Meghan Depps

What were you doing before Brodie Park Crossfit?

I was just working out low weight – high reps before I came here. 10 lbs was the heaviest dumbbell I’d use. Now I use 20lb dumbbells in each hand. I would go to my apt. gym.

What was that made you decide to sign up?

Well,  I came to two of the free Sat. community wrkouts, and I joined after the second one. The first one was really challenging, a lot of different moves, and I liked it because it was a lot of endurance.

Where are you now? what gains have you made?

When I got here I hated Olympic Lifting.  It scared me.  The first time we did front squat I was freaked out and I didn’t want to do it.  I hated the strength at the beginning of all the WODs because it was my weakness.  I started off I think my max front squat was like 65lbs and it was terrible and now its at 105lbs.  Like everything just cleaning the 45 lb bar used to be terrible and now I am front squatting my own bodyweight at 105lbs. When I realized the Oly lifts/Strength sets were my biggest weakness, thats what I wanted to work on the most and now I’m obsessed w/ it, I love it.

Now you are a leader in the class and pushing other people to put weight on their bars.  What are your family /friends saying? How has it impacted your life as a whole?

My mom here in Austin notices a difference and my family back home are very supportive when I talk to them. My grandpa is 70 years old and he still goes to the gym. So he likes to hear about it.  If I go home he watches me wrkout.  Before, I was really skinny and now I look strong. I notice a huge difference in the way I feel.

What are your stats along the lines of front squatting your own body weight?

I recently had a PR on the Snatch at 75lbs where as before I could barely do the 45lb bar before. I can clean and jerk 95lbs now instead of just the barbell. My backsquat is at 125. My deadlift is at 165lbs, where as before 115 lbs was my max. I can do 4 strict pullups unbroken.

What are your favorite moves?

Clean and Jerk.  Anything w/ shoulders. Ring dips.  Hand Stand Push Ups. I can do pistols unbroken.

What are your weaknesses?

Everything is a weakness that I get better at, but anything w/ squatting is a real weakness.

How have you surprised yourself?

Everyday I come in, Crossfit shows me a weakness. Like Olympic Lifting used to be a huge weakness and now I love it. Like that day we had 10 min to find our max of everything, starting w/ Overhead Squat. I loved it.

Whats your favorite WOD?
I love anything w/ the snatch or bodyweight movements together.  I remember the first WOD I did here was “Cindy” (20 min As Many Rounds As Possible of 5 pullups/10pushups/15squats).  I modified w/ the green band and pushups on my knees. When we did it most recently, I got the same # of Rds but RX(precribed) w/o the green band and standard pushups on my toes.

What are your 3 mnth goals?

To snatch my body weight in the next year and clean and jerk over my body weight, just getting more and more efficient. Its just the squatting part thats holding me back. Also, get my muscle up.

What would be your advice to someone that is on the fence about starting Crossfit?

Think about whats holding you back. If its because you’re nervous, its something you should definitely do, because its just going to make you stronger.  I think its the unknown that holds people back.  Once you go in and you challenge yourself you’re going to have so much more respect for yourself and just be more confident in life.

What is the payoff you get when you come in and push yourself through a wrkout?
As well as pushing your class mates to do the same?

Knowing that I gave everything that I have. If I come in and hold myself back I am wasting my time and everybody else’s. What would be the point if I’m not going to give it everything.

Brooke Ehlinger

Where were you before you started at Brodie Park Crossfit?

I played Volleyball in college and then I kind of just got lazy and gained weight.  I would work out here and there, on and off; on and off again.  I would gain weight, lose weight, gain weight, lose weight.  It was constant.  I guess probably like 6 months ago, before we came here, my husband and I tried to go to a traditional gym.  I’m just not good at pushing myself. Then we found out that Chad’s cousin and his girlfriend were doing Crossfit in Louisiana.  They talked about it a lot and thought how much we would love it.  I started researching and found Brodie Park. We started classes mid March 2012 and fell in love with it!

What was the main thing that kept you coming back?

Mainly, that the workouts are always different.  I love that there is no routine and that I never know whats coming next.  I also love that I have awesome coaches that push me and don’t let me slack off.  They make me believe that I can push myself further and harder. After a CrossFit workout, I feel strong and happy! Even if you walk into the gym in a bad mood, you leave in a great mood.  You just sweat it out!!!  I have also made some awesome friendships at BPC. I love the community.  I love our people here. Everybody’s interested in each other’s lives and what they’ve got going on.  I’ve made some really cool new friends.

