Prototype of the Month: Lily Johnson

Lily Johnson

Lily Johnson

1.) Share your CrossFit Prototype experience and fitness journey

I was never someone who liked to exercise. I wasn’t good at it, didn’t know what I was doing, and didn’t feel comfortable trying things on my own at the gym. I was curious about CrossFit Prototype since I drove past it on my way to work, but I was nervous after hearing intimidating stories about CrossFit. Andrea Lam invited me to a bring-a-buddy class so I could try it out and see for myself. I was pleasantly surprised at how friendly and welcoming everyone was, but my first few sessions still left me exhausted and sore for days. I couldn’t imagine how other people could do these crazy workouts multiple times a week…voluntarily!
For the first few months, I forced myself to commit to at least two classes a week. Although I didn’t have much experience with strength training and many movements were new to me, I always felt comfortable asking for help. The CFP coaches were patient with all my questions and made sure I was doing movements with appropriate form and scaling as needed. With past gym experiences, it was easy to give up and quit. Here, even if I was the last person to finish a workout, I had a whole class of people cheering me on as I struggled through one last round of burpees or wall ball shots. Even if I hated the workouts while I was doing them, I was driven to fight through and finish.
Somewhere along the line, despite my determination not to “drink the Kool-Aid,” I found myself going to class more often and actually enjoying exercise. Now I look forward to the gym instead of looking for excuses not to go. CFP helped to transform me from a totally sedentary person into someone who is excited for the workout of the day. I’m stronger and in better shape than I’ve ever been, and I’ve just gotten started!


2.) What is your favorite part about being at CFP?

My favorite thing about CFP is the community. I’ve been able to grow so much over the past 15 months because of all the support from the coaches and other members. The coaches encourage me to challenge myself, but without pressuring me to go further than I feel ready for. CFP members demonstrate our core values of family, integrity, helping others, excellence, fun, and growth on a daily basis.
The whole CFP family is a huge source of motivation, and I am surrounded by role models in strength, determination, and positivity.

3.) What are your hobbies and activities ?

When I’m not doing CrossFit, I spend time on the other side of the gym taking Muay Thai and self defense classes, and recently have tried Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as well. I’ve always wanted to try martial arts and am having an awesome time with it, so I strongly recommend the Integrated Martial Arts programs! Outside the gym, I enjoy going on adventures with my husband Matt, trying out new recipes, reading, watching movies, and playing video games.

4.) How has CFP helped you outside the gym (in sports, etc.)?

CFP has been a huge help in achieving better work-life balance. It’s helped me to adjust my priorities and make sure I build in time for fitness and health. Working out at CFP has also helped me to think of my weaknesses as opportunities for improvement, both inside and out of the gym. A big project or tough exam is just another chipper I can get through, one step at a time. Plus, a WOD or Muay Thai session is great stress relief!

5.) What are your continuing fitness goals to this point?

I WILL earn my CFP Virtuosity Program orange band! That’s been my big goal for the past few months and can’t wait to check the last few things off of my list. I’m also working towards my first unassisted pull-ups. Overall, I want to keep lifting heavier, improving my cardio, and making progress every day.

6.) Favorite Quote

“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” — Pooh’s Grand Adventure
“No power in the ‘verse can stop me” — Firefly