Athlete Update – Allison Fullmer

When I first joined CrossFit IoTa my intentions were to lose weight, get back in shape and “feel good” again. CrossFit has given me that and so much more. Yes, I have lost 18 lbs and 16.5 total inches but more than that I have gained strength, confidence and stamina. I’ve been able to see myself do things I never thought I could do. CrossFit has made me a better person across the board.

When I was in High School and College I loved to run, hike and be outdoors. I always had the goal to run a marathon. After having three kids I seemed to lose that desire. I would start a goal of getting back in shape but couldn’t seem to have the follow through. I lost my motivation and drive. I became frustrated in myself. I would start something and fail. I didn’t like that about myself. That wasn’t who I was but it was who I was becoming.

Then a friend told me about CrossFit. I didn’t really understand what it was all about but I thought if I could do this with a friend maybe I could finally stick with it. When I started it was a love hate relationship. I won’t lie. Day after day I was sore everywhere, even places I didn’t know I had muscle. This was tough but with the feeling of sore muscles I knew it had to be doing something. I was starting to see results. I was gaining energy becoming stronger and decided at that point I was going to monitor inches lost and not just pounds. I knew I would be doing myself a huge disservice if I didn’t seriously think I was going to be gaining muscle mass exercising at this level of intensity.

It didn’t take long before I became addicted to CrossFit. I didn’t want to miss a day. It was seeing a WOD and saying to myself, “ There is no.. way I can do that.” Then the amazing feeling that came after I did.

Before CrossFit I had trouble sleeping at night. My mind would run and I would toss and turn and couldn’t sleep. Now I sleep better and even though I attend the 5:30am WOD I have energy during the day. ( I have to admit though sometimes after a tough WOD I just want to go home and take a nap.)

CrossFit has made me a stronger person. Whenever I would start trying to get back in shape before CrossFit I would get injured. I didn’t know why but I do now. My core was week. With every movement we do at the box we are always strengthening our core. My injuries have not come back since.

CrossFit has helped me eat healthier. I am more cautious about what I put in my mouth. I want to fuel my body with the right foods. I have seen what it has done for my family. I want to cook better and my kids want to eat healthier too. My 9 year old makes up his own personal WODS and lets me know how much stronger he is getting. My daughter joined in running a 5K with me. I love seeing how what I do is effecting my family for the better.

Each time I do a WOD and see myself accomplishing more it makes me feel more confident in myself. It makes my day go better. If I can do Floor wipers, kipping pull ups and double unders etc. I can make it though what is thrown at me throughout the day.

I look forward in coming to the box, to challenge myself in ways I never have before. It’s not just the WODS, it’s the camaraderie, the support system we have at the box. Knowing we have trainers like Paul, Brett & Tami that believe in us. It’s all of that that keeps me coming back for more. It’s seeing the progression that we make from one bench mark to the next. I know that the WODS are intense and at times down right brutal but I love challenging myself and the knowledge that everyday I’m stronger, healthier and more accomplished then the day before. CrossFit is not only about making us stronger physically but mentally as well.

It’s because of CrossFit I have a better attitude about life. I am stronger, I’m back to enjoying running again. I am healthier and I’m a happier person all around. CrossFit has given me something that I feel I have some ownership of. This is my thing and I love it! Thanks Paul, Brett & Tami and CrossFit family for making it so great. – Allison Fullmer