What have been your results/stats since you’ve been here?

I’ve definitely seen results in the way my clothes fit. When I started, I was wearing a size 11 and now I wear a size 6.  My weight was 161 and it’s now 149 lbs. It’s a huge difference and feels awesome!  When I look in the mirror, I see definition that I’ve never seen before. I am stronger and in better shape than I was when I was playing college volleyball. And since Chad and I do CrossFit together we can see the progress in each other and in our bodies. We see the progress that we make in class together.  I feel like it has definitely done some good things for us and our relationship.  I wish we had started sooner.

How have friends and family noticed your transformation over time? Whats been the reaction?

My mom makes comments like, “Wow you look really great – you’re so skinny.”  My brother has said the same and he always has been in great shape. He’ll say, “Wow, you look great sis!”  Facebook friends comment positively and are proud of me!

How have you surprised yourself in the gym?

I think that one day we did max American Kettlebell swings and I got 110 reps. That surprised me. The fact I can do 4 strict pullups unbroken is surprising to me. I often surprise myself. I feel like I am getting better every time I’m at BPC. I have exercise induced asthma and it only bothers me when I run. I am amazed at how much stronger my lungs have gotten and how much better I can run now than before.  I would always avoid running because it hurt my lungs and I would wheeze. Now my lungs are so much stronger and I can handle it more.

What are your strengths? favorite moves?

I really like Clean and Jerks.  I also really love the kipping pullup and climbing the rope. I love it because growing up we used to have a rope in our back yard.  My dad would always get me and my brother to climb the rope. It was so fun! So I got really excited when there was rope climbing at BPC!

What are your weaknesses?

I would say the muscle up.  The kettlebell snatch technique. Handstand walks.

What would be your advice to someone that is on the fence about Crossfit?

Just try it, even if its just for a month.  You are going to love it. You will love the friendships that you make.  Its so worth it. I still get scared before every workout but I love conquering that fear.

How do you tap into that mental toughness towards the end of a wrkout where your body wants to quit but you push yourself through?

I have been competitive my whole life. My brother and I grew up playing sports. I feel like when there is a goal, when you have people cheering you on, encouraging you, my competitive spirit comes out.  For example with the 110 kettlebell swings. I had a number in my head that I had to beat and that’s all I could see. I was determined.

Kari Wright and Livi Henley

Where were you before you started training at BPC?

Livi: I wasn’t working out at all. I was a college athlete but then I stopped, had a big break and wasn’t working out at all. Kari joined 1rst then a month later I started. I wasn’t doing anything for about a year. I got up to 263 lbs. I knew I needed to do something and to start eating right again. We stopped eating meat 2 years ago and got into a rut w/ eating too many carbs like bread, pasta, rice…

Kari: I was a year out of knee surgery. Before my knee surgery I was running. I ran a marathon and was in really good shape. Then after that, I didn’t do anything for a year. I laid around and moped. Like Livi, I was also at my heaviest when I started BPC, 220lbs. I let the frustration of my knee keep me from getting out there and doing stuff. I felt like I was in a workout depression.

What has been the impact as a whole? What differences have you seen? Results?

Livi: At my most recent weigh-in, I was 209 lbs (lost 54 lbs!). I feel like I still have a long way to go but I definitely feel better about myself. Now clothes are falling off of me. I am having to go and buy new clothes. My self esteem and confidence is better. I’m eating a lot better. I drink a ton of water and we stopped drinking soda and tea. Our habits are so much healthier. Doing it together is so much more powerful than if we tried alone. I like seeing the results. I am even able to do hand stands! When you are working out you are driven to eat better – if you eat bad it cancels out the work you’ve already put in for the day. You want to maximize the work you’re putting in. We do have our cheat days though.

Kari: I’m at 170lbs (lost 50 lbs!) now. What I’ve noticed is that since I work out in the morning, I am happier during the day. I have more energy to teach and I am able to do more. If I skip a morning workout, I can tell, and whats funny is that my kids can tell. They’re like, “You didn’t work out this morning did you? You’re grumpy.” I do focus more on what I’m eating. With my fast paced schedule, I tended to grab a quick bite to eat at a fast food place, but not anymore. If I don’t have something like a salad or something that is in line w/ my training and goals, I don’t put it in my body. I don’t want to workout for nothing. I used to down large quantities of orange juice before realizing how much sugar is in it. Diabetes runs in my family. Before BPC, I was pre-diabetic. I am no longer pre-diabetic. My doctor also notices a huge difference and comments as well.

