I need to start by saying I’m truly shocked. There are so many other deserving….
A little over 6 months ago I read a sign on a building, very near my home, announcing that “CrossFit Wallingford” would be opening there soon. “Fitness without Limits”, the sign read. I thought, “no excuse now.” I was overweight (again) and out-of-shape (again) and there was a “gym” opening less than two minutes away. Online I found that there would be an Open House so I planned on attending and just signing up on-the-spot. A gym is a gym, right? Been there, done that so many times I’d lost count.
I went to the Open House and was more than a little bit surprised when I entered an empty building. No elliptical machines, no treadmills…no tv’s or mirrors?!?! Just an empty box with a clock on the wall on one end and some big metal contraption on the other end. And two enthusiastic coaches. I met Ron and then Rob, both briefly, and I liked them, so I decided to sign up even though I still really had no clue…. I had never heard of “CrossFit” and knew nothing about its concept for fitness.
It was not until the first on-ramp class that it all started to make sense. On February 5, 2013, myself and 17 other CrossFit newbies began our CrossFit fitness journey together, and we haven’t looked back since. I still find comfort in seeing those same smiling faces at class, and motivation in seeing how hard they train and how far we have all come in just 6 months time. All of the members, to a person, regardless of their fitness levels or CrossFit experience, are so welcoming, encouraging and supportive that it makes showing up for the wod so much easier and, dare I say, even fun. The camaraderie at CFW is like nothing I’ve experienced before, and it all starts with Ron and Rob. I would be remiss however if I didn’t also specifically mention my “first CrossFit friend”, as she likes to refer to herself. Since the first on-ramp class when we met she’s been there when I need motivation, inspiration, a reality check, or a good laugh, and, like so many others, is equally deserving of this recognition.
Joining CFW is one of the best decisions I have ever made for myself, both mentally and physically. At 47 years old (yikes!) I feel better than I have in many, many years. With the help and support of coaches Ron and Rob, as well as the other CFW members, I’ve started eating “clean”, lost over 30 lbs, gone down a few sizes, and gotten so much stronger physically. Mentally I’ve come to realize that there is no such thing as “I can’t.” Instead, it’s “I’m not able to yet, but I will.” Back to Lean in 2013 at CrossFit Wallingford. Thank you Ron and Rob.
Congratulations to Lynn Fiore, who is one of the hardest workers at CFW. Lynn is also one of the biggest cheerleaders always routing people on and always positive. We are so lucky to have Lynn at CFW and she deserves CrossFitter of the month.
