As an adult, my fitness commitment has waxed and waned, but generally I’ve always been active: Hiking, trail running, gym three times a week with 5k on the treadmill and then the 30 minute weight circuit. A few years ago I became ill with something that would turn out to be chronic, and it took me completely out of the gym. I would start hikes and be so overcome with fatigue that I would have to turn back and wonder if I was going to make it down the hill. Fast forward two years and I came to the realization that if this is what I was given to work with, I was going to have to work with it. Then Covid came. And then school – bumped into double-time after having to close for Covid – took over. Every waking minute was working, studying or in clinicals. After I graduated, 20 pounds heavier and many excuses later, I decided to get back to it. I went back to my local commercial gym and did some classes but could not find the motivation to get back on the treadmill (dreadmill) or weight machines. I knew about Crossfit from my oldest daughter, but always thought that it was way above my abilities. Then my other daughter began doing it and convinced me that no matter what your fitness level, there is always a modification. So, I did a free class. Definitely almost died that day. Signed up for the trial month anyway, and have never looked back. At first I was very intimidated by the high numbers on the white board after every class and couldn’t help comparing my very puny numbers. Aging is so hard; I’ve had to realize that I can’t compare what I do with people who are half my age. I’ve always been competitive, very hard on myself and driven to succeed. So this was difficult for me, being so far behind, feeling so weak and unfit. As time went by, I listened to some excellent advice from some excellent coaches and learned to appreciate what I get done, not kick myself for what I can’t do. I’ve learned to set reasonable, achievable goals and to listen to my body as well as to nourish it properly. Some days I kick butt and some days I give myself credit for just showing up. Although I’m happy with the changes in my body after nine months of CrossFit, I think the most important thing I’ve acquired is self-kindness (I mean, not always, but every day is a new day)! I can’t keep up with a 30 year old, but I can look for growth within myself, both mental and physical, and celebrate that. And I can create a level of fitness that allows me to rock and roll with the five of the most important humans in my life – my granddaughters. It’s also been great going on this journey with my husband, who is my best friend and staunchest supporter. I love the community, the motivation, and coaching that comes with belonging to Strong Together. These coaches get to know each athlete so well; they know when to push, when to correct and when to suggest modifications. They are patient and kind, always willing to answer questions. As to the final question, what is my favorite move or lift… I’ll have to declare a tie on that one, because it’s between my best move and my worst. I love deadlifts, probably because it’s my heaviest lift and it makes me feel like a badass. However, I also love the squat snatch. It’s such a technical move – I don’t have it down completely, but every now and then I get it right and it feels so cool!