How are your family/friends noticing?

Livi : Last time we went home we had family photos. Family was use to seeing us in our baggy t-shirts and shorts. However, this last time we dressed up in normal clothes for the photos. That’s when they really noticed the difference. Especially in our faces. They were all overly excited and just glad that we are getting healthy. They want us to be healthy. They are very happy for us and happy that we are doing it together because doing it together is easier.

Kari: I talk to my mom everyday and she always asks, “Did you work out? What did you do? What is your body weight down to? Are you eating? Are you drinking water? Are you being healthy”? Our whole family supports us in this journey together. That feels great.

Livi: My brother is doing CrossFit in Houston and would always tell us about it. He loves it. All his friends are doing it too. He’s very competitive now. I went to one of my brother’s competitions and it was just such a positive atmosphere. It makes it enjoyable because we are all working our asses off together.

Kari: Team camaraderie is what makes it great. I think that’s what I missed so much. I was a college athlete and then all of the sudden I didn’t have that anymore. Now Crossfit is my sport, I have that TEAM back again.

How have you all surprised yourself at BPC?

Livi: I’m surprised I can do it. Some WODs I say, “Oh there’s no way I’m going to finish that.” Then I’ll either get really close to finishing or finish it all together. I remember the first time I completed a benchmark workout. And then I did it for a 2nd time. I think it was “Fran” (21 Thrusters / 21 pullups – 15 thrusters/ 15 pullups – 9 Thrusters / 9 pullups For time.).

Kari: I did a box jump instead of a step up. I just knew how far I’d come. The 1st pullup I did, I had to use the green band. Now I am able to do them w/o any bands. I can get things done now. Now I tell myself that if I can do 10 unbroken this time, next time I’m going to get 15 unbroken.

whats your favorite move?

Livi: Anything w/ AbMatt Situps w/ a Kettlebell or Medball. I really like pullups now too! I can’t wait to not be using a band at all. I also love deadlifts.

Kari: I like push press. I love Kettlebell swings.

Favorite wrkouts:

Livi: Anything that is a chipper, where there are a lot of movements for time, and doing lots of different things.

Kari: Hands down, my favorite WOD is Fight Gone Bad: 1 minute at each station X 3rds of…
Wall-ball, 20 pound ball, 10 ft target (Reps) Sumo deadlift high-pull, 75 pounds (Reps) Box Jump, 20″ box (Reps) Push-press, 75 pounds (Reps) Row (Calories)

What would be your advice to someone that is still on the fence about starting Crossfit?

Livi: My biggest fear was coming in here and not being able to do anything. However, my brother said that it didn’t matter what shape you were in and that everything could be scaled down. He also said that people won’t judge you, just do it. They’re glad you’re coming in and want to improve yourself. You need to be open minded. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

Kari: Even if you are scared to come in. The minute I walked in I was welcomed. BPC is a very welcoming atmosphere. No matter if I was having a good day/bad day, it was like a family unit/atmosphere. You will not be turned away if you can’t do something.

Livi: I think when people see the competitions, like the CrossFit Games, on TV they might be intimidated. That is the extreme side of the sport.

What weaknesses have you developed into strengths?

Livi: The fact that I am pushing myself even more because I am seeing the results daily. I know I am going to keep losing weight and be where I want to be. I have a vision for myself. During the workout I look to compete w/ my classmates more, especially Kari. If I’m keeping up w/ her or chasing someone else, I push myself more.

Kari: Staying positive w/ myself. I am also a coach/teacher and I am a role model for my athletes/students. That’s one of the things that keeps me coming back. When I look back I was a 220lb woman trying to get kids to see the importance of working out. They probably would look at me and think, “She doesn’t work out, why should we?” Now, when they are going through a hard workout, I’ll start naming off the things that I did in my workout that morning. That helps them get through. I tell them, “I’m 33 yrs old and I did this, that, and this in the morning. You’re 12 – 13 years old! You can do it!”

Andrew Hernandez

Where were you before BPC?

So, my athletic life runs parallel with my personal life. In high school I played football. I was captain of the team. That competitiveness inside me refuses to let me lose. I was 2nd team all district. I went to college and participated in all the intramural sports; basketball, football, everything. My entire life, I’ve competed. When I was in high school, all I did was lift weights – so much so that it took over my life. I told myself that I would never lift again. In college, I was into endurance training – running, biking, swimming. I was training for triathlons and I got down to 160lbs (skin and bones). Once into my career, I had to focus solely on that path and do well at work so I could get ahead and move up. I didn’t have the team sports to play anymore, I was all on my own. The most active sport I played was golf. I got up to 260lbs. I was borderline diabetic.

