Q: How did you find out about Ballston CrossFit (BCF) and what convinced you to join the gym?

I was looking for group exercise classes and had done a ton of internet research on various options in Arlington and the surrounding area for a few weeks. I even tried an intro class at another gym (not CrossFit) that wasn’t a good fit for me.  Somehow, even though I had included CrossFit gyms in my search, BCF hadn’t come up in my research, but I was out at dinner at the Melting Pot (upstairs in the BCF building) one night and saw the gym.  I went home and googled BCF that evening and reached out with questions. The managers answered my questions, I came in for a free class, and I’ve been with BCF ever since.

Q: What stopped you from joining the gym sooner?

I had some exercise equipment in my home gym and I thought I could meet my goals without doing anything structured. (I couldn’t. My home equipment mostly collected dust. I needed the structure and accountability BCF provides…) 

Q: When did you start at BCF and what were your goals you set when you joined the gym?

I joined in December 2024. My goals were really general – just to get more active and healthier. I had spurts of activity in my 20s and 30s and a home gym I used occasionally, but in general, I was pretty sedentary. I have a family history of heart disease and diabetes. As I transitioned into my 40s, I realized that if I didn’t get more active, I was going continue that history, so I wanted to get ahead of that, and I was hoping BCF could help provide the structure and accountability to get me there. 

Q: What has helped you achieve success at BCF?

The supportive coaches and the welcoming community.  Although there’s a competitive aspect to CrossFit, everything can be scaled to your particular fitness and skill level.  When I was first starting, and I was consistently one of the most out-of-shape, poor performing athletes in the gym, I really appreciated that everyone met me where I was, explained ways to scale the exercises, and never judged the fact that it was obvious how out-of-shape I was. 

Q: What advice can you give to others who are new to CrossFit?

Set realistic goals and try not to compare your performance to other class participants. BCF has a wide range of athletic skill, but everyone was a beginner at one point and everyone is understanding of the work that goes into starting out. 

Q: Besides working out, what other lifestyle changes did you make outside of the gym to achieve your goals?

I’ve never been a big fan of stretching and my flexibility reflects that, but I have worked to build a habit of stretching more, including on days when I don’t work out. I’ve also been making a more focused effort at eating more whole foods and less processed foods.

Q: What is the biggest benefit you have noticed since starting CrossFit? (both in or out of the gym)

My motivation behind starting CrossFit is general improved health. I recently had a health check-up and all my vitals were dramatically improved compared with before I started CrossFit!

Q: What has been your favorite thing about BCF?

All of the encouraging coaches! In particular, weeknights with Beth and Travis, and a special thanks to Kris, Bobby, Brock, and Dr. Scott Murray, who were super-helpful and supportive.

Q: What has been your favorite memory related to CrossFit? 

The feeling of accomplishment the first time I lifted 100lbs! 

Q: What’s one thing you love about this gym that has nothing to do with working out? 

I already said this earlier, but how welcoming everyone is. I’m not a naturally outgoing person, but I appreciate how many people made a point of introducing themselves when I was first starting. (and still do when I come across coaches and athletes I haven’t met before)