In August 2022, Michelle walked through the doors of CrossFit Dwell for the first time. She wasn’t just looking for a workout for herself. She was looking for a way to help her 14-year-old daughter stay strong and active after stepping away from competitive gymnastics. CrossFit seemed like it might be a good fit, and when she saw a Facebook post about Natalie and her daughter opening a gym, she knew this was the place to try.
What started as a way to support her daughter quickly became something more—Michelle fell in love with the workouts and the incredible community.
Overcoming the Fear Factor
Like many who are new to CrossFit, Michelle had some doubts at first. She expected it to be really tough and worried that she wouldn’t be able to keep up. She assumed everyone would already be super fit and strong. But she quickly realized that CrossFit Dwell wasn’t just for elite athletes—it was for everyone.
“Everyone was working on their own fitness journey at different stages,” Michelle recalls. “Everything was scalable to a level that I could both be challenged and feel doable.”
That realization made all the difference. Instead of feeling out of place, she felt empowered. She could push herself while still moving at a pace that worked for her. And soon enough, what once felt impossible started to feel within reach.
A Shift in Mindset
Over time, Michelle’s perspective on fitness changed. She no longer saw CrossFit as something only for the ultra-fit. She saw that anyone—at any age or fitness level—could do it. And she proved that to herself every day.
She gained strength, lifting heavier weights than she ever imagined. She overcame fears and tried new things. She built confidence in her abilities, not just in the gym but in everyday life.
“I’m proud that I deadlifted 275 pounds,” she says. “I see the strength and improvements in my everyday life. I am able to carry the dog who weighs 54 pounds up the stairs with ease. I can volunteer in a warehouse with Operation Christmas Child and lift heavy boxes by myself without a two person lift. The thing that I am most proud of is just showing up to take care of myself. When I am strong and healthy, I can take care of those around me so much better.””
That kind of strength doesn’t just change how you look—it changes how you live.
Finding Unexpected Joys
One of the biggest surprises for Michelle was just how much she enjoyed showing up to class. What started as a fitness experiment turned into a lifestyle. She has attended over 500 classes since she began and she completed CrossFit Dwell’s 100-Workout Challenge between July 1- December 31, 2024. That is a huge accomplishment!
“I am proud of my consistency in attending classes. I am bummed when I have to miss. I made the Committed Club two years in a row,” she says. “There are so many bright spots along the way.”
Consistency breeds progress, and for Michelle, it has been incredible for us to see just how far she has come.
Pushing Through Challenges
Despite all her progress, Michelle still faces challenges. In the gym, she sometimes doubts her potential and holds back out of fear of failure. Coach Lauren will often encourage her to try new things or to add a little extra weight to the barbell. Outside the gym, nutrition is her biggest struggle.
She admits to having perfectionist tendencies that sometimes make her hesitant to push herself too hard. But she’s learning to overcome that mindset and embrace the idea that growth comes from trying—even when it’s scary.
Looking Ahead
Michelle has big goals, but she is keeping them a secret for now. What she does share is her desire to stay strong and active as she ages. She wants to be able to keep up with grandkids someday, get up and down off the floor with ease, and explore the world without being held back by fatigue.
“I feel like my best days are ahead of me,” she says. “I want to stay active, travel, hike, and live a full life without limitations.”
She knows that fitness isn’t just about today—it’s an investment in her future self.
The Power of Community
One of the most unexpected and rewarding aspects of Michelle’s journey has been the sense of community she’s found at CrossFit Dwell.
“I am so thankful that I walked in the door of CrossFit Dwell. I found an amazing, one-of-a-kind community that I didn’t even know I needed,” she shares.
The encouragement, support, and friendships she’s built have been just as important as the physical strength she’s gained. The environment at CrossFit Dwell pushes her to be her best, even when she’s doubting herself.
“There are many times I look at a workout and think, ‘There’s no way.’ But I show up, and I prove to myself that I can do it. If I can do it, anyone can.”
Advice for Anyone Thinking About Starting
Michelle’s advice to anyone considering CrossFit? Just start.
“There will never be a perfect time to get healthy. You have to make it a priority now,” she says. “Life will always have obstacles, but your journey is YOUR journey. You can’t compare it to anyone else. I would suggest to enjoy the process as you go.”
She understands the hesitation because she felt it, too. But looking back, she’s so glad she took that first step.
Are You Ready to Start Your Journey?
Michelle’s story is proof that CrossFit is about building strength, confidence, and a better life. We are so proud of her for all she has achieved!
Are you ready to prove to yourself what you are capable of? Schedule a free intro at CrossFit Dwell today. Your journey starts with just one step through the door.