Weight has always been a struggle for me and that is one of the things that pushes me in the gym. For both me and my family. At 260lbs, I was miserable. For a while, my career started to take a turn for the worse. Everything was turned around and not what I expected of myself. Still overweight, I moved and changed jobs several times over the next couple of years. I ended up having a last minute upset w/ a job offer gone wrong. I had been assured that I had a position and it fell through days before I was to move. I got into a dark place again, putting on more weight.

I ended up in my hometown of Victoria, TX. I was working at a gym while getting my Master’s in grad school. A friend told me about CrossFit. He didn’t know anything except that it was a high intensity workout w/ a bunch of different moves. We started doing workouts together and I was loving it because I would leave drenched in sweat.

When I moved back to Austin, I started looking for a CrossFit gym. I wanted a place that had a strong community. I wanted to have a coach that was going to be there for me. I wanted to be pushed past where I could push myself. I wanted to become better. After individually meeting the coaches, I got that feeling at BPC. I loved it. I have never regretted one day being here. I spend my days waiting to get here. I wake up in the morning, I go to work, and I can’t wait to get to the gym. This is what my life has become. I love the community, the coaches, and the intensity. I am an overly passionate person in many aspects of my life. CrossFit has not only helped me in my personal life, but has also helped me in my business life. I’m my own worst critic, however, I’ve started to step back and acknowledge that I am doing the best I can. My downfall is my level of patience. I’ve learned to keep moving forward when I don’t get things right the first or second time. I always thought that what I learned in my business life would then be applied at the gym, however, its been the exact opposite.

What are some of the things that your family/friends are saying about your physical transformation overall?
My sister wants the same change for herself. When I told my boss about The Turkey Slaughter Challenge and the work I did, he couldn’t believe it. CrossFit creates a reaction w/ people. My dad told me he loves watching me compete. He’s only seen me compete in high school sports and triathlons. My family has noticed that I’m getting lean. As someone who has struggled with weight their entire life, I am finally happy and content w/ the progress I’ve made. I’m getting stronger and my clothes are much looser.

What are your stats?

I measure my success by how many fists I can get into my pants now. Or how many belt loops I go down. I hate buying new clothes. Now I don’t have any clothes that fit me, they all fall off. I have lost a total of 80lbs.

Whats your favorite move?
Heavy squats. The Snatch

Your Weakness?

Overhead squat is my arch nemesis. It challenges me more than anything. It’s a combination of flexibility, upper body strength, and balance. I love the complexity of it.

Favorite WOD?

I love any workout that doesn’t show how strong you are or how fast you are, but, shows how badly do you want it! There is a quote by Will Smith that I love, ” You put me and someone else on a treadmill, 1 of 2 things is going to happen. You’re going to get off first, or I’m gunna die tryin…I’m not going to quit.”

What would be your advice to someone still on the fence about starting Crossfit?

Don’t be scared. You’ll see a change in your physical attributes. You need to find that underlying confidence inside you. I know in the end, I’m going to get there. You’ve got to scale down accordingly, learn the movements, and put your pride aside. You can’t be scared. Just go for it!

How have you surprised yourself?

The biggest moment of joy Ive experienced in here is getting the snatch. I had all but given up on it. I couldn’t even get it over my head. When I finally got it over my head and stuck with it, Coach Joe said, “Oh my gosh that’s it!” I was like, “I can’t believe I just did that. I have been fighting for this since day one.” That night I left BPC feeling like a million dollars.

Brenda Contreras

What were you doing before you started at BPC?

I’d just had a baby. Before I was pregnant, I would run on a treadmill and use 10lb dumbbells about 3 – 4 X per week, no classes. I didn’t really feel like I knew what I was doing.

How did you hear about BPC?

I would drive by and see people working out outside the gym. Also, the big Brodie Park Crossfit sign caught my attention. When I stepped foot inside BPC – it just didn’t look like a traditional gym. I had never been inside a CrossFit gym before BPC.

What has been your experience? What keeps bringing you back?

Once I started BPC, I kept going back because of the classes. The classes are on a more personal level. A lot of the same attention you would get in a 1:1 training session, you get at BPC but much more. It’s more motivating because of the class setting and working out with other people. Plus, it’s more affordable than 1:1. Everyone at BPC is down to earth. BPC its more like a little family. The community aspect of it.

