CRISTINA GRAVES
Erin Parker is responsible for my Loudhouse connection. She was working out in Amanda and Jason’s CrossFit class when Miranda and I heard about it. It was about February because Miranda called and asked Amanda what it was and would we get our “bikini bodies” by spring break? Of course Amanda said “yes” so we signed up for what was supposed to be about 6 weeks of this “CrossFit stuff.” At the time we had done a few boot camps but wanted a change. This was prior to Loudhouse’s permanent location. Our first WOD was in a room in the fashion district. I don’t remember the exact details of the WOD, but it involved a ladder of sit-ups and something else. I thought she was nuts because it was a TON! Now we do that same number of GHD sit-ups.
The results that I have achieved from LHCF are not at all what I expected. I was stuck in the mindset of losing weight. I have always been active but really never thought of myself as strong nor was I worried about it. I remember when Amanda described the gym that they were opening I actually thought maybe it wouldn’t be for me. I enjoyed the classes I had done to that point so I gave it a try. I was surprised to find that some of my favorite days were when we maxed out. Kim, Miranda, Carolina and I would cheer each other on and even though they all out-lifted me we had so much fun encouraging each other. That’s where is began. Suddenly I became comfortable with who I am. I stopped trying to be thin. I have an athletic build and I am proud of that now. I have times that I know I need to clean up my eating and come more frequently but I don’t stray too far.
Anybody that knows me knows that CrossFit keeps me balanced. It is my stress relief and the only thing I do just for me. I have found myself viewing life challenges as a WOD. “Just one more round, you got this!” More recently my children have become involved which has been wonderful. I hope that I can provide a positive example for them of a healthy person. I like that they can look around our gym and see all ages, shapes and abilities. They see the pain, hard work and frustration combined with encouragement and support. These are great life lessons.
My goals and progress are so slow. I will never forget my first double under. I stopped and jumped up and down yelling because I was so excited. After 4 years I still struggle with those. I have small goals that I am still working on. Stringing more than 3-4 pull-ups. Consistently doing more than 10 double unders at a time. Getting my first ring dip unassisted. Beating Del in any way possible!
The coaches have all be an important part of my progress. Amanda has spent years telling me to just pick the bar up and her energy typically makes me do it. Kristie and Jason have been great to pick up on little details of things during my movements so that I can be corrected. Watching Megan’s progress has been inspiring and she is very motivating.
Some of my closest friends are members of LHCF. It’s hard and sometimes I want to quit. My husband in a huge inspiration to me and there’s nothing like having someone to complain about a WOD with. I love watching everyone’s progress and accomplishments. I must admit the thing I am most proud of is the fact that after 4 years I am still coming and don’t have any desire to quit.