When Allison walked through the doors of CrossFit Alabaster for her very first class one year ago, she felt a mix of nerves and excitement. Like so many people starting something new, she was scared of the unknown but also hopeful about what this journey could bring.
“I was scared and excited to start my CrossFit journey,” she recalls. Looking back now, those nerves were the first step toward one of the most transformative years of her life.
Learning What She’s Capable Of
In just 12 months, Allison has discovered a strength she didn’t realize she had. “I have learned that I am stronger than what I initially believed,” she says. That strength hasn’t only been about lifting weights—it’s about showing up, pushing past limits, and proving to herself that she can do hard things.
When she first started, simple movements felt intimidating. Box jumps and jump rope? Out of the question. But now, they’re part of her regular workouts. Those milestones may seem small to some, but for Allison, they’ve been huge markers of growth and confidence.
Confidence Outside the Comfort Zone
“My confidence has grown by literally showing up and being out of my comfort zone,” Allison explains. Each time she walked through the gym doors, she was building more than muscle—she was building belief in herself.
The courage to step into a workout that once felt intimidating has spilled over into other areas of her life. She’s consistent not only with her fitness, but also with meal prepping, walking regularly, and prioritizing her health.
Beyond the Barbell
What surprised Allison most wasn’t just her physical progress, but the way her life outside the gym has improved. She’s sleeping better, has more energy, and—maybe most importantly—she’s gained an incredible circle of friends.
The CrossFit Alabaster community has been a major part of her journey. “I have been impacted by CFA outside of the gym by sleeping better and having great friends,” she says. Those connections have provided encouragement, accountability, and a sense of belonging that goes far beyond a workout.
A Message to Day 1 Allison
If Allison could go back and talk to herself on that very first day, her message is simple but powerful:
“If I could go back and talk to ‘Allison from day 1,’ I would tell her that she can do it and focus on herself.”
It’s advice that many of us could take to heart.
One Year Down—So Much More Ahead
In just one year, Allison has proven to herself that she’s stronger, more capable, and more resilient than she ever thought. And her journey is just beginning.
Her story is a reminder to anyone sitting on the fence about starting—whether you feel nervous, unsure, or even scared—you don’t have to have it all figured out. You just need to take the first step.
At CrossFit Alabaster, we’re here to support you every step of the way, just like we’ve supported Allison.
1 Year Later: What Allison Has Found at CrossFit Alabaster
