Alex

I stumbled upon Square One CrossFit purely by chance as my mom teaches a “Learn to Run” class at the Running Room.  Kristine happened to come in and talk about cross-training and CrossFit and my parents went to go check it out. Of course they fell in love with it immediately and my mom insisted I come check it out.

Since I was leaving in around 5 months for the Navy and did no physical exercise whatsoever (is computer gaming an exercise?) I decided to check it out with them.  I was a bit skeptical and nervous at first and I find the scariest thing about CrossFit is stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new.  You definitely get the thought, “What the heck did I get myself into?” as soon as you step into Square One CrossFit.  It didn’t look like your every day corporate gym at all, no machines, no mirrors, no tvs, and best of all, lots of chalk.

My first workout drained me completely, and pushed me beyond my comfort level. I remember thinking “I’m never doing this ever again, this is terrible”. Chris and Kristine are very motivational and you feed off their energy.  Even though I was sore for the next 3-4 days I came in when I was okay again…and again…and again; until I was doing the CrossFit “norm” of 3 workout days on and 1 rest day, 3 on, 1 off, etc.  In 3 months I’ve lost 27 lbs, went from a 36 to a 32 inch waistline and have never had more energy in my life!

CrossFitters are strict believers in the Paleo diet which at first I was iffy about because I loved my junk food.  After the workouts though I didn’t want to waste it, so I started eating healthy.  I still get my junk food fixes (one meal a week) and I still get the feeling that I’m eating healthy.  Paleo really synergizes well with CrossFit, it completes the puzzle of healthy living.

I’m glad that I ended up at Square One CrossFit as it has completely changed my outlook on personal health and the way I eat.  It’s also given me more confidence and a more positive attitude.  I know I can crush the Navy physical aspect no problem now thanks to my CrossFit family.  CrossFitters are a special breed of people and I’m excited to push my body to it’s limits in the time to come!

- Alex G, September 21st 2010