Friendly Motivation

I SAW A POST FROM DANIELLE AND SAW SHE WAS RED-FACED, SWEATY BUT SMILING! SHE LOOKED HAPPY. IT BOGGLED ME BECAUSE HOW CAN YOU BE HAPPY AND NOT MISERABLE WHILE WORKING OUT?

Meet Sue and Dani. Sue is one of our newest members and Dani is a member. Her finding Machine Shed story is probably one that many of you share. You drive by our gym numerous times to one day get the courage to step through the day, you're bored with your gym and are craving something more, or you become motivated by seeing a friend's post; sweaty, smiling, and making progress.

Sue's the latter. After meeting with Sue and having her in a few of my classes, I had to write about her. She's enthusiastic, mentally strong, and not afraid to fail. Qualities that many aren't able to harness when they first begin something. Not Sue. First-class was running, rowing, push-ups, and air squats. Frankly, it was a grueling workout. As a coach, I tried to modify the work, so she wouldn't pass out or become discouraged. Well...she started getting heart palpitations (which is normal for her) halfway through, shed a few tears in frustration, but wouldn't stop. At that moment, I was in awe. I was so proud of her and knew that she'd fit right in.

What motivated you to come in?

I have always had a hard time losing weight and keeping it off. I have had success with diets before but have always gone back to eating like crap. I have even tried going to gyms but always felt lost and would end up quitting. So I gained weight and the more I gained the more I hurt. I developed multiple medical problems and a bunch of anxiety and depression. I knew it all needed to stop. I kept seeing the CrossFit vehicle and driving past the shed to get back home from work. I always talked myself out of stopping and talking to someone. Then I was on the couch, surfing Facebook one day. I saw a post from Danielle and saw she was red-faced, sweaty but smiling! She looked happy. It boggled me because how can you be happy and not miserable while working out? I decided that day after seeing her picture, talking with her about all the wonderful people at Crossfit, and the great routines they have that I had to at least stop in and check it out.

What have you enjoyed so far?

The routine and how it's something different every time. Not feeling lost when I come through the door. How my questions are always answered and if I have a problem doing something, there is a way to modify it. I've enjoyed the people and how I am always greeted with a smile and pushed to strive for more and if I can't I am applauded for at least giving it my best. I've enjoyed feeling better and having more energy. Crossfit is definitely something that I can do at the shed but enjoy doing at home as well!

With how much Sue has shined since joining, we cannot forget the member who motivated her to come to the gym. Dani. Dani has been a member for almost a year and has made amazing progress- trust me, I'd know because I've seen it.

What motivated you to come in?

I was really tired of feeling negative about myself and making excuses for not bettering my health. I've been in what I call “health loops” where I would eat right and exercise maybe for a month or two, and then derail and not get back on track again for months. I had been looking into CrossFit and found there was a gym in town. I came to Machine Shed in August of 2019. I decided on my 35th birthday that I would stop all the negative behaviors I had developed in previous years and really incorporate my time into a wellness plan. I'm really proud of my decision. 

What have you enjoyed so far?

This gym not only enables you to work on your health and physical strength, but also your mental and spiritual health. The community here is what keeps me coming back and is what keeps me accountable. I don't think I would have stuck with this if it weren't for the professional help and friends I've made here. Coming to the Shed has helped me lose over 50 pounds. I'm finding the more skills I learn the more my goals change and evolve. It's not about that one goal anymore. It feels good to feel strong and to belong to a group of people that inspire and push each other to be the best version of themselves. I love M-Shed, it's my happy place.

How did you and Sue meet?

Susy and I met through her sister Angie with whom I've been friends for years. She and her siblings are like family.  I'm typically really shy about posting things about myself on social media.  I don't feel that way anymore because I'm glad I inspired Susy to start taking charge of her health and wellness.  That's what makes boasting about progress matter when you can help and inspire others.   I'm so happy to cheer her on with her journey. 

These two are just one of the stories that have happened here at the Machine Shed. This post goes to show that even when you may not feel like anyone is watching you, there is probably someone. A someone who sees your progress and is motivated because of you; maybe due to similar circumstances, maybe because you're friends, or maybe you just inspire them. Either way, there's always someone watching so keep going.

~Coach Karina, BS-Kinesiology, CF L1 Trainer, USAW Sports Performance Coach