Name: Shannon Free

Started CrossFit: October 2014

Favorite WOD: Any EMOM with barbell or kettlebell work, a good chipper, team WODS

Least Favorite WOD: Anything involving pull-ups or AMRAP 

Favorite Lift: Power cleans

Least Favorite Lift: Deadlifts. Always deadlifts.

Story: I was initially hesitant to try CrossFit because I was intimidated by its intensity. I began toying with the idea of trying out some classes my junior year of college but didn’t gain the courage until October of my senior year. Any efforts on my own to maintain my fitness and rehabilitate a knee injury from high school ended in me being unable to keep myself accountable, and I always ended up disappointed. To combat these feelings, I took to eating poor quality food in large quantities and lost sight of any goals I may have had. The game changed in October, however, when I tried my first class and became instantly hooked. I loved the team environment and how accepting everyone was of the new girl. It took a few months, but I rooted myself into that first community and gained not only muscle mass but self-confidence and better eating habits as well. Moving to Texas was terrifying, but finding a new box to call home was first on my list of things to do. Mission was the first box I visited, and Coach Meagan gave my family and I a tour of the gym. I liked what I saw and loved it even more when I came to my first class. I started out with the 5:30am class, then moved to the 6:30pm (Best:30) class after a few months. CrossFit is continuing to teach me to see my body as a machine that is capable of much when I give it the respect and care it deserves. I no longer view my body as something I have to fight against but something with which I can work. I’ve found a home at Mission, and I couldn’t be more thankful for this beautiful, strong, courageous community. Thank you for making Texas feel like home and for always pushing me to be better.