What results have you seen?

I have never been this strong or lifted weights like I do now. I can do 75lb barbell strict press, instead of 10lb dumbbells. As far as fitness, I love that I am not complaining about my body. I feel like I am more firm now since I’ve had kids. I have dropped from a size 8 to a size 4.

Whats your favorite WOD?
Coach Joe’s “Beach Body” workouts. I can do them at home w/ 20lb dumbbells in each hand.

How have you surprised yourself?

I’m trying to get out of my comfort zone more often. Recently, thanks to the BPC coaches, I am now adding more weight and surprising myself with what I can do. I am starting to look forward to everything, instead of just the things I am good at. Also, I am starting to keep up w/ more of the advanced athletes. Some of the people I never thought I’d catch up to, I am staying w/ them. I’m being more competitive.

How’s it impacted your life as a whole?

I’ve made friends here. The older you get, the harder it is to make friends. At BPC, everyone is talking and getting to know each other. It’s like family. It’s what I do for myself. We hang out because we like each other and we have this lifestyle in common. It’s the social part of it that I love too.

How has your family/friends noticed changes in you?

Everybody’s noticed how quickly I’ve lost weight after having my baby. I’m back in my old “skinny” clothes. My husband is my cheerleader because he sees me daily and is so proud of me. He’s a really busy guy but makes a point to workout. He knows how important CrossFit is to me and likes it as much.

What would be your advice to someone who’s still on the fence about crossfit?

DO NOT BE INTIMIDATED. I am a mom. I had just had my baby. I was turning into “mush.” CrossFit can be intimidating when you see the athletes w/ such intensity. The workouts are never easy. However, it’s finally awesome to stop comparing myself to others and just do what I’m able to do. The coaches push you to do what YOU can do. They get you where you never thought you could be in such a small amount of time. I wish I would’ve done this a long time ago.

Kristi Welch

Where were you before you started at BPC and how did you hear about
BPC?

I have been an avid mountain biker for 10 years or so. For the past 2 years, I was mountain biking on average of 30ish miles a week and just could not seem to break through to the results I wanted. BPC is close to my home, so I always drove by it. Not being in the best shape, it was intimidating to think about taking that step. I decided to start with BPC bootcamp and that was the perfect start for me.

Where are you now?

I am down 25lbs, feel great, dropped 3 sizes, got to go and buy all new clothes because nothing fit anymore, and most importantly, my confidence has boosted! Day to day I feel great!

What are your family/friends saying about your progress/success and
how has it impacted your life as a whole?

I had not seen many of my mountain biking friends in a while. When I finally showed up to ride, many were wondering what I had been up to in order to make such a difference in my physique. BPC has helped me become a stronger rider. I have gotten many compliments from my family. My brother-in-law has told me that I am an inspiration to him and my sister to try harder to eat right and exercise more.

Stats:

Pant Size: 14 to 10 (sometimes 8′s depending on style) I have not worn a size 8 since college
Lbs Lost: 25

Favorite WOD and move?
WOD: 7 Rds for time of…
30 Double Unders
10 Chest 2 Bar Pullups
3 Clean and Jerks
(155/115)

Pull ups, double unders and handstands because it makes me feel like a kid again…It’s awesome!

What’s your advice to someone on the fence about CrossFit?

Well, I have heard from a lot of people that if you do CrossFit your going to to get hurt. My advice to this is, be aware of your body, start where it’s right for you. Stay light until you have fully learned the movements and then you can focus on adding weight. Also, CrossFit tends to intimidate people. I say just go and try it. Try it for yourself instead of going on hearsay. For me, the bootcamp classes was my foot in the door with CrossFit. That was a great route for me, I followed that with CrossFight and now I’m doing the indoor classes!

How have you surprised yourself?

That I can now do pull ups!

What are your strengths?

Strict Press

What are your weaknesses?

Cleans

What are your goals for the next three months?

AFTER the holidays, to get more serious about my diet (Paleo). I have done pretty well on it but this time of year is difficult. It’s time to get motivated again.
I have also started going to indoor classes 2-3 times a week and strength classes 2 times a week. I would love to continue on my path of weight loss and gaining lean muscle mass.

Allyson Wright

Where were you before you started at BPC and how did you hear about BPC?

