Why did you start at Bellum?
I started at Bellum because David and I were looking for something that we could do together. The eating out and social activities had caught up to us and we knew we needed to change our eating/working out habits. Jenai had reached out to David about trying a CrossFit class so we decided to give it a try.
Jenai welcomed us with a big smile and walked us through the entire workout. I communicated with Jenai and Ann that I didn’t have much experience with working out and they assured me that modifications could always be made along the way. Working out at Bellum is always a positive experience with plenty of support and I don’t think that I could ever go back to a regular gym.
You became more consistent in the last year, what caused this change?
I initially became more consistent at the gym because I wanted to look and feel my best at my wedding. I had a goal and I was determined to achieve it. During my commitment to becoming more consistent I realized that the workouts we’re getting easier and I could see a change in my body.
Going to the gym became a part of my routine after a while. I no longer wanted to miss a week or two because I knew how hard that first day back would feel. The consistency lasted after my wedding and working out was no longer temporary, it became a life change.
What have you noticed since becoming more consistent?
Since becoming more consistent I have noticed that not only has my body changed, but so has my mindset about working out. I used to skip going to the gym for weeks or just show up 2-3 times a week. Now I get upset with myself if I can’t get to the gym 5-6 times a week. I show up because I enjoy going, not because I have to. I view working out as a way to make my day better.
How has this positively impacted other areas of your life?
I lead a much healthier life now. Going to the gym makes me a healthier/happier person. Working my butt off at the gym makes it easier to make healthier food choices. When I would start my day at the gym during the summer, I found that the rest of my day would be more productive.
What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my consistency. I feel bad when I miss a day at the gym and I don’t feel my best. Spending an hour at Bellum has become a part of my everyday routine. I am proud that when I traveled to Mexico over the summer I packed gym clothes and sneakers. I still felt the need to keep my body moving even on vacation.
What keeps you coming back for more?
First, the people who go to Bellum. I am inspired daily by the women who are there day in and day out. I will sometimes take a rest during my workouts and just watch the greatness around me. How could I not want to better myself when I see how hard everyone else is working? Not only are the people at Bellum motivational, but they are also kind, humble, and helpful. Whether you are a veteran or a newbie, everyone is treated equally.
It’s always fun and easy to walk through the doors of Bellum, and the coaches always show a personal interest in everyone. Jenai is always there with a smile, asking how my day is going. It feels good to know that she genuinely cares about each and every one of us. CrossFit also gives me confidence that I have never had before. I look and feel my best when I am consistently working out.
At 31 years old, I truly feel like an athlete, and I have never felt that way before.
What’s the next goal you have in sight?
I am all about the upper body strength now. I’m ready to get all the pull ups and push-ups.
How do you balance the gym with your work and social life?
It’s not always easy, but making time for the gym is worth it. I try to plan my weeks ahead of time. If I have meetings after school, social commitments, or a ton of school work to do then I’ll try to get to a morning class. Mon-Fri is usually just work then gym, it’s my routine. I’ve become used to it. Some weeks are harder than others, and I do listen to my body if I’m feeling like I need a break.
