When Julie joined Dual Cities CrossFit in May 2023, she wasn’t looking for a new hobby or a way to pass the time in retirement. She was looking for strength — real, practical, life-changing strength.
Her husband had recently been diagnosed with brain cancer, and Julie knew the road ahead would demand more of her — physically, mentally, and emotionally — than ever before.
“It had been years since I had a regular exercise program,” she shared. “I felt weak, insecure about my weight, and more like I was in my 70s than my 60s. My stress level was the highest it had ever been, and I questioned my ability to take care of him… and myself.”
She’d tried fitness programs before. In another state, she joined a women’s boot camp, but the workouts were too advanced, and the coaching wasn’t beginner-friendly. “I left feeling frustrated most of the time,” she said.
From day one at Dual Cities, Julie knew something was different.
“I was overwhelmed — in a good way — by how welcoming and nonjudgmental the coaches were. They met me at my level without making me feel inferior, and the community shared their own starting points with me. It was encouraging to see I wasn’t alone.”
The change didn’t happen overnight. Over the first six months, Julie noticed a shift in her mindset.
“At first, my only goal was to be strong enough to take care of my husband,” she said. “But when we were asked to set New Year’s goals, I realized something had changed. My goals were about me — the ways I wanted to challenge myself — not just about caring for him.”
She’s proud of what she’s achieved, both in and out of the gym. Her confidence has grown, her stress is more manageable, and she’s stepped far outside her comfort zone. She’s also gained the independence to maintain her home, yard, and life — things she once relied on her husband to do.
“I’ve learned to celebrate all my victories,” Julie said. “Whether it’s cutting the grass or completing a workout, I take the time to acknowledge that two years ago I wouldn’t have even tried.”
Julie’s advice for anyone feeling the way she did before joining?
“You’re never too old to try something new. Everyone has a beginning, and it’s OK to work within your boundaries. The coaches will meet you where you are and help you grow — and over time, those boundaries will expand.”
She credits the Dual Cities community with making all the difference.
“It’s a very special place. The support and friendships extend beyond the gym. The coaches truly care and work hard to give each of us the best chance to meet our goals.”
Julie’s story is a reminder that sometimes the greatest transformation isn’t just about lifting more weight — it’s about lifting yourself into a stronger, more confident version of you.