I lived in Tyler, Texas and was actually working out with a personal trainer at the time. The gym where I was training offered CrossFit classes. Upon seeing those classes, I got really interested. In addition, friends of mine who were already doing CrossFit at different boxes were getting amazing results. I saw a grand opening flyer for BPC and grabbed it. The day I moved to Austin I decided all or nothing. I called BPC and told Sara that I wanted to start, no matter what it would take.

Where are you now?

I am super happy! I never thought I could see such amazing results so quickly. I have so much energy day to day! It’s great!

What are your family/friends saying about your progress/success and how has it impacted your life as a whole?

My family keeps asking me if I am about to run a marathon. My mother has recently told me “calm down your getting too strong for a girl.” They can all notice how much healthier and happier I am. They are all really happy for me!

Stats:

Pant Size: 8-4
Lbs Lost: 10
I have also put on a lot of muscle!

Favorite WOD and move?

Karen & Hang Clusters “hang clean into thruster”

What’s your advice to someone on the fence about CrossFit?
It can be scary at first, but once you take that first step you will become addicted. BPC is such a welcoming and encouraging environment it would be hard not to get addicted!

How have you surprised yourself?

My workout ethic and drive has grown incredibly. I have always wanted defined arms and have tried just about everything. I even worked with a personal trainer in Tyler. Then, within months of joining BPC, I got the definition I have wanted and so much more!

What are your strengths?

Endurance has become a strength! I can now do pull ups, free standing handstands, push ups, & can throw around weights I never thought possible!
What are your weaknesses?
Double Unders and handstand walks!

What are your goals for the next three months?

My goal is to get 50 Double Unders, unbroken! Also, to continue with my definition!

Omar Diaz

Where were you before you started at BPC and how did you hear about BPC?

I hit an exercise plateau. I found it difficult to continue challenging myself. I tried different things but could not seem to break through it. Through a friend of mine, I found out about BPC and was instantly curious. I was convinced to try the free community WOD on a Saturday. I loved it! I was hooked and decided to get my foot in the door with CrossFight classes. After a month of CrossFight, I found myself wanting to try the indoor CrossFit classes!

Where are you now?

Now I’m in a REALLY good place! I have been exceeding my personal expectations. It’s a great feeling to have. I feel I’m constantly getting stronger and continuing to set new limits for myself.

What are your family/friends saying about your progress/success and how has it impacted your life as a whole?

My family is very supportive and happy for me because they can see how happy and healthy I am. Some of my friends tend to say I’m “obsessed.” “Obsessed is a word the lazy use to describe the dedicated”-Zyzz. I am happier, stronger, and definitely the healthiest I have ever been. With all that said, it’s easier to stick with great nutrition because I see my results so quickly.

Stats:

Pant Size: 38 to 29
Lbs Lost: 79
Beyond the Weight loss I have not only lost fat but I have tightened and increased my muscle.

Favorite WOD and move?

“Gracious Annie” and Deadlifts

What’s your advice to someone on the fence about CrossFit?

Don’t be scared to challenge yourself

How have you surprised yourself?

I continue to set new limits and goals every time I surpass one. Pushing to new limits is a great feeling!

What are your strengths?

Commitment to routine and taking on a healthy lifestyle. When I set a goal, I do not stop until I achieve it and then set new goals to reach for.

What are your weaknesses?

Pacing myself, especially throughout WODS when you get to your breaking point.

What are your goals for the next three months?

My goal is to compete at Elite RX Level!!!

Annie Braden

Where were you before you started at BPC?

I was working out on my own at a gym about 5 or 6 times per week. I worked out w/ my friend LaToya Bigalow, she was doing Crossfit at that time, and we would meet and do Crossfit wrkouts that would kick my butt. May 2012 I went to a smoothie shop and saw the BPC flyer. Then I had to go to military training but started Crossfit when I got back at the end of July 2012.

What results have you gotten since you’ve been at Brodie Park?

I’ve gotten a lot stronger a lot faster as compared to just doing regular strength training wrkouts on my own. The Crossfit coaches and classmates push you. You have people with whom you can compete. You may be doing squats next to a girl that’s squatting more weight than you. That alone makes me want to strive for that weight and do whatever it takes to get there!

What changes have you made in your nutrition?

