I’ve had a couple people ask me about how I started on paleo. And a few have asked me about how I started CrossFit. So I’m combining them into one! My story isn’t unique. It’s pretty similar to most people’s out there so I hope it’s not too boring. It most likely will be though.
Here’s my background. I didn’t really play sports growing up. I swam for 9 years of my life on a summer league and just a little in high school. I was never extremely good at it, but I lived at my pool in the summers so it was just what you did. I never tried any other sports because I was too scared. I was too scared to try volleyball because I would have to wear spandex shorts. I was too scared to try lacrosse because I didn’t think I was cool enough to fit in with those girls. And I didn’t run track (well, for a month I did) because I sucked at running. And hated it. So sports didn’t really suit me. So I kept to myself, sang in choir, and worked out on my own…not knowing what the hell I was doing.
I had a couple personal trainers growing up that helped me get a little bit more into being in the gym and comfortable with lifting weights. I had boyfriends who were always into fitness so it made me want to try it and look cool. Obviously, that didn’t help me. But it made me never really feel intimidated with lifting weights around dudes. Lifting weights always gave me some sort of empowerment feeling.
So when I was in college, I worked at the student rec center where I began to work out more and more. And, of course, this was where I met my college boyfriend. I actually started talking to him because he would come into the gym, do a 20 minute workout, be drenched in sweat, then leave. I didn’t get how he could get in such a good workout in such a short amount of time. Long story short, we started dating, I weighed in at about 150lbs and was not in shape AT ALL. So, to try to keep my boyfriend around, I started doing CrossFit on my own in a small gym so I could do workouts with him.
I began searching the archives of crossfit.com, watching all the videos, figuring out how to clean and snatch, and trying all these things out by myself in the student rec center and the small private gym I went to. I taught myself the kipping pull up on the pull up bar in the park and bought my own jump rope to practice double unders 20 minutes a day.
While just doing CrossFit, I lost about 15 pounds. The more I read through crossfit.com, the more I began to understand how important eating healthy was. So I put on my big girl pants and started asking questions. My boyfriend at the time ate Zone, so I cleaned up my diet a bit, started eating zone portions and lost almost another 15 pounds. That means I got down to almost 120 lbs. I’m 5’7. That was the smallest I had been since I was in junior high.
So after about 6-8 months of doing CrossFit on my own, I decided to join my first CrossFit gym, CrossFit Evolve. They started teaching me how to actually lift correctly and dealt with my excessive tape use from ripping my hands every day. After only about 2 months there, I moved and started working out at a bunch of different CrossFit gyms in Denver.
This was when I decided to go paleo. All the way. I hated the idea of it, thought it was stupid, and refused to give in, but my then boyfriend and I decided we would try it together. The CrossFit gyms we went to both promoted the diet so we thought it was worth a shot if it would make us better at CrossFit. So I started cooking a ton more, looking at paleo recipe blogs, and reading The Paleo Solution and the Whole30 a ton. I fell in love with websites like Balanced Bites, Mark’s Daily Apple, Everyday Paleo, Health-Bent, Elana’s Pantry, and a ton of smaller ones. And I finally began to cook for myself for the first time in my life. And loved it. I loved trying new things and seeing that other people, who didn’t even eat paleo, liked those meals. So I started making my own meals and before I knew it, I was writing the nutrition blog for CrossFit Flex Gym and then finally started writing my own (mostly so I could cuss more and write whatever I wanted).
Now, it wasn’t until I started working out at CrossFit Broadway that my body really changed. Once I began working out with dudes that made me lift heavy and fast, I put back on almost 30 lbs. That means I went from 120 lbs to 150 lbs in probably 6 months actually eating cleaner and working out harder. Funny world we live in, just hilarious. I do have some hormone issues that I haven’t been able to figure out, but mostly I think I put on weight because my body was trying to figure out how to deal with the stress being put upon it with lifting so much more weight.
So here is the summmary. I’ve been eating paleo for over a year now and CrossFitting for over 2 years. I went from 150lbs of NO muscle to 120lbs of some muscle and NO fat to 150lbs of lots more muscle and some fat. I’m not shredded like a lot of the CrossFit women out there and I truly wish I was smaller. BUT I would never in a million years lift less to lean down. Never. I have worked very hard for 2 years to become stronger and fitter and to think about lifting less than my body is able, is just stupid to me. CrossFit has given me the strength to do things I didn’t know were possible so why would I deny those things and make myself weaker just for asthetic appeal?
I still play around with my diet monthly. I’ll cut out nuts, I’ll cut out fruit, I’ll try new vegetables, eating less protein, eating more protein. It’s a never ending process trying to figure out what my body likes and dislikes. And it’s ever changing. What my body