Meet Mandy, Rail Stop Fitness’ Sept 2024 Athlete Spotlight! Mandy is a Rail Stop plank-holder member of over 7 years! She started CrossFit after realizing she couldn’t keep up with her 2-year-old. At 40, she tried a few workouts friends recommended but didn’t find them engaging. After seeing CrossFit signs and wanting a change, she gave it a try. Before starting, Mandy’s life had shifted from being an active kid to 20 years of desk work, leaving her overweight, tired, and lacking flexibility. “I could barely do anything that I would have considered ‘easy’ as a teenager,” adding that she was also unhappy with how she looked and felt.
Since starting, Mandy’s biggest achievement has been gaining confidence. When she tells people she does CrossFit, they often think it’s extreme, but she no longer follows up with disclaimers. “This past year, I decided to really put the effort in and get better at CrossFit. Two weeks ago, I told someone I do CrossFit. (Period.)” Her favorite lift is the snatch, despite it being technical. “When it goes right, it feels sooo good,” she says. But deadlifts and jump rope are her absolute favorites—”Can’t we just do deadlifts and jump rope every day!?!?” she jokes.
The community at Rail Stop Fitness is what keeps Mandy going. “My Rail Stop friends are the best. This is where people truly cheer you on. We all push each other, laugh, complain, and show up together.” The supportive atmosphere is what makes every class special, as everyone helps each other succeed.
When it comes to staying motivated, Mandy gives credit to several gym buddies. “The 4:15 a.m. class is the best! Susie has been here for years and kept me going when I was barely coming. Coach Mel never gives up on me and pushes me. Donovan’s voice is in my head when I’m lifting—he adds the weight I ‘forgot’ to put on the bar. And Missy’s effort and changes are proof that I can do it if I put in the work.”
Mandy’s advice to anyone considering joining? “Do it. You’ll love the people and community. Everyone’s working on being a better version of themselves. Plus, the 4:15 a.m. class is the best time to come!” Thank you Mandy for all you do for the gym and being our Spotlight Athlete!