Eating right has been the most important thing for me. I was training in Atlanta for a couple mnths and under a lot of stress. Due to time constraints, we had to eat at a cafeteria that had nothing but bad food. Away for 3 mnths, stressed out, 12 + hr work days, always sitting and on a computer, not a lot of physical activity…I was in bad shape when I got back to Austin. It was a set back both mentally and physically. It felt like a vicious cycle. Starting Crossfit made me want to do better, feel better, and eat cleaner (lean meat, veggies, some fruit, nuts, seeds, and oil). I felt a new accountability to myself. I felt it was important to keep a food log, again, to hold me accountable. I would think, “If I eat this cupcake, I’m going to have to write it in my food log and I didn’t want to see that…LOL.”

How much weight have you lost?

20lbs and 2 – 3 pant sizes.

How have you surprised yourself most?

Probably just getting a lot better at the gymnastics movements; kipping pullups and the squat movements. I can do a couple pullups unbroken. I think just because you do reach that goal, it’s now become my lifestyle, and you continue to work at it.

What differences have your friends and family noticed physically/mentally?

I’m a lot stronger and leaner, and more cut. Mentally, the biggest thing for me is that Crossfit is such a positive thing to do. I work in a negative environment, so its really important for me to have something positive to do outside of work. There’s times where the best part of my day is coming to Crossfit WOD. I know a lot of people feel the same way. I’m around negativity a lot, so I need to have an outlet. Its a sport. You strive to get better, to improve, and you always have something to work towards, and look forward to. Its something I do for myself.

What are you weaknesses?

Hand Stand Pushups

What are your strengths?

Deadlifts and pullups

Whats your favorite WOD?

The Bear Complex

Whats your advice to someone on the fence about starting Crossfit?

Just don’t worry about what other people think. Put your worries aside. Everyone is encouraging and supportive. Just do what you can do and you will improve. Try to get the worries out of your head and go for it. Stop thinking about it. I feel like the minute I stop thinking too much, I do a lot better.

Pia Marie

• lost 30 lbs in 6 months after starting Crossfit. (Has lost 60 lbs total in the past year and a half)
• went from size 14 to a size 6
• Favorite WOD ( Workout of the Day) : Not “Kalsu”…. “Grace” is my favorite.
• Favorite Move? Kettlebell Clean and Jerk / Kettlebell Snatch
• Favorite Lift ? Front Squat because I feel balanced. I feel the fire everywhere. I can align my body properly.

Where were you before Crossfit ?

I was playing a lot of competitive Volleyball on the International Level. After College, it became harder to maintain a level of athleticism – and really, I had no idea why I was struggling. Ive always been able to overcome physical challenges because of my mental ability, but with Crossfit and Paleo, my body’s keeping up! I’m almost never injured anymore and I always used to be that one kid who saw the trainer EVERYDAY and got 4 bags of ice.

How did you hear about Brodie Park Crossfit? In what way had your training affected your career? relationships?weight? Perspective on fitness?

Michelle DeLeonardis – She told a bunch of us about the Saturday Community Workouts. I started coming to BPC late March 2012 – by May 1rst, I had signed up full time. Crossfit has opened up a whole new world for me. I’m currently strength and conditioning coach for the Athletic Program as Texas School for the Deaf, and I’ve actually got them to pay for my Level 1 Crossfit Trainer’s Certification in January 2013!

The friendships I’ve made at BPC are so unique – you dont even need to talk – just being around wonderful people working their ass off, sharing the same pain, fear, joy brings every one together in ways that are completely unique.

My weight loss is obvious. When I started in March 2012, I was counting calories, working out, etc… and I saw SLOW results – but w/ Crossfit + Paleo, I went from 170 lbs to 145 lbs in no time! For the first time in my life I now have abs! I was never a toned kid. I was strong, in shape, etc… but never “tight”. Now I’m seeing definition everywhere & getting much stronger. I have also seen a huge difference in power – I could run OR lift heavy things slowly, but now I’m much faster /stronger/ able to combine the both; speed, power, and strength.

What weaknesses are you working on right now?
Gymnastics Movements( muscle up, and butterfly pullups). Getting my hamstrings stronger for deadlifts, backsquats, and Olympic Lifts.

Where do you see yourself in the sport of Crossfit 3 mnths from now?
Its going to be Open time! (Sectionals leading up to the Crossfit Games) I want to make Regionals.

What about 1 year from now?
In a perfect world I’d start coaching, go to Regionals, Crossfit Games, and keep having fun daily!

Mental Toughness being a huge strength of yours – how do you tap into that when you are at the end of your rope in a workout?

