Jen

I have always struggled with exercise, working out, looking for fad diets, or quick fixes. In 2014, I found myself in a lousy spot. I was about 260 pounds, and I was an emotional wreck. My 9-year relationship was coming to an end and It was causing me so much anxiety. I saw some progress pics posted on Facebook and I asked what they had done to get such amazing results. They told me they had done a Wellness Challenge in town with some other locals, and I thought “if they can do it, so can I!”

I started a wellness challenge led by Jennifer Turcotte and friends and by making small changes, I got my foot in the door. I started counting calories and jogging on my elliptical for 30 minutes a day, along with increasing my water intake. Along with starting to notice weight coming off and my clothes fitting better, exercise was putting me in a better spot emotionally. I started running in the mornings with a group of awesome people at 5 am. I soon realized that exercise not only made me feel good but it completely relieved my anxiety.

We all started running 5K’s. What a rush! I hated running, but I did it!

Eventually, Jen T and other friends were starting CrossFit. I didn’t want to, but I decided to give it a try. What’s the worst that could happen? I honestly figured I would try on-ramp and maybe make it a few months, but never thought I would actually go willingly. I started on-ramp in January of 2015. Here I am, two years later, and strong as hell!

One of my favorite accomplishments is being able to carry a car battery without struggling. I remember a customer brought a battery in one day, and it was all I could do to just lift it! Today, I am fixing to be in the 300-pound deadlift club, and before Crossfit, I couldn’t even lift a damn battery?!

For me, the biggest part of CrossFit is the community. They hold me accountable. I commit to showing up 5 days a week. Sure, things get in the way, but for the most part, I show up. I have ladies every day who push me and we all plan when we are going and what time. We support each other, we lift each other up, and we hold each other accountable to show up. We also enjoy a little friendly competition between friends!

The biggest piece of advice I can offer is to give yourself a break! If you don’t feel like going, show up but scale the workout appropriately so you don’t quit. If you don’t feel like going, show up and sweat on the bike for an hour.

Nobody ever regrets going, but we regret not going! Bring the body, and the mind will soon follow!