Well, as much as I’d like to say that I am a completely transformed physical specimen, and ready to compete in next year’s CrossFit Games, realistically, I am still at the “before” stage of my journey to “after.”  I am brand new to BTB CrossFit, I have been an official member at the Vinings gym for just over five weeks now.   However, even just five weeks in, I already feel better both physically and emotionally.

The biggest transformation so far has been in my motivation.  I was always a traditional, nothing-special, same old same old, big-chain gym member.  I was lucky if I went two times a week, and never felt that I was getting anything accomplished.   I was a robot on a treadmill, going through the motions and hoping eventually something would work.

Now mind you, I was never in horrendous shape, nor was I ever what you would consider overweight.  Growing up I was always an athlete and I’m lucky to be tall, so I hid it well when I softened up and lost all my muscle.  But like everyone else, I wanted to be fit, have a leaner body, stronger legs, arms and abs, and just plain look fabulous in a bikini. 

Earlier this year, my interest-level in getting fit and lean was taken up a notch when my now fiancé popped the question, and a wedding date was set.   I was now faced with a huge goal - a strapless dress, the thought of every friend and family member staring at me, and knowing I’d be documenting it all with pictures I would be showing my grandkids.  It was just the kick in the pants I needed but was extremely overwhelming and daunting at the same time.   I mean, where to even start? 

Then thankfully, I was introduced to BTB and CrossFit Dynamics.  I had never heard of CrossFit, I was completely in the dark on what it was all about.  But I thought what the heck, it’s eight sessions, it might teach me something new, it’ll change up my routine a bit, so why not see what it’s all about.   After Day 1, I knew immediately that it would be like no workout program I’ve ever done and after Day 8, I was hooked.  I cancelled my gym membership the very next day. 

Now as a regular member, I sweat more in the warm-ups alone than I ever did in my sessions at the gym.  In five short weeks I have gone from a gym-hater, lazy and bored with exercise, to someone who is challenged daily both physically and mentally.   This stuff is tough, don’t get me wrong.  But what I didn’t think was even possible before – I now realize, is.  I witness people doing their first ever pull-ups daily to the cheers of fellow CrossFitters, and as I like to think of it, Support Group.  One day soon, my name will be on the board too, but all in good time. 

Right now I am just thrilled that the thought of working out after a long day at work is no longer the last thing on earth I’d rather be doing.  I actually look forward to it and I enjoy that every day is different from the last.  One of the first things I do in the morning is check the blog to see what the night’s WOD has in store for me, and I frequently go check out YouTube to watch things I haven’t done before or refresh myself on things I have.  I leave each session saying, “that was one of the toughest things I’ve ever asked my body to do.  And I did it – so bring on the next.”

Like I said, I’m still brand new.  This is just the beginning.   But it’s only onwards and upwards, first pull ups and first hand stand pushups, from here.  I can honestly say that BTB has changed my perspective on the exercise mentality and I like where my head’s at.