Here is a wonderful post from one of our New You Participants and now full time CrossFitter Christine B.  Take a few minutes and hear her story.

When I joined the New You Challenge it was almost a year to the date I was diagnosed with a severe case of West Nile, which became neuroinvasive and resulted in hospitalization for meningitis and encephalitis. I fought for each day. I had lost the ability to walk unassisted, could hardly eat, had no strength or fitness left, and dropped almost 20 pounds. I began to exercise again in February of this year and by May was running a few miles 4-5 days a week. By July I started to feel better and regain some fitness, but was still severely lacking in stamina, strength, and mobility. My usual fitness routine was not delivering the results I desired and while my spouse and I maintained a healthy diet most of the time, it was clear something had to change if I wanted to reach the next level of wellness. 

The New You Challenge, Crossfit Vantage, and Coach Kathleen Haggerty gave me a new understanding about fitness and nutrition that not only made a positive impact on my life, but also my spouse and my mother. My spouse was supportive of the diet, so much so, he decided to continue the diet by joining his own Whole Life Challenge in September. It has become a lifestyle for each of us. While we allow ourselves a “cheat” meal now and then, we know how to easily get back on track. I have also been able to help motivate and educate my mother who has diabetes and a heart condition with what I have learned from the challenge.   She too can now enjoy a healthier lifestyle. Her fitness and diet is critical in keeping her alive and well. The best gift I can give her is inspiration to attain her own fitness goals and share the knowledge I have learned from the challenge.

Since the end of the challenge I have been able to stick to the nutrition. There are so many helpful sites online with flavorful paleo recipes. I have no trouble finding meals to prep that my spouse and I enjoy. I am just a few years shy of 40 now and have NEVER felt so good, and it shows! I consistently participate in crossfit in addition to other activities each week. In addition to the improvements in my physique, my strength and stamina have increased, I lost a few inches, my digestion has improved, and I suffer fewer headaches. 

I would recommend participating in a New You Challenge to anyone! The comradery of the group and being accountable to them is what helped me stick it out and be successful. No matter where you are in your fitness journey there is something positive you can take away from it, maybe even a new friend or two!

Christine B.