Irene’s 9-Year CrossFit Journey: From Routine to Strength

“I started CrossFit to get out of my exercise rut,” Irene shares. “I enjoyed the variety of workouts and energy of a CrossFit workout.” She was hooked from the start.

When Natalie and Lauren created CrossFit Dwell in 2022, Irene knew something special was happening. “I knew they were going to build a great gym with a family-type atmosphere,” she explains. For Irene, it wasn’t just about the workouts anymore. It was about the supportive environment and community that kept her coming back.

Meeting Expectations—and Then Some

Irene expected CrossFit to be challenging, and it delivered. But what she didn’t expect was how much she’d learn about listening to her body and adapting workouts to suit her needs.

“I expected hard workouts that I could do on some days and would need to modify on other days,” she says. This flexibility helped her stay consistent and avoid burnout. It also reinforced one of CrossFit’s core principles: everyone can do it, regardless of age or fitness level.

Changes That Go Beyond Fitness

Since starting CrossFit, Irene has experienced more than just physical changes. Fitness has become a cornerstone of her life, something she prioritizes with consistency.

“Fitness has become a very important part of my life,” Irene explains. “Not only has it helped with my physical strengths, but my emotional well-being, too.”

Making her health a priority has also allowed her to stay resilient through life’s challenges. By committing to her workouts 4-5 times a week, Irene has built strength—both physically and mentally. She’s a regular in the gym’s Committed Club, and she even completed the 100-Workout Challenge from July to December 2024.

Her dedication serves as a reminder that fitness isn’t just about the time you spend in the gym; it’s about creating a mindset that supports your overall well-being.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

Like any fitness journey, Irene’s hasn’t been without its challenges. For her, the biggest hurdle has been adapting her workouts as she gets older.

“Navigating the way I need to work out as I get older has been the biggest challenge,” she admits. But instead of letting this discourage her, Irene has embraced the process of learning and adjusting. She listens to her body and modifies workouts when needed, all while staying committed to her goals. When needed, the coaches at CrossFit Dwell help her choose options that work for her.

Her journey highlights an important lesson: fitness isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about finding what works for you and making adjustments as life changes.

Staying Motivated and Looking Ahead

When asked what she is most proud of, Irene’s answer is simple: her consistency. Showing up 4-5 times a week, month after month, is no small feat. It is this commitment that has allowed her to make meaningful progress and improve her strength over the years.

Looking ahead, Irene’s goals are focused on staying consistent, gaining strength, and improving her mobility. She knows that by continuing to prioritize her health, she’ll be able to maintain her independence and enjoy life to the fullest.

Advice for Beginners

For anyone considering starting their fitness journey, Irene offers this advice: “Push yourself to do better, but at the same time, don’t be so hard on yourself. You can’t compare yourself to others when working out. Everyone is on their own journey.”

This is a reminder that fitness is as much about mindset as it is about movement. By focusing on your own progress and staying consistent, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.

Start Your Journey at CrossFit Dwell

Irene’s story shows that now is the right time to prioritize your health. Whether you’re looking to break out of a routine, build strength, or find a supportive community, CrossFit Dwell can help you get there.