Q: How did you find out about Ballston CrossFit (BCF) and what convinced you to join the gym?
When I moved to Arlington, I tried just about every gym in the area, but Ballston CrossFit felt completely different. The sense of community stood out right away, and I loved the variety of class times. It makes it easy to fit workouts into my life instead of rearranging my life around the gym.
Q: What stopped you from joining the gym sooner?
Honestly, the stereotype that CrossFit leads to injuries. But I’ve learned that as long as you listen to your body, push yourself wisely, and prioritize good form, you’ll be just fine.
Q: When did you start at BCF and what goals did you set when you joined?
I started in July 2024 with the goal of making working out something I looked forward to instead of a chore or obligation. Now, the WOD is the best part of my day, and I find myself counting down the hours until class.
Q: What has helped you achieve success at BCF?
Consistency, consistency, consistency! Progress takes time, but if you dedicate yourself to showing up and putting in the work, the results follow. To get my first pull-up, I practiced almost every day for months, and it paid off!
Q: What advice can you give to others who are new to CrossFit?
Don’t be afraid to try new things! No one is judging you. You might not get a skill on the first try or the hundredth, but if you keep at it, you’ll get there and it’ll feel amazing when you do.
Q: Besides working out, what other lifestyle changes did you make outside of the gym to achieve your goals?
I focused on finding other forms of joyful movement, choosing activities because they make me happy, not because I feel obligated to do them. I love swing and line dancing, and I’ve been exploring aerial silks and Lyra classes. I’ve also shifted my mindset around food, seeing it as fuel that supports the things I love rather than just counting calories.
Q: What is the biggest benefit you’ve noticed since starting CrossFit? (both in and out of the gym)
I’ve developed a real sense of gratitude for my body, for how it moves and all the things it allows me to do in and out of the gym. I now value it not for how it looks, but for what it can do.
Q: What has been your favorite thing about BCF?
The people, 100%! I’ve met some of my closest friends (shoutout Barb, ily!) through this gym. The community and coaches are endlessly supportive and make every workout more fun.
Q: What has been your favorite memory related to CrossFit?
Getting my first rope climb! When I started, it seemed impossible, I thought there’s NO WAY I’m ever climbing all the way up there. When I finally did it, I had never felt more capable, and it taught me that I can do anything I set my mind to.
Q: What’s one thing you love about this gym that has nothing to do with working out?
The people 🙂 They make BCF feel like home.
