CROSSFIT. That word means so much more to me than “just a good workout.” Never did I ever imagine when I joined my first Crossfit gym, that I would gain so much more than “just a good workout.” My first Crossfit WOD, I am not going to lie, I was terrified! The whole way driving to the gym, my nerves were through the roof. I kept thinking to myself , “What if I can’t do this?” “What if this is just way too hard and I look stupid?” I have always been an avid gym goer, but still didn’t believe in myself that I could do all of those “cool” Crossfit movements. I instantly realized after my first CF class was over, that I was going to like this, really like this and I couldn’t wait to go back….even if it meant dying just a little during the WOD each time. For the months, which turned into years, I continue to fall in love with Crossfit and how it has made a huge difference in my life not only physically but mentally. I am hard on myself, VERY hard on myself and struggle with that daily. Crossfit however, has given me an outlet to relieve stress and the anxiety I so often put on myself. It has given me goals to work towards to continue becoming a better person both physically and mentally! Believe me, I can do more than I ever dreamed I could do, and I continue to surprise myself when I doubt myself and say, “I can’t do that.” The best thing I gained from Crossfit is not my own physical changes, it is the friendships and the Crossfit family I now have. These people are my people and they are wonderful! We cheer each other on during the WODs and outside the gym. We support each, are proud of each other when we hit a big goal, and are always looking out for one other! What I gained from Crossfit, is more than I could have imagined. I love this sport and love that no matter what age, your ability level, your personal goals are, CROSSFIT is for YOU!

After Hurricane Michael destroyed my gym and six weeks of no exercise, I decided to give Crossfit a try. I had been an aerobic instructor for 35 years and considered myself to be in pretty good shape. After my first WOD and feeling like I had met the devil of exercise, I realized I wasn’t in the great shape I thought I was. However, I immediately became drawn to this thing called Crossfit. I quickly learned that I could not keep up w ladies that are 20-30 years younger than me, but with the help of an exceptional coach that taught me proper form while working with weights and that scaling is ok, I hung in there. Crossfit is more than a type of exercise, it’s a family. People encouraging you to do “your best” not worry about what everyone else is doing. I check my ego at the door! I have become stronger than I ever thought I would and I’ve made some incredible friends that are my extended family. No matter your age, give it a try. You’ll be glad you did!

I started CrossFit in January 2018 shortly after moving to Panama City. I’ve always been a very competitive person and after watching a documentary on the Crossfit Games, I thought I would try it out for myself and see what it’s all about. And being new to town, I also needed a way to meet people and get involved in my new city. Walking in to our gym that first day was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Crossfit not only provides an amazing workout but one of the most welcoming, supportive communities I’ve ever been apart of. I look forward to working out and seeing my PCCF family every day. I would recommend Crossfit (specifically PCCF ) to anybody looking to make a healthy, positive change in their life.