significant outcome has been the community of friends I've made at Waterloo. This supportive network has become a core part of my experience. My pickleball friends have also been inspired to focus on fitness beyond the court. Losing 24 pounds since starting my journey in April is just an added benefit. The friendships I've formed in this community are truly lasting.

Beyond the weight loss and new friendships, the routine of working out with my favorite people feels like therapy. We are like a family, always ready to support each other when someone is feeling down. The camaraderie and connections I've experienced are unlike anything I've encountered before.

I truly appreciate the Waterloo pickleball and gym format, which has been incredibly supportive for many community members who enjoy pickleball, loud music, and weight training. I'm very saddened to hear about the discontinuation of the pickleball court memberships. It was a unique business model that successfully encouraged more pickleball players to focus on fitness and overall well-being.

Since starting my journey, I’ve lost 24 pounds, and my waist has gone from 29 inches to around 24 inches. I’ll need to redo the body fat and muscle gain measurements soon to track my progress further.