Life will be tough, there is no way around it, there will be good days and bad days. Your fitness journey is no different.
I was fortunate to find a local gym to help me get through the rough times. Over the past few years, I’ve had a stretch of ups and downs. Periods where I felt down, stressed, and burdened by everything going on: long shift work while I was a city cop, having multiple injuries that put an instant halt to my training, and even losing loved ones.
To help get over this, I found myself being around my CrossFit community more and more. It was important for me to stay active and be around the community because I saw how crucial the gym was to both my physical fitness and mental health. After experiencing the power of a CrossFit community, I dreamt of creating a place that would help others get through their rough periods of life. At Souris Valley CrossFit, this what we do.
Below is a random list of things I have learned and continue to learn from my fitness journey and helping others with theirs:
1. I can do hard things. No matter the obstacle or situation, I can overcome it.
2. Challenges that seem easy, usually aren’t. Challenges that seem hard, aren’t as hard as you think.
3. Listen to your coaches; they have you in their best interest and want to see you succeed.
4. Mistakes are inevitable. They are made inside and outside the gym. The key is to try to only make them once!
5. Sometimes, the workout feels quick, other times… FOREVER. Just like life, the good seems to go fast, the bad seems to drag on. Cherish the good times and enjoy them. The bad will pass and eventually be over.
6. When struggling with a movement, prioritize proper technique and stay consistent, especially in times of frustration.
7. There is power in encouragement. Working out in front of people while they cheer you on is a great tool to help you achieve things you thought you couldn’t. Other’s encouragement has made me stronger, and it fills my cup to cheer on others.
8. I should have tried to do more handstands as a kid.
9. Surprising results come from sheer determination and will power to push through. Your body can do more. Your mind will give up before your body.
10. The strongest or the weakest muscle in your body is usually between your ears. Make it the strongest for success. Talk to yourself and cheer yourself on like you do for others even if you are the only one in the room.
What would you put on this list? Take a moment to reflect on your own fitness journey. How has the gym and the community helped you in your life?
While going through my journey of being a meat head football player to aspiring CrossFit athlete and now CrossFit gym owner, it has been the biggest privilege to help other people achieve the things they never thought they could. This is something I am thankful for everyday. Always remember, on the days you feel like you can’t do it, you can, you’re capable, all you need to do is try. You don’t know if you don’t try.
Getting yourself to the gym to start your fitness journey is usually the most difficult part. I want you to close your eyes and imagine you are driving to the gym. You are now walking through the doors of Souris Valley CrossFit, your snow boots are off, coat hung up, workout shoes on and you’re stepping into the warm-up area. The others inside the gym are greeting you and asking how you are — I bet you feel better already.
Bryce Broome – Owner Souris valley CrossFit
If you’re ready to take the next step and join a welcoming community, book a no sweat intro to start your fitness journey with us!
