Featured Athlete – Michele Stone

My name is Michele Stone and I started CrossFit 4 months ago on June 1, 2012. When Neal asked me to be the featured athlete I was humbled. Me? Really? I felt like I had just won Homecoming Queen! I have no idea how I worked up the nerve to walk into CFB but it’s the best decision I have ever made. Never have I loved anything so much in my life! Neal, Kara, Toben, and everyone at CFB create such a welcoming and supportive environment. The friendships I’ve made are part if the reason I love CrossFit so much.

I first heard about CrossFit from my coworker, Casey. Seeing the amazing transformation he went through, and the enthusiasm he had encouraged me to give it a try. I asked him a ton of questions like “Can girls do it?” and “Are you sure girls can do it?” Next I went to the CFB website and read it entirely. All it took was that first Saturday class and I was hooked!

Since starting I have lost almost 30 pounds and gone down 4 sizes in jeans! Never in my life have I felt more confident in myself and my abilities. I come to the box every time prepared to give 100%. My only goal is to be “better than yesterday.” That is what I tell all of the new people who come to CrossFit. There is not a day that goes by where I don’t get asked, “What are you doing? You look amazing!” And boy do I tell them! I eat Paleo which has also helped with my success; Meat, vegetables, fruits, and nuts, that’s my motto! I love sharing my success with my friends because they have watched me every step of the way. I am honored when I see one of my friends come into the box, knowing I encouraged them to do so.

When I started I could barely run 200 meters, had to do ring pull ups, and knee push ups. Now I can proudly  say I ran a mile AFTER the workout because I wanted to, not because the coach told me to do it! I’m getting better all around; I’ve recently gotten my first double unders and unassisted kipping pull ups.  I am most proud of my 173 pound back squat. The harder the WOD looks, the more I can’t wait to try it. Every time I leave the box I feel like a ROCK STAR!

My favorite activities are squat cleans, pull ups, wall balls and the dreaded burpee! The word insane comes to mind!! No pain, no gain, baby!

Never could I have imagined how much CrossFit could change my life. I am happier and healthier than I have ever been. Nothing means more than when my daughter, Madeline, hugged me and said, “Mommy you look so good. I am proud,of you!” My mission is to make sure EVERYONE knows that ANYONE can do Crossfit, and it will change your life.