What made you decide to try CrossFit?
Exercise and fitness have always been a major part of my life. I had a couple of close friends attend ELC and they encouraged me to give it a try. I’ll be honest, I had assumptions about it before I began but it took about two minutes for those to get broken down. I got hooked pretty fast.
What is your favorite part about Empowered Living Company?
The people and the constant challenge. I have been completely blown away by the camaraderie present at ELC. It’s truly given me the sense of belonging that I’ve been seeking during adulthood. I’ve been to a few other boxes and while it’s fun to try a new spot, I always leave more thankful for ELC. We’re small but mighty and the community has been a true blessing.
What’s your favorite movement, lift or workout?
I like rowing, deadlifts, and snatches. But ask me in a month or two after I learn some of these gymnastic techniques. They’ll be up there too after I figure them out!
What’s one milestone you’re most proud of so far?
Keeping my head on straight and positive while recovering from that Achilles rupture. Had I still been hitting up the gym on my own, I don’t think my recovery would have gone as well. I’m proud of myself for being okay with modifications and continuing to push myself, despite some limitations.
What are some unexpected benefits you’ve experienced since starting?
A more developed growth mindset and some shoulder mobility, though I still have a ways to go with that! It still comes back to the people though. I never expected to receive such a supportive and loving community for both myself and family. The workouts a stellar but I love shooting the breeze with everyone.
What is your next goal you plan to crush?
I’m really excited that Coach D-money Swedburg was willing to enter a competition with me so that right there is big and I am super stoked. I want to improve my mobility and work on those kipping movements like T2B and hand-stand push-ups. I am excited to see where I’m at a few months from now. Heck, maybe I’ll even like overhead squats one day!
What advice would you give someone walking through the Empowered Living Company door for the first time?
Be patient and be coachable. Coaches aren’t trying to embarrass you when they give pointers on improving technique. They are, however, trying to keep you safe and help you improve. And nobody likes not getting a movement right away but we all have strengths and then areas where we need to improve (in and out of the gym). Keep working hard, give yourself grace, and know you’ll get there if you keep showing up. Oh…one more… and that they can sure try, but there’s no way to prepare oneself for the sense of family heading their way.
Photo Credit: Hailey Anne Photography