Written by Debbie Daffron of Rockwall, Texas
May 2010
I drove by Crossfit for about a year knowing one day I wanted to be there. I had a membership at a local gym but I kind of felt lost as to what to do and would end up spending so much time there and not feeling like I really did anything. I finally made the decision check out Crossfit in November 2009 when I realized I had to take care of me. I had just been diagnosed with hypothyroidism and suffer from migraine headaches.
I was very encouraged by all the people who are there at every level of fitness as well as various ages. I wanted to be able to do what they did, (pull-ups, ring dips, even push-ups); it looked like everyday movements put into an exercise format. Knowing a trainer would be there for me making sure I did the exercises correctly was extremely beneficial. I not only felt like I had a personal trainer, but a group of others around me to keep me motivated. My body impressed me. I realize now that I can be stronger than I think I can be. I had knee problems and needed a brace to ski, but this last season, no brace was needed! Doing squats the correct way solved that issue.
I made the decision to be consistent, to be there, for me, at least 3 days a week. In January a nutrition class was taught and I was challenged to eat healthier. I learned about the benefits of eating only real food, fresh fruits, vegetables, meats and fats. I have been eating this way since then and have never felt better. My migraines are less frequent, and my weight is slowly but surely leaving me!
I am so encouraged by my own body strength, and now that I am fifty years young, this needs to be my lifestyle from now on if I want to maintain an optimum level of health. I am not saying it’s not hard. I don’t have the metabolism of a 30 year old any longer so what I put into my mouth really has an effect on my body. I just know I want to live a disease free healthy life without medications. I really look forward to the classes; they’re short but hard, and very effective. I never left the other gym feeling like I do after a CrossFit class. I’m hooked and grateful.
