I officially started working out at Catalyst on April 1st of this year. I started out first doing the Catalyst Light classes and also went through the OnRamp program with Charity Elliott. It was a great way to get started! I had just decided that it was about time that I smarten up and get into better shape since I had slowly been putting on the pounds in the last few years and was feeling rather sluggish….I guess you could say, a couch potato…. It seemed like my metabolism was slowing down and going for walks was just not cutting it anymore. I needed to do something more. My son was already coming here during the winter months in the Ignite Program with Tyler Belanger who has been doing excellent work with him. So, by bringing my son here every week, I kinda got a chance to get a sneak peak at the gym. I really liked what I saw….
My first impression was a very positive one. All the trainers are super nice people and always positive, helpful and encouraging; no matter what level you’re at. I also really like the fact that there’s no fancy frills here at Catalyst. No fancy machines and no crazy fashion shows. lol It’s all about working hard, getting fit, feeling better, making new friends, and having fun along the way.
I think just the fact that I started coming here was a really big first step for me. The workouts are tough, but modified whenever necessary depending on what level you’re at or if you have any mobility issues. They say slow and steady wins the race. Well, I think that’s the path I’m headed for and that’s definitely a good one I plan on continuing….. I’ve noticed my clothes fit better, I feel better mentally, and also proud of myself for making this lifechanging decision. I’ll be 45 this month and I hadn’t worked out in a gym setting in over 25 years, so it was a bit intimidating at first, but I sure am glad to say that I’m on a path to a better and healthier lifestyle. I feel great! I plan on stickin’ around for my family for a long, long time. 🙂
Since about the beginning of June, I’ve moved on to the regular CrossFit classes and am doing pretty well. The workouts are very tough! Phew!! Lots of hard work and sweat, but I am definitely noticing a difference and getting a little bit stronger every day..! I plan on just continuing to work hard at every workout, not compare myself to others, and try to improve my personal records as much as I can. This is probably the hardest I’ve ever exercised in my life, but definitely worth the results!
My favorite Catalyst memory would probably be my very first Crossfit Light Class. I just had no idea what I was in for! Like I said before, I hadn’t worked out in a Gym in over 25 years and I thought that I was in “pretty good” shape for someone my age and who liked to walk. Boy! Was I in for a big surprise! lol
I was really struggling to get through that first workout and was almost in tears because I didn’t realize how hard it would be on me, both physically and emotionally. I couldn’t believe how I was feeling…! I think that I was also the last person to finish my “rounds” that day and just felt defeated and wanted to lay down and quit….. But I didn’t…..no sir…. ! Thanks to our trainer Charity, and the other class members, encouraging,…and cheering me on till the end,….I kept right on pushing through it. I ended up finishing that first workout and felt pretty darn good about myself when it was all over…..no record time or reps achieved, but I finished! I actually finished! For me, it was definitely a personal best in my eyes…and the start of a healthier way of life. Yay me!
That’s when I was hooked on CrossFit! 🙂