A Shared Journey for the Long Haul
For Kalee and Ryan, CrossFit Fig has been more than just a gym; it’s been a central part of their family’s life for nearly a decade. With Kalee joining ten years ago and Ryan following close behind, their journey has evolved from personal fitness goals to a family affair, complete with lifelong friendships and countless memories. CrossFit has become woven into the fabric of their lives, benefiting not only their health but also their two kids, who’ve grown up watching their parents commit to an active lifestyle.
The Motivation to Begin
Kalee’s fitness journey began with a simple Groupon for Kettlebox classes, before CrossFit Fig even made the switch to CrossFit. Eager to get back in shape after having her first child, she found herself hooked. Ryan, inspired by Kalee’s stories of workouts that were “wonderfully awful,” joined a year later. In his early 30s and motivated to improve his health for his daughter’s sake, he took the plunge. In one funny but telling moment, he tried his hand at a 20-inch jump on their couch, breaking the armrest in his enthusiasm!
Community: The Heartbeat of Their Journey
For both Kalee and Ryan, the community at CrossFit Fig has become their second family. Kalee reflects on how the gym became a home away from home, a place where her 11-year-old daughter and 5-year-old son were practically raised. Their daughter now loves CrossFit Kids, and their son eagerly awaits his turn to join. Ryan shares how the people at Fig inspire him to be a better person, noting that the friendships they’ve formed feel like lifelong connections. Even their daughter has found her best friend through CrossFit Kids, making it a family affair from top to bottom.
Milestones That Matter
Kalee recalls a powerful moment in 2018 when she hit a personal record, deadlifting 205 lbs in the CrossFit Open, a major accomplishment for her at the time. For Ryan, the proudest milestone was losing 40 pounds through consistent fitness and a focus on nutrition. These achievements reflect the progress they’ve both made, each on their unique path but with mutual support along the way.
Transformation Beyond Physical Health
Kalee and Ryan’s commitment to CrossFit Fig has shaped not only their physical fitness but also their family values. Kalee’s perspective on staying active centers around being strong and capable for her everyday life. As a nurse, she’s often called on to help lift patients and feels grateful that her fitness allows her to take on those challenges with confidence. Ryan, having grown up in a household where fitness wasn’t a priority, takes pride in setting a different example for their kids. He enjoys seeing his children mimic their workouts and ask to join in a clear sign of the healthy influence their lifestyle is having on the next generation.
Overcoming Obstacles Together
Fitness hasn’t always been easy. Kalee faced unique challenges during her pregnancies, particularly in modifying workouts and setting realistic post-pregnancy goals. Returning to the gym with a fresh perspective, she learned to check her ego and celebrate progress at her own pace. Ryan, too, has encountered various injuries and setbacks over the years. With the support of CrossFit Fig’s coaches, he’s learned the value of patience and checking his ego, realizing that taking a step back can lead to greater gains in the long run.
Favorite Movements
Kalee’s favorite movement? Burpees, yes, burpees! While it might make others groan, she loves the simplicity and mental grit they require. For Ryan, the squat snatch is the ultimate move. It combines strength, explosiveness, and technical skill, a challenge he enjoys every time it comes up in a workout.
Advice for Newcomers: Focus on Your Own Path
Kalee’s advice for anyone starting their fitness journey is simple but powerful: don’t compare yourself to others. Your journey is unique, and the most important thing is to focus on your progress. Ryan echoes her sentiment, highlighting that CrossFit Fig’s community and coaches are always ready to help anyone at any level get started.
A Fun Family Fact
While Kalee couldn’t think of a fun fact about herself, Ryan has a lighthearted revelation: his impressive calves are pure genetics, not CrossFit-earned.
A Word of Thanks
Both Kalee and Ryan feel immense gratitude for the coaches at CrossFit Fig. Beyond just training, they’ve experienced genuine care from coaches who are invested not only in their fitness but also in their personal lives. For Kalee and Ryan, CrossFit Fig’s coaches are truly making a difference, one day, and one rep at a time.
A Legacy of Health and Happiness
For Kalee and Ryan, CrossFit Fig is more than a place to work out. It’s the heart of their community, a source of strength, and a foundation of health for their family. They’ve built not only stronger bodies but also a legacy of health and happiness that they’re proud to pass on to their children.
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