Running to Lifting: How CrossFit Became My Fitness Sanctuary

Cadiz, Spain 2012 Post Crossfit Workout

In 2012, I ventured to Spain, where I met a group of friends at the same school who were into CrossFit. Unfortunately, they lived about a 45-minute walk from me so joining their gym wasn’t an option. I kept running daily and joined a local gym close to my house and pretended to lift weights but really just did more cardio.

One day, during a beach trip, my friend group wanted to work out, so we did a CrossFit-style workout. I remember women walking by on the beach cheering me on as I worked out with four other guys.

From there, my interest in Crossfit really took off. My dad was always in my ear telling me I should strength train while I run, but I didn’t know where to start, I didn’t know what to do at the gym.

Upon returning back from Spain, I had a few friends whose siblings attended CrossFit West Chester and highly recommended it. As someone who had always been intimidated by CrossFit, being a runner and not accustomed to lifting weights, I was apprehensive. However, in 2015, I took the plunge, with my friend Michelle agreeing to join me, making the experience less daunting.

I was assigned an "on-ramp" coach - shout out to Marco - with whom we had private one-on-one sessions to learn different movements before joining the actual CrossFit class. After a few months of sessions with Marco, we graduated to join the classes, and I couldn't be happier.

Previously, I used to go to the gym and focus more on cardio or dabble with the machines. CrossFit, however, is a group workout with the workout already planned. I attribute much of my success to my gym’s wonderful programming. Staying consistent and tracking my results has allowed me to know where I can push myself weight-wise. Building strength takes time. When I first started, I couldn't do a push-up, pull-up, and was using the trainer bar. Within one year, my back squat went from 123 lbs to 200 lbs, highlighting the power of consistency.

I love the feeling of being strong and healthy. Whether you want to compete, stay fit, or just have fun, CrossFit offers an amazing community of people who hold each other accountable, bring smiles, and promote health and fitness. Shout out to CrossFit West Chester's owners, as they have played a significant role in my CrossFit journey.

I also want to address the preconceived notion about CrossFit injuries. In my nine years of CrossFit, I have not had a single injury. Every injury I've experienced has been from running. The coaches are there to ensure safety, appropriate weights, and proper form.

For those considering joining CrossFit, whether or not you're in the West Chester area, here are some tips for finding the right gym:

1. Check out their website and view their daily workouts.

2. Follow their social media accounts to get a sense of the gym culture.

3. Drop in for a visit. You don't have to commit to just one gym. Explore different CrossFit locations to see where you feel most comfortable. Remember, the people are just as important as the workouts.