Amelia Penner

CrossFit Level 1

I was first introduced to CrossFit in January of 2009 by Chastity Slone.  The first time I walked in the doors of Practice I wanted to walk right back out!  Everywhere I looked I saw people heaving huge weights with bodies that looked like they were ripped right from a fitness magazine.  This was NOT a place for me. Now I realize that CrossFit is a community of people with different backgrounds, different levels of fitness and different abilities.  But we all strive to be the best version of ourselves.

In January 2009 I was 40 years old with no athletic background and almost 100 pounds overweight.  I could not do a single push up (even on my knees) or support my body weight just hanging off the pull up bar.  I remember the day Chastity asked me to run 90 SECOND intervals on the treadmill and I could not do it. I could not run for 90 seconds, how was that possible??  I went home and cried.  But with the constant encouragement of the amazing community here, the trainers and my family I kept coming.  It has changed my life and the lives of my family members.

I still struggle with various movements and sometimes it feels like it’s one step forward and two steps back.  But I continue.  This fall I ran a half marathon.  I run with my kids and my husband, I play outside and in the pool.  I can do the things I want to do. My 70 year old parents now CrossFit 3 times a week and have seen amazing improvements in mobility and strength. I love that CrossFit is functional and prepares me for both the expected and unexpected in daily life.

My goal as a trainer is to help people like myself to find that inner resolve to cast out fear and make a commitment to health.  We owe it to ourselves and those that love us to be healthy and strong.  I may never look like some of the people at PCF and may never lift as much weight as others, but it does not matter.  I need to be the best I can be and I would love to help you do the same.