I consider myself the typical average 30 something year old mom with 3 kids. The weight came and went with the pregnancies only keeping about 5 lbs per pregnancy but at 35 yrs old that last 10-15 lbs was near impossible to get off. I had always been active but even while swimming in college never could achieve that lean fit body. Dieting also came and went, nothing ever seemed to stick and certainly never coupled with a program where results were very noticeable in a short amount of time. I was very frustrated because I knew my body had potential but if 4 hrs of swimming a day didn’t do it what would? and in a shorter amount of time? because my plate is always brimming over and I dont have 4 hrs a day!

I was actually drawn to CrossFit because they had Kettlebells in the gym and I was Kettlebelling at home after my 3rd baby. I had lost some initial weight but had seriously plateaued and was not satisfied. I was getting stronger and wanted more! The constantly varying workouts combining weights, gymnastics, and aerobic activity was awesome for my “I’m bored” mentality and the friendly competitive aspect fed that side of my personality as well. Sure I was out of college, have a family, didn’t have time for an organized sport, but I still enjoyed competition – especially against hubby!

6 weeks before the end of the year of 2009 our gym had a “little black dress” 6 week challenge which included and introduced me to the Zone diet. It was definitely what made that subtle but HUGE difference for me in the results I was really really looking for. I was within 5-10 lbs of my goals but the numbers weren’t going down on the scale. My measurements were improving, clothes were fitting better so I just needed that little secret edge. Since Zoning and Crossfitting together I feel closer and closer to my ideal health inside and out. I’m not body builder cut nor am I super skinny unhealthy. I’m stronger, leaner, more agile, flexible, more adept in many physical areas, I have more energy, I’m not bloated, and my mind is sharp! I can lift the full cooler into the truck by myself without throwing my back out, i can work in the yard without getting tired after an hour, and can get numerous projects done without relying on outside help or being totally wiped out for the day. I feel I am in better shape and health than I was even in High School and College and still have room to improve.

The community feeling I get at Wasatch CrossFit is so positive and supportive. Both my kids and I look forward to coming almost everyday. So much so I have transitioned my career such that I can be there more and bring that feeling to other kids and their families by teaching the kids classes. Crossfit and zoning has become a positive and enjoyable lifestyle change that has brought outside results and inner happiness.

Banu Firth