When I was in my 20s, I worked on a pitch to produce a documentary based on the book “Growing Old is Not for Sissies.” The book is a testament to the joy of physical activity filled with inspiring and beautiful photographs of senior athletes. At 23 I thought, “This is how I want to age.” The portraits of those athletes stay with me until today.

I’ve done just about every type of class and program over the past 30 years; from Buns of Steel and dance aerobics to spinning, Zumba, P90X, Barre, and HIIT. I’ve been into distance running and Triathlons. So, I know what I like. I love yoga and do it weekly but I realize how important it is to build muscle as you age. Lifting weights is something I’ve tried to incorporate into my life over the years with zero success.

A good friend of mine who is ten years younger, and an accomplished bodybuilder has been urging me to try a CrossFit KOP class. I said “CrossFit, are you insane? I will 1000% HATE it. I despise burpees.” She extolled the virtues of the specifically designed over 50 Master’s Class, Coach Aimee who owns the gym, and the amazing community of people at this specific CrossFit gym.

Master’s Class? I would not be working out with people my daughter’s age? Well, that made a lot of sense to me and I’m always up for trying something new, so I gave it a try.

I arrived and the first day was a strength training class. It’s part of the Master’s program to help build muscle for longevity. I loved it! The next day I went for a more typical class. It was about 100 degrees. We started with a warmup and then got on rowers. I went ALL OUT for several minutes, got up and felt like I might pass out. I sat out for several minutes then got back to it at a more moderate pace. Everyone was so supportive and encouraged me to come back. So, I did. That was June and I’ve been going 3 times a week.

I’m stronger, a little leaner and I’m part of an amazing community. The “Masters” encourage me and check up on me if I miss class. They are my role models. They’re living portraits of Growing Old is Not For Sissies! #goals

👊 Regina