When I first started CrossFit, I wanted to do all the cool things. The ring and bar muscle-ups. Toes to Bar. Shoot – I just wanted to be able to do pull-ups! And don’t get me started on snatches and double unders.
Let’s be honest. I wanted to be able to put Rx next to my name in my workouts. I wanted to run, every single day.
And I, self-admittedly, probably rushed a lot of it. I didn’t take the time to truly master the basics and learn the movements before muscling my way through it, literally.
I had been scared to start, but once I did, I wanted more. It was a challenge every day, but it was also so satisfying to be able to do things I never thought I’d be able to do. I worked hard and put in extra work most days, but a lot of the movements still eluded me. And looking back now, I recognize why.
But that takes maturity and knowledge and learning to take a step back. I wasn’t able to do so many of the things I wanted to do, because I didn’t master the basics. I didn’t understand how to do the simple things, which were stepping stones for the more complex things.
I didn’t know that I needed it, but I’m thankful for my post-partum journey after having my son. It forced me to take a step back and focus on the basics. Not only was I recovering from pregnancy, but I’d also had an emergency c-section so I was recovering from that surgery, as well.
Yes, I still had my fitness, but I definitely felt like I was back at step 1. I moved more intentionally, I focused on quality movement over quantity, and I focused on strict work – regaining my strength before focusing on intensity or stamina.
I feel stronger now at 2.5 years post-partum than I did in the years leading up to my pregnancy. Shoot, I feel stronger now than I did in my 20s! Ah – the beauty of maturity and growing older, LOL!
I’m happy for this journey I’ve been on. I’m happy for what I’ve learned and what I’m able to teach people new to CrossFit. You have to learn to walk before you can run. You have to learn the simple movements; master the basics. Then we can add more complex movements, more intensity.
And in the long run, you’ll be better for it. Less injuries, stronger movement patterns, more fun!
So what do you say? Are you ready to learn to walk? We’d love to have you in to CFC! Let’s learn the basics, see what your body can do, and get healthy in the process!
Have a beautiful week! I can’t wait to meet you!
Whitney
