On November 1, 2011 I took my first foundations class. On November 3rd, I participated in my first official Crossfit WOD.
It’s now a year later, and according to my workout journal, I’ve logged 240 WODs since then. I thought it would be fun to reflect on the impact Crossfit has made on my life over the past year.
The Numbers
Let’s start with the numbers. In the past 12 months, I’ve lost 40 lbs, and dropped from a size 14/16 to a size 4/6.
I’ve lost fat, put on muscle and feel great about how I look. I have more energy, more confidence, and generally enjoy life more than I did a year ago.
The Food
My Crossfit box introduced me to the Paleo style of eating (our coach calls its Performance Nutrition) which has been instrumental in changing my body shape.
I could not have achieved the body changes I have without altering my eating habits. But I know would not have attempted this radical a change to my eating habits without the support of my coach and fellow athletes (via gym-coordinated food challenges).
Although I still have “cheat days”, this is the primary way I feed myself — most all of the recipes I share nowadays are paleo or “primal” (paleo with a touch of dairy).
Accomplishments
Here are some of the things I can do now that I could not do a year ago:
Pull-ups
Push-ups (on my toes)
Double Unders
Deadlift 250+lbs
Handstand Push-ups
Climb a Rope
Jump High
Turkish Get-Ups
Run a 5K (sub 25 minutes)
Image Credit: St. Luke’s Wildcat 5K
Protect/Defend Myself
Other Benefits
Additionally, I’ve gotten to meet and make friends with great folks I would not otherwise know, if not for our shared enthusiasm for Crossfit.
I’ve even met some Crossfit “Celebrities”, such as Jeremy Kinnick, Tony Blauer, and even CF Games Champ Rich Froning!
These are just a few of the ways Crossfit has changed my life for the better.
I am eternally grateful to my hubby for introducing me to this sport/lifestyle. If you look at your life and are unhappy with what you see (like I was), what are you waiting for? My recommendation would be to give Crossfit a try.
All photos not otherwise specified are courtesy of David Wallach / Crossfit Rubicon.
![The Meanest Momma](https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-S0-UAwPX6Rk/TwXG1TDRHII/AAAAAAABDeo/WFIw0U8-VRI/IMG_2075.JPG")
Congrats! Your hard work has paid off!
Thanks Kristin!
Congratulations! I have enjoyed reading about your journey and your menus are really helpful. We usually make one or two of your recipes a week. My husband joined Crossfit partially based on your posts and he loves it!
Thanks Tori. It makes me happy to hear your hubby is doing Crossfit too. Glad to have another convert in the fold 🙂
Kendra,
You look amazing – and incredibly happy. I’m thrilled for you and feel inspired by journey! Congrats!
Hi, I came across your blog while searching for a recipe. I’m a year behind you, started my foundations course a week ago, started eating paleo on Nov. 1st and so far have 2 WODs under my belt. I’m loving reading about your journey and I hope in a year I can be where you are! Thanks for the inspiration!!!
Always inspiring Kendra! You are amazing!
Wow! What a transformation! It’s very true that your eating habits have so much to do with the changes your body can make. I just had my first baby and am now getting back
Into crossfit and working out. I missed it! I’m in northern Virginia too- out in Ashburn. I just read your competition post- loved it. You might not think your a real competitor, but you got out there and competed. That makes you a competitor! Congrats:)
Hi Kendra-
What an inspiration you are in many ways! I started cross fit slightly over a month ago at Crossfit Rubicon. Coach Mike and Jen B. told me about your site. So glad!