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“Besides my physical changes, my mental strength has drastically switched to a much more positive outlook. For the first time in my life, I don't tell myself, ‘You're too big for that.’”

Member At:

Farmgirlfit Spokane

Occupation:

Hair stylist/Miracle worker

Tell us about your fitness journey. How did you come to Farmgirlfit?

Google. How crazy is that? I had lost my dad the year before, I had some swelling in my brain, and was just unhappy where I was in my life. I have always been overweight. I remember being bigger than the other kids in kindergarten, and being shamed for what I was eating in my home life since I was 6. I remember never having friends growing up and in middle school, unfortunately I started a lot of self-harm. High school, I remember locking myself in my room for hours because no friends wanted to be a part of my life. I was just space. Not living, just existing.

I was the heaviest I had ever been (350 lbs) when I visited FGF. The most athletic I had ever been prior was being in pep band in high school (the flute... in case you were curious). I had signed up for a Free Trial visit and automatically decided there was NO WAY I was working out the first time. I walked in and was 100% positive I was going to be judged and told the gym wasn't the right fit for me. That's what had happened my entire life, I was used to being rejected.

Instead, I was greeted with the biggest smile and most enthusiasm I've ever seen someone have (it was Sav, btw). I started the next week and wondered what in the world I got myself into. I could barely row 200 meters, couldn't do one sit up, and let's forget about box jumps. Each coach took her time with me. Everyone made my workouts safe for my body, but I definitely worked harder than I ever have before. I took it day by day and slowly I could see changes in myself and performance. I'm a lot stronger than I think.

Now summarize, tell your Farmgirlfit story in 100 words or fewer:

100 words?! People can actually do that?!

I started at FGF with the activity level of a slug and a diet of fast food and packaged meals. I find myself choosing healthier options without second thought and having cravings for FGF. Besides my physical changes, my mental strength has drastically switched to a much more positive outlook. For the first time in my life, I don't tell myself, "You're too big for that.”

What has been your greatest fitness/performance accomplishment so far?

Smashing every single goal I've ever set for myself! The most recent was a 240# back squat goal. I actually had plans to postpone it because I believed I had set it too high...turns out I can squat 245#. So that's kind of cool. Thanks Liz!

What are your next health and fitness goals?

I actually haven't told many people this, but I really want to compete in a fitness competition. Crazy that's becoming a reality/possibility!

Words that inspire me?

Strive for progress, not perfection.

Favorite exercise at FGF is? Least favorite?

BEARSSSS!!!!! I. LIVE. FOR. BEARS. Least favorite are plate pushes, of course, but they make my booty look good so I'll continue doing them.

Favorite workout song?

Booty by J.Lo/Iggy - always working on the summer booty!

When the Grind is kicking my butt, I’m thinking…

I CAN do it. I think about how far I've come, how sweaty I am, and it's all mental.

My favorite thing about Farmgirlfit is:

Farmgirlfit is my favorite thing about Farmgirlfit. The ladies, the workouts, the atmosphere, the support, the LOVE we have for each other. If I see a FGF logo, I get excited and my heart starts racing. One thing that really stood out for me was our coaches. Every single one of them have gone above and beyond for me and my journey. Everyone will get extremely picky in my lifting form, and make sure that I'm pushing myself as hard as I can.

How has the rest of your life been influenced by Farmgirlfit?

I smile more, am less judgmental, and have a more positive mindset. I'm constantly thinking more positively...which has never happened.

When you're not pumping iron at FGF, what does the rest of your life look like?

I'm usually singing songs to my cats at home...I'm not joking. They enjoy it as much as I do: Michael Jackson, Beyonce, but their favorite is Chris Young.

Who/what inspires you to be fit?

Mama J! The lady has saved my life. She's pulled me out of dark places, gave me reality checks when I needed them, recipes, hope, strength, inspiration. She's been there for me when I really needed someone. She's been helping me find balance between life and my fitness goals. She's my biggest inspiration and my biggest supporter. Plus, have you seen her abs?!

My happy place is:

Does Froyo count?

You might not know this about me:

Spokane actually stresses me out. I'm from a town with less than 1,700 people. Spokane is noisy when I'm trying to sleep.

Guilty pleasure:

Coconut caramel chocolate from Trader Joe's. Heaven sent.

I’m proud…

Of my little brother. He has grown to the most amazing 18 year old I've ever met. He picks me up when I need him to, makes me laugh, and is also a good punching bag.

Team I’m always rooting for:

G-O-N-Z-A-G-A

My trademark dance move:

You'll have to see it. Too good for words.

My favorite Pokemon and why:

Jigglypuff...reminds me of marshmallows.

My favorite post workout meal:

Good ol' protein shake! I mix it thinner than normal so it's not so heavy in my tummy.

My healthy indulgence:

Dried baby bananas.

Any advice for new members or your fellow farmgirls?

You have to start somewhere. No one has ever been able to run a 5 minute mile right off the bat. I can't tell you how many times I've been told "I could never do what you're doing". You CAN do it. You're stronger than you think. Do it for you and your health. Put yourself first and your success will follow!

I have to say thank you to everyone that has been there for me this past year. For laughs, tears, sweat, talking me out of self-destruction. I wouldn't be where I am without my support system.