I have ADD. So its sometimes hard to focus BUT I am super competitive and I hate losing. So regardless of how well or poorly I’m doing, I’m GONNA FINISH! I think from when I was heavier it was harder to do things but I hated being “slow” or “wrong” so I always had to do MORE.

What has been the key component of your transformation that impacts your life most directly and wholly??
The absolute largest has to be not being afraid to try new things – I went paleo. Ive tried HSPU – What?! My sister was always the gymnast and I was the Karate Kid.

How have you surprised yourself the most?

Ive run 3 miles w/ sub 8 min splits. I ran 2 miles Yesterday at 7:15 split.I’m more of spriner. So distance is tough.

Whats your advice to someone on the fence about Crossfit?

EVERYTHING is scaleable. Dont let the heavy weights or crazy moves scare you. You’ll get a workout like nothing else, and you’ll feel amazing!

Is this your sport now?

Yup! this is my sport. I’ve still got one last Volleyball hurrah in July (Deaf Olympics) but then I’m done. Its so much more fun doing Crossfit now. 2 hour volleyball practices are just too long and boring!

Why do you love it? How have you developed this passion for it?

I have ADD. Routine in wrkouts is my enemy. I love to be coaches. I love the fact I can throw everything I have into a WOD and know there are people alongside me doing the same AND cheering me on at the same time – Its a party at the wee hours of the morning!!

Rudy

Where were you before you started at BPC and how did you hear about BPC?

I was in terrible shape and had signed up for the Tough Mudder, so I was looking for a way to get in good enough shape to finish the race. This was in May and the race was in October. I had joined a local globo gym and had gone a couple of times, but I hated it and didn’t give it much effort. About the same time, someone on my neighborhood’s message board had posted something about BPC. I had heard about Crossfit before, but the only thing I knew about it was that it was super intense. I stopped in and talked to Sara and she suggested I came to a free Saturday Community WOD, so I did. It kicked my ass! But there was something about it that clicked with me and I knew this would get me in shape, so I signed up right away.

Where are you now?

I’m far from where I was and still far from where I want to go! I finished the Tough Mudder, and realized I had a long way to go still. I had originally intended to run the Tough Mudder and be done with everything, but I found that I wanted to keep going. The results I’ve seen while at BPC, both physically and mentally, keep me wanting more. What I realized is that this whole thing is more a lifestyle you adopt, rather than something you just do to get in shape. I’ve only just started!

What are your family/friends saying about your progress/success and how has it impacted your life as a whole?

Everyone is amazed at the change. My father keeps saying that he can’t believe I’ve gotten into this at my age (41), but that I’m looking good. My wife can completely tell the difference in how I look and feel. I have more energy, a positive attitude, and (best of all) more muscles! It’s translated into changes in all aspects of my life. I’m more productive at work and at home.

Stats:
pant size – from a 44 to 38-40
lbs. lost – about 20, but that’s deceiving because I’ve put on a lot of muscle
inches lost – I lost 6.75 in. doing the last 24 day challenge, but since May I’m sure it’s way more than double that number

Favorite WOD and move?

Fran and the split jerk

What’s your advice to someone on the fence about CrossFit?

Try it and be prepared to hurt! But push through it and keep coming back because if you do, you’ll fall in love with it. Your not just getting a great exercise regimen out of it, but your getting a community that supports you, is glad to see you when you come in, and will help push and encourage you when you need it most. Everyone may be at different strength and skill levels, but you’re going through everything together. It’s pretty special. For me, the community part is the best aspect of Crossfit.

How have you surprised yourself?

It happens on a weekly basis! Sometimes it’s noticing that my broad-jumps are going farther or I’m getting the kipping motion down for my pull-ups, but there’s always something. That’s the exciting part. Seeing and feeling all the hard work pay off in the little things I do. I am constantly saying to myself “did I just do that?”.

What are your strengths?

I keep going and try not to give up. Everyone needs to take a breath during a workout, and I think I’m pretty good at breaking and then getting right back into it.

What are your weaknesses?

CARDIO! I was out of shape for so long that my cardio is a real problem for me. But if I keep coming back, I know that will only get better.

What are your goals for the next three months?

I’ve gotten to the point where my only goal isn’t just to survive the WOD. That’s pretty cool. I’ve started taking my nutrition a lot more seriously and I’ve started the strength classes. I’m excited to see where I go from here. I’ve signed up for the Tough Mudder again in April, and am looking forward to seeing how I feel running this one as compared to the last one. The next several months are going to be a really exciting time. I can’t wait to see what happens!