05 Feb Testimonial Q&A – Annabel
1. Tell us a bit about yourself, and your background. What were you doing before joining CrossFit 121
I left my pursuit of fitness until really late in life. Throughout most of my adult life I hated exercise and much preferred eating cake at the cafe with friends and sitting on the couch watching TV (cake is life!) When I turned 40 I decided enough was enough and I wanted to get fit. I joined a gym and hired a personal trainer who whipped my butt into shape. By the time I was 42 I had lost 10kg and was in the best shape of my life! I did a couple of Tough Mudders and a mini triathlon before my knees decided that was enough running! My personal trainer started doing CrossFit-style workouts in my PT sessions and I loved the format. So I decided to join a CrossFit gym and was hooked.
2. So far, what are your results? how are you feeling? what has changed? since joining?
My weightlifting form has always been a bit dodgy. It’s amazing how much weight you can lift badly! When I first started at 121 I could hardly overhead squat the bar without falling over or feeling terrible pain in my knees. And don’t even ask me about my deadlifts! Chris has worked really hard on improving my form on my lifts, and I’d like to think it has improved a lot since I started. I’m a work in progress!
3. How did you hear about CrossFit 121?
I was looking for a CrossFit box that offered kids’ classes because my son Jackson was interested, and at the time 121 was the only one offering it in the area.
4. What do you like about CrossFit 121?
The community. Hands down. Everyone is very friendly and supportive and it’s always a happy place to be. I’ve made some amazing friendships at 121.
I also like the variety of the workouts. It’s great to do something different every day. And I love lifting weights and getting all chalky and sweaty! I also love that everyone does the same workout; there’s no “elite” level programming, everyone trains together.
5. What would you say to someone that is looking at CrossFit and not sure if they should come and try CrossFit 121?
Give it a go! As long as you’re prepared to push yourself, sweat and feel a little sore afterwards, I guarantee you’ll love it!
6. Did you have any concerns / thoughts before starting training with us? and if so, do you have any advice for others about to start?
I was worried that it would be too hard and the weights would be too heavy. The girls I saw training at 121 before I started were all so strong! I also worried about my injuries (I have dodgy knees) and if I would be able to do the workouts. But I needn’t have worried, all the workouts are scalable, and Chris and Maria are absolute experts at modifying any exercise to suit your needs. So there’s really no excuse not to give it a go! As long as you like working hard and pushing yourself, you will love the training. You have to be prepared for having hands like a brick layer though, full of callouses! We are very proud of our callouses!
7. If you were to recommend CrossFit 121 to a friend what would you say?
Don’t be afraid of lifting weights! Come and learn how to lift properly and have fun at the same time. 121 has very experienced CrossFit coaches that will teach you how to work out safely and get you fit and strong at the same time. And don’t worry if you have kids or dogs because they are all welcome too!
9.What surprised you the most about joining CrossFit 121?
The OCD of the head coach! It makes for a very well organised and clean gym!
10. how has life changed after joining CrossFit 121?
I can now deadlift my chunky 35kg Labrador into a dog bath and carry all the groceries from the car in one go. Winning!
Seriously, it has helped me cope with life’s challenges. CrossFit workouts can be tough and it teaches you to be mentally strong and not give up. I’ve had some tough challenges over the last few years and 121 has been integral in helping me cope with it all without losing my mind. For that I am forever grateful.
