I used to weigh around 200 pounds. Although that was five years ago, it still hurts to look back and see myself when I was obese. I was embarrassed of how I looked and I was in a bad place in life. I hid in the house and over ate to make up for my low self-esteem and to deal with daily stresses. I had high cholesterol and was often sick. I decided one day to take control of my life and change it one step at a time. At first it was difficult because I was unsure what to eat and what the ideal exercises were. I was scared of the gym and I was embarrassed to walk/run outside because I had been laughed at and called names by some people driving down the road. However, I continued trying to make the right food choices and doing research online and reading books about nutrition. I decided to keep exercising regardless of what other people thought or said to me. Eventually, I began to lose weight. I began to have more energy. My walking turned into running. Running turned into 5k races, then 10ks and eventually marathons. I taught bootcamp classes and lifted weights. Without even realizing it, I had become a completely different person. I was happy and I felt great. I had an outlet for my stress. Most importantly, I learned that it wasn’t about losing weight and looking good. On my fitness journey, I learned what it means to take care of myself starting on the inside then on the out. Now, I feel good physically and mentally. Eating well and taking care of myself helps me think clearly, my body to function properly, it has lowered my cholesterol, I am rarely sick, and I have endless energy. Since my struggle, I have followed my dream to provide a safe place for people of all fitness levels to go and get the tools that they need to change their lives. Nine months ago I opened my own CrossFit gym, CrossFit Wazimu. Now, I am inspired everyday by the people I train. I am glad that I decided to change my life and I love that I have the opportunity to help other people change theirs too. It may not be easy but it’s worth it!

Autymn has lived in Martinsville for 5 years.  She has been married to Brad for 5 years and they have 2 kids – Braydon, age 8 and Elyas, age 4.  As Autymn mentioned, she is the owner/trainer at CrossFit Wazimu here in Martinsville.

If you would like more information on the gym, please visit the website http://www.crossfitwazimu.net/.   Thank you Autymn for your open, honest story!

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