Our New Amazing Adventure!

Wow- I can't believe my last blog post was in MAY! I am slacking! Well, there is a reason for that. Stephen and I have embarked on a new adventure with a group of amazing friends. We are going to be opening a gym! Coastline Strength & Conditioning! We will have strength & conditioning classes, CrossFit (as soon as our affiliation process is complete), kids classes, sport specific camps, seminars and more.

Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I wanted to be a business owner, let alone be one. The thing that we are most excited about with the opening of the new gym is the role we all wish to play in the community. I love the community I live in- and I want to leave a lasting impression on every single person that sets foot in our gym. The gym is more than just working out- its going to give people a sense of belonging and family.

I never knew how much CrossFit would change my life when I stepped in for my first class on February 25, 2013. Never before had I felt so vulnerable- and yet willing to change.  Less 2 weeks after I started my first CrossFit class, I signed up for my first competition. What I originally thought would be something just to keep me motivated to work out, turned into something I was so passionate about. See my picture below- less than 4 months after starting CrossFit, I took 16th place overall in the competition. What might seem like a pretty low standing, was a huge accomplishment for me. I actually took 2nd overall in the Clean Ladder workout out of 54 other women! It took a lot of courage (and an incredible family support system) to participate in my first competition, overcoming that fear of failing was huge.

Now every day provides me with a new challenge and new experience. I am loving every step to becoming a better, healthier, more confident me.I only hope I can share a part of my new found love with others. Let other people (especially women) see that CrossFit and weight lifting isn't only for elite athletes. Look at me! It is for everyone, all shapes, sizes, athletic abilities, genders, and ages.

A book I am reading right now (The Power of Community by Dr. Allison Wenglin Belger) states it perfectly:

" When significant physical and emotional demands are present, group interactions are intensified. Vulnerability is uncomfortable. Taking risks is uncomfortable. Pushing our bodies to physical extremes is uncomfortable. Being emotionally engaged is sometimes uncomfortable. And yet, these experiences allow us to gain insight and greater appreciation for those who have helped us along the way. The fact that those around us are going through similar physical, mental and emotional challenges, supporting us as we support them, allows us to push ourselves in new ways. The more we engage with others, the more we are open to others, the more likely we are to preserve and success in times of duress. Communities can do wonders for people, and these affinity groups don't need to be formal or structured- they simply need to provide support, ongoing contact and shared experiences."

I am so excited to share my journey with you!