Finding the right fit at CrossFit

Jami Knutson has a message for those looking to get into a supportive and motivating workout routine: Don’t be scared of CrossFit.

Knutson gave CrossFit 641 at the Marshalltown YMCA-YWCA a try two years ago and loves it.

“I was looking for something different,” she said. “It’s helped me stay motivated. I love to come back. I’ve lost weight and firmed things up.”

CrossFit is a strength and conditioning program that utilizes constantly varied, functional movements executed at a high intensity.

While many might see the intense workouts of CrossFit and get scared away, Knutson realized quickly that workouts can be modified to ease that fear.
At the age of 61, she admits she can’t do the whole scope of the CrossFit workouts.

“There’s always an alternative to the actual workout and the coaches are awesome,” she said.

CrossFit Coach Tabatha Goodrich said she appreciates how dedicated and motivated Knutson is.
“She’s very inspirational to myself and the others,” Goodrich said.

Goodrich and the other coaches are able to scale the workouts to different levels of ability for the CrossFit athletes.
“We are able to modify the workout to your ability,” Goodrich said.

The CrossFit 641 group at the Marshalltown Y is like a family and they are supportive of each other.
“It’s fun to be around these younger kids,” Knutson said. “They are so encouraging.”

Knutson has no plans to slow down in her 60s.
“I don’t feel my age, that’s for sure,” she said.