Meet Whitney, a mom who decided it was time for a change. She took on her fitness journey at CrossFit Ampersand, not just to redefine herself physically but to reclaim her mental and emotional well-being. We are very happy to share with you her story - Read more below!
Why did you join CrossFit Ampersand?
I joined CrossFit Ampersand because honestly I didn’t like the person in the mirror. About a month before my son’s first birthday, I came to the hard conclusion that I wasn’t happy mentally, physically, or emotionally. I had been battling postpartum depression for the better part of that year and I knew I wasn’t going to be the mother I wanted to be if I didn’t make a significant life change. So I decided to try something I had always been too intimidated to try.
What's been your biggest accomplishment so far?
I have had a lot of personal accomplishments in my fitness journey so far. I think the biggest two that come to mind would be doing full rope climbs and wall walks in a workout. One of the first few classes I saw, people were doing wall walks and rope climbs and I remember being so impressed. I just kept thinking, “These people are just incredible. Maybe I’ll be able to do one of those in a couple years.” Fast forward a few months and I was able to do full rope climbs and mostly full wall walks, albeit not pretty ones, in the workouts. I honestly cannot remember feeling that pumped after a workout as I was after those.
What are you working on now (or what do you want to accomplish next)?
Currently I am working on strict pull ups and double unders. I was able to get 5 single-single-doubles in a row last week!
What's your favorite CrossFit Ampersand memory?
So far my favorite CrossFit Ampersand would be the first strength cycle test week for Front Squats. I paired up with Winter and remember hoping to hit 90lbs on the front squat and I believe Winter was shooting for 80lbs. We both encouraged each other and I ended up at 110lb and Winter hit triple digits. There was just so much positive energy in that class it was just awesome. I remember driving home with a smile on my face the whole way.
What motivates you to continue training at CrossFit Ampersand?
My two children and wonderful husband are what motivate me to continue training at CrossFit Ampersand. Not only has it been easier to keep up physically with my two babies and my husband with home projects, but I feel like I’m a better mother and wife. If I’m having a hard day, I know I can get an awesome workout with some amazing people and come back home feeling re-energized. Since starting at CrossFit Ampersand, I truly feel like I can fully show up for my family.