Author: cara jones

That’s a tough one. I still feel like I’m often trying to figure out who I am! Its really only been the last 3-4 years that I truly have settled into my own skin and self and it’s been an amazing transition in my life. 

I feel like the person I am today is two-fold, both my past and my present. 

In the present, my two children play a significant role in who I am today. Bailey (10), and Adalyn (7) hands down make me a better person. Becoming a mom has been a true life lesson of being selfless. The decisions I make and how I act all stem back to, “does this make me a better person for them”. 

In the past, I did gymnastics from the age of 6 through the end of high school. It was my life and a true passion all my young life. 2-3 hour practices, 5-6 days/week, was just “my normal” for so many years and it was always where I wanted to be, “in the gym”. I am a very determined and disciplined type of person in many aspects of my life (not all…. I’m human!), and I feel gymnastics and my coaches have definitely been the backbone in making me this way. I feel it has lead me in being an encouraging and motivating friend as well as leading me to my profession in Physical Therapy. I love seeing others succeed and leading them there gives me purpose and fulfillment. 

Describe your experience at CFNC.

My experience has been nothing but one of support and motivation. The coaching is hands-on, professional, and genuine. My FitFam is not replaceable as they are one of a kind. Being surrounded by like-minded people who support you and cheer you on, not just in the big moments, but in the M-F, EVERYDAY grind is where the FitFam value is! I love belonging to something bigger than myself. One that makes me not only want to be a better athlete, but to be a better and more humble person at the same time. 

What are your major life goals?

My major life goals overall are pretty simple….just to be a happy, accomplished, and a positive influence during my time here on Earth. Anytime I can make a wish, I have always wished for “love and safety always” as long as I can remember. As basic as it sounds, if you have love and you’re safe, all other things (goals) in life can be possible. 

Specifically, I want to be the best mom that my girls deserve, an accomplished Physical Therapist that will allow me to give back, and I want to have financial freedom so I can be able to travel and experience as much as possible. (Still figuring that one out!)

What are your 3 major CrossFit goals?

#1 I just want to be stronger! It’s my weakest link in CrossFit and I just want to be as strong as the other women around me! 

#2 Butterfly chest-to-bar 

#3 Stringing together multiple bar and ring muscle-ups

What has been your favorite CrossFit moment so far?

During my 1st CF Open, getting my first bar muscle-up in the last few seconds of 17.2 was a pretty awesome feeling of accomplishment! 

What has been your favorite CrossFit WOD and why? 

I honestly can’t keep up with what WOD is what!!!

BUT, recently, I really enjoyed 20.3.

Being able to compare my results between 18.4 and 20.3 was encouraging and motivating. I improved from 85 pts (not even finishing “Diane” in the 9 minute time cap) to finishing Diane in under 7 minutes and managing to deadlift 205lb 4x after failing my first lift! The fitfam support and coaching is what it’s all about! And my lesson…. if I can get stronger, I can get to the handstand walks!!! I have to be stronger to be able to compete in what I’m already good at! That’s why I love CrossFit! It keeps me humble! 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself continuing deny my age and working towards being the youngest, physically fit, and healthiest version of myself possible so I can be the best mom my girls deserve. 

I see myself being happy and content in life. 

I see myself trying my best to survive raising 2 teenagers!!! Ahhhh!!! 

Share a recipe for a favorite clean meal.

I’m a “no recipe, just throw it together” kind of cook. My healthy go to dinner usually always involve a bowl:

1. Quinoa or a organic whole grain brown or wild rice blend.
2. Layered with any roasted vegetable. (The options are endless)
3. Organic chicken sausage (lots of varieties to choose from) 
4. And topped with little bit ( moderation is key to keep it healthy!) of smoked Gouda or Asiago cheese (or your favorite cheese), and avocado (and don’t forget the Frank’s Red Hot Sauce !! )

What is your favorite cheat meal?

I love all pizza, the weirder the better. 

The Bradwell pizza from Park Pizza is one of my favorites !!!! 

What is the most challenging aspect of CrossFit.

Over coming the fear of failing and being patient in the process. If I’m struggling, it’s usually because I’m in my own head, fearing, not listening, and standing in my own way. 

What advice would you give to someone new to CrossFit?

Keep going and showing up. Consistency is more important than anything. If you keeping showing up and leaving all your efforts in the gym, you will get what you’re looking for! 

You’re gonna be sore, so just expect it, but don’t hurt yourself. It’s not worth it. Know your limits. 

If you keep going, you won’t hurt all the time!!!

Only compare yourself to yourself and celebrate every little accomplishment! 

“Success looks easy to those who weren’t there while it was being earned”.

What is your personal ‘walkout song’ or anthem?

My heart wants to scream “Hold On” by Wilson Phillips, but in The true essence of a “walkout song” I’d say “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey.