In early 2009, I was not healthy, strong or in shape and for the most part I was "skinny fat".  I was working out in a globo-style gym and  I wanted to be in better shape, but had never really played sports, was not athletic and was not particularly committed.  Also at that time, an event occurred that completely altered the course of my life and the lives of my closest loved ones.  I decided then that I was going to do whatever I needed to do to provide as much strength and support to my family as I possibly could.  Each day was a painful struggle to try to pick up the pieces and I would regularly ask myself how I was going to do it the next day, or if I was even doing the right things.  At the urging of my husband's cousin (Mike Poppa - currently a Real Fitness Coach), I decided to check out CrossFit at the nearby Real Fitness.  I wasn't expecting much but it was something different to try; maybe I'd get in better shape, or maybe it would be a good distraction from all of the questions I was constantly asking myself.

It turned out to be exactly what I needed in so many ways.  I definitely got in shape and eventually achieved a goal of doing the "perscribed" workouts on a daily basis.  But the most unexpected and beneficial aspect for me personally was that it would provide the mental training that I was looking for to stop asking questions and start making statements,  like "I can do this and I will do this".  This mindset and the mental workout component of every "WOD" has permeated to all areas of my life.  I remember one workout in particular that TJ (Coach at Real Fitness) still teases me about to this day.  I didn't want to do it because I didn't think I could do it and I tried to get out of it.  TJ wasn't having it, and with the positive reinforcement from him and the rest of the staff, I DID do it, and it was another step forward for me that I'll never forget.

I could go on and on about all of th reasons why I love CrossFit and Real Fitness.  There's again the mental training, but also the rewarding achievements and improvements in my physical fitness level, and the welcoming community of members that push one another in a positive manner.  There's also the staff that provides a support system to living a healthier life physically and mentally through nutrition tips, yoga classes, member appreciation gatherings, etc....but after you try the free seven days, I doubt you'll need any more of an explanation.  Hope to see you there ;).