A friend wanted to try CrossFit, so she talked me into taking the Elements class with her. I knew Coach Chris on a personal level several years before, but I was very reluctant because I was very out of shape, overweight, old, and felt like I would not be able to do the workouts. I was totally wrong because everything can be scaled. My friend stopped coming after a few months due to scheduling conflicts, but in January, I will have my 3 year CrossFit anniversary.

Karen in June 2012.
Karen rowing in June 2012.

I have gained a totally new perspective on everyday life. I use the strength and positive attitude I have developed in CrossFit workouts to deal with daily life – everything from unloading a car full of mulch to walking up a very steep rocky path on a mission trip in Bogota, Colombia. When I recently was faced with emergency surgery, I know the upper body strength I had gained in CrossFit was crucial in being able to get out of the hospital bed on my own. The icing on the cake is that I am part of an amazing community and have met some people that I consider to be treasured friends.

Karen (middle) monster walks with bands.
Karen (middle) monster walks with bands.

Favorite Workout- I don’t know that I have a specific favorite WOD. I really like AMRAP workouts better than timed ones because I like it when we all finish at the same time. I love the variety of the WODs and because they are all so different, it is hard to pick a favorite. I tried hard to decide on a favorite, but mostly my favorite is the one I just completed – especially if it is a very hard one that I was a little afraid of.

Karen's attempt at the 63# clean.
Karen’s attempt at the 63# clean.

Favorite movement- believe it or not, I like rowing, even though I am not the best at it! And I like front squats.

Favorite moment- I know you didn’t ask, but of course it had to be getting that 63 lb. power clean in SVEN (our annual CFW team competition).

Least Favorite Movement- I only get one? Lunges are probably my least favorite.

SUCCESS!!
SUCCESS!!

My hope as I continue with CFW is that I keep getting stronger and that some day, I really will do a double under!