Beth Wilhelmi

Do you still do that Crossfit thing?  

I can’t even count the number of times I’ve been asked this question or one very similar to it.  What does this question really mean anyway? My thoughts usually go straight to, “I must have gained weight.”  With some hesitation and awkwardness, I let them know I do still do that Crossfit thing. While the question is somewhat curious, my answer is not.

These are my people.  My Crossfit family is the biggest reason I keep coming back for more.  In the wee hours of the morning, we visit about our families, jobs, celebrations and the struggles of daily life.   We miss each other when someone is on vacation. We notice when someone isn’t showing up. We hold each other accountable. We rally in silent support and drag each other to the finish line on days when the workout is getting the better of us. We spend the first hours of the day together. In fact, my 5 am crew sees me as no one except family ever would – no makeup, messy hair, sheet marks still on my arm.  These friends get the rawest, truest version of me. I adore these people. I admire their strength and perseverance. They are my family. They are my friends.

We have a running joke…are you here for fitness?  Do you want to get better? The honest answer is a resounding YES!  I am always in the gym for the fitness. I am extremely hard on myself, and I fight with my inner-voice on a daily basis (as we all do).  The good news is that I have come a really long way. When I started Crossfit Boot Camp in my neighborhood park (yes, that used to be an option), I couldn’t do a sit-up or push up.  With dedication, time, persistence and the encouragement of many great coaches along the way, I can do those movements and much more. I know myself, and I know I’ll never be satisfied.  Each big win, like doing consecutive pull-ups or double-unders for the first time, makes me want to keep pushing toward the next goal. Luckily we are blessed with amazing coaches at Crossfit Round Rock who not only have the skill and patience to take us to the next level but who also bring their “fitness A-game” every single day.  A special thank you to Coach Kali for seeing things in me I can’t begin to see in myself!

A moment of clarity hit me about a year and a half ago.   Even though I had been a Crossfitter for a long time and participated in many initiatives, it didn’t really click for me.  A potential health situation forced my hand. My nutrition and fitness goals aligned, and suddenly it all made sense. Fine-tuning in a few areas not only changed my perspective but also the ability to step up my game.  My health issue completely disappeared after 3 years of worrying. I feel better than ever, and I am excited to see what the future holds. I am determined to age gracefully with fitness and health at the heart of it all.  

I am a 43-year-old mother of three.  I started Crossfit 7 years ago with some very simple goals in mind.  I wanted to fit into my clothes, and I wanted to make sure my arm would stop waving when I did.  While these same goals still make the cut, I’ve come to appreciate so much more about my personal Crossfit experience.  I have more goals than I can count, some of which I am not ready to say out loud.

So, back to the original question.  Yes, I still do that Crossfit thing and I intend to keep on doing it.  I hope you are asking because you notice my fitness and not the lack of it.  Keep those questions coming. I’m learning to take them as a compliment

-Beth Wilhelmi