Lizzie "Tink" - 2012 Olympic Games Intern

I had never heard of CrossFit when my roommate came home and told me about it my junior year of college. Now, over a year later, I cannot imagine my life without it. I’ve always been pretty active-I was on the swimming and water polo teams in high school and I love doing things like scuba diving and running, but I never thought I could do some of the things I saw these athletes do. When I would go to the gym with my friends at FSU I would spend hours “working out” without really having any idea what I was doing. CrossFit changed EVERYTHING-it’s not only fitness, it’s a way of life. I pushed myself and did things I never thought I would even attempt, and I became part of a family that cheered me on every step of the way. My friends look at pictures of me doing the WODs at CrossFit and tell me they could never do what they see me doing, but BELIEVE me….if I can do it, anyone can. There are some amazing athletes at CF Tally that remind me of Olympians-and I have never ONCE seen any of them give a disapproving look to someone lifting less weight, make fun of someone, or act like they are superior to anyone. If you’re there, you’re already miles ahead of most people you know.

  

            Yeah I’m not gonna lie, the workouts are hard. I have had my fair share of throwing up in my mouth a little bit (ew), feeling like I was going to pass out, and wanting to jump in my car and drive away when I saw the workout listed on that infamous chalk board. When I finished my Foundation Course with Greg I wanted to run far away, but I made a choice to be better. Let me tell you-there is absolutely nothing more rewarding in this world than doing something you thought you could never do, and pushing yourself to the fullest extent. I go to sleep proud of myself every night. I love every sore muscle in my body and I feel more alive when I wake up every morning.

  

            I am going to miss the people at CF Tally more than I can even put into words; I have definitely made life-long friends. Everyone is there for the same reason, and the support is unbelievable. There’s tough love when you need it, and nothing but encouragement every step of the way. Greg and Teresa are awesome owners who truly care about their athletes, and only want the best for us. With so many time slots available throughout the day, they make it impossible for you to make an excuse (and they get on your case if you start slacking!)

  

During my last week here, one of my trainers (and now one of my closest friends) Kim, told me mid work-out, “You finally got it. You found your strength and you’re not scared anymore.”  CF has turned me into the person I want to be. If you don’t go out of your comfort zone, how will you ever grow? Growth is beautiful, change is beautiful, and CrossFit has helped me become the person I’ve always wanted to be. 

  

  For a little while longer Tink is a current member of CFTally.