Try Something New at Least Once!

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I am a bit of a risk taker (regarding certain things). I’ll try a new food once, a new brand, product, or exercise. My theory is if you try something once and don’t like it, you don’t have to do it again.

This is something I want to instill in my sons. The most recent new experience for us (post-kids) was trying CrossFit. Right after my oldest was born, my husband needed a change. His friends told him about CrossFit, and he took an intro class at CrossFit Norwalk. He came home pretty beat up after that class, but that didn’t stop him. He lost 70 pounds within the first year and has kept it off. He encouraged me to try it, but I wasn’t ready.

I joined CrossFit Norwalk in January 2014. What finally made me join? I was having a difficult time losing weight after my youngest was born. I felt physically terrible and didn’t want my sons to see me struggle. After watching my husband’s weight loss and maintenance success, I figured it was time. My husband informed the owner, Susan Friedman, that I wanted to try a class. A few days later, I was there.

It wasn’t just the workout that made me join that week, but the sense of community among the other athletes and coaches. Everyone is supportive, whether they are parents themselves or one of the top athletes in the gym. Babysitting is offered, which is great because the kids can watch us work out. It is pretty comical to watch them watching us. They sometimes mimic the movements (without any equipment).

I have lost four inches since joining but gained strength physically and through the community. It was worth the risk.

The owner of CrossFit Norwalk, Susan, started her journey with CrossFit about seven years ago. She was a mother to two teenagers looking to make some positive changes in her life. She tried other methods of exercise before and decided to try CrossFit with some friends. Their first WOD (workout of the day) was “Fight Gone Bad.”  Disclaimer: Please do not try this workout alone if you are unfamiliar with the movements!

After this workout, Susan was hooked! She became passionate about CrossFit for the workouts and the sense of community and support she received and provided her fellow members.  

Within 18 months of her first class, becoming comfortable with the sport, and certifying to become a trainer, Susan opened her own gym. She wanted to create a place where people could learn the sport safely and have fun, and make a community that she is proud of.

She is now in her second expanded location, thanks to the support of the CrossFit Norwalk community and her family. Susan also achieved another milestone – the 2014 National Master Weightlifting Champion! The best part about taking this risk for herself and her family is that her children are proud of her for achieving success in something she is passionate about.

Susan in an overhead press position
Susan in an overhead press position

If there is something you want to try, attempt it once. Being a parent doesn’t mean you can’t try new things. Show your children that risks are a form of learning and enjoyment.  

If you want to start a new workout, like CrossFit, you can locate one through the CrossFit website. Live in the Norwalk area? Try a free class at CrossFit Norwalk. You can contact Susan directly at (203) 939-1040; she will be happy to set it up for you. Check out their website for more information on all that CrossFit Norwalk offers (they even have CrossFit Kids classes!).

2 COMMENTS

  1. Awesome post sista! Funny enough, before I clicked the link I was actually thinking, “wow, Erica is really brave, she will literally try ANYthing once.” You’re such a good mommy and it’s really wonderful that you show your boys all the time that trying new things can be so fun! Keep up the great work– I already can’t wait to read next week’s post! Xoxo

  2. Thanks! I think if I wrote this post 20 years ago, it would start out “I am NOT a risk taker. I’m fine the way I am.” If my father ever reads this post he will laugh at the first few lines but should see that his persistence paid off, especially since I was an exceptionally picky eater.

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