Shari joined the CrossFit Dwell community in July 2023, although she didn’t start working out regularly until September. As a lifelong athlete, Shari had always been active, but when COVID hit, it forced her to take a break. The softball league she had been a part of for years closed down, leaving her searching for a new way to stay fit. She had not been part of an organized fitness class in over 30 years, but when she discovered CrossFit, she was intrigued by the variety of equipment and physical challenges it offers.
However, like many of us who try something new, Shari wasn’t quite sure what to expect. After all, CrossFit has a reputation for being tough, and it had been a while since she participated in any kind of structured fitness program. But what she found at CrossFit Dwell went well beyond her expectations. In fact, it changed her perspective on group fitness.
Discovering a Whole New World
Shari admits that she’s a bit contrary by nature. She’s not usually the type to enjoy being “told what to do,” and she initially worried that group classes wouldn’t be her thing. But the experience at CrossFit Dwell turned out to be different than what she had imagined.
The coaches, she says, do an incredible job of individualizing each workout, tailoring the experience to fit the needs of every athlete, regardless of age or fitness level. Whether you’re a seasoned CrossFitter or just starting out, they meet you where you are. For Shari, this approach made all the difference. “The coaches are great at providing the right mix of positivity and encouragement,” she says. “They aren’t just telling you what to do—they’re helping you figure out what works best for you.”
But what surprised Shari the most was the sense of community she found at CrossFit Dwell. She wasn’t expecting to make so many new friends or to feel so welcomed into the gym’s atmosphere of camaraderie. “The biggest (and happiest) surprise was how many new friends I would make and what a wonderful atmosphere of community the gym is,” she shares.
It’s more than just a place to work out. For Shari, it became a place where she found genuine connections with people who share similar goals and challenges.
Making Unexpected Progress
When Shari first joined CrossFit Dwell, her plan was to attend classes twice a week. She figured that would be enough to stay active and keep up with her fitness. But as it turns out, she was having so much fun that she quickly upped her attendance to 4-5 times a week. She has been a member of our Committed Club for 9 consecutive months in 2024! That means she has attended at least 15 sessions each of those months. Her consistency has contributed to some great results.
Every workout brings her closer to achieving her personal goals, and one of the things she’s most proud of is her ability to scale the majority of the workouts. CrossFit workouts can be modified to meet each athlete’s level of fitness, and for Shari, this has been key to her progress. Whether it’s adjusting weights, reps, or movements, the coaches help her find the right balance between challenge and capability.
One particular achievement that stands out for her is mastering box jumps—a movement that can be intimidating for many. “Being able to do box jumps was a big win,” Shari says. For her, it was a tangible reminder of the progress she’s made and the strength she’s gained since joining the gym.
Embracing the Challenges
Of course, no fitness journey is without its challenges, and Shari has certainly had her share. At 64, she admits that her body doesn’t always perform the way her brain or muscle memory thinks it should. “It’s been very humbling,” she says, recognizing that the aging process sometimes means having to adjust her expectations. However, Shari’s mindset is one of determination and resilience. She doesn’t let those challenges stop her from moving forward. Instead, she uses them as motivation to continue getting stronger and faster.
Shari has also set some new goals for herself as she looks toward the future. She wants to keep improving her strength and speed, and she’s working on making peace with certain exercises that she jokingly refers to as “frenemies.” Running, wall balls, burpees, and the bike are on that list—but Shari remains optimistic. “We’re currently ‘frenemies,’ but I have hope for our relationship,” she says.
The Power of Showing Up
When asked what advice she would give to her past self or to anyone considering starting their fitness journey at CrossFit Dwell, Shari’s answer is simple: “Just show up.”
“You may not feel like getting up and going to the gym, but I promise you’ll feel better for having gone, physically, mentally, and emotionally,” she says. It’s a reminder that the hardest part is often just getting through the door, but once you do, the benefits far outweigh any hesitation. The combination of a great workout, a supportive community, and positive coaches makes every class worth it.
Why CrossFit Dwell Is Different
Shari can’t stop talking about CrossFit Dwell—and with good reason. What she loves most is the atmosphere that the coaches have created. She describes the environment as safe, happy, and supportive, which is what sets this gym apart from other fitness programs.
“It’s not just another workout program,” she says. “The coaches here genuinely care about each athlete, and that’s what makes this place special.” Whether you’re working on scaling a workout, struggling with a movement, or celebrating a new personal record, the coaches are there to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to Start Your Own Journey?
Shari’s experience at CrossFit Dwell is a testament to what can happen when you find the right gym. It’s more than just a place to work out—it’s a community that lifts you up and helps you grow, both physically and mentally.
If Shari’s story resonates with you, why not take the first step toward your own transformation? Come in for a free intro and see for yourself what makes CrossFit Dwell such a special place. You won’t just be joining a gym—you’ll be joining a family.
So, are you ready to challenge yourself, build strength, and become part of an amazing community? We can’t wait to meet you and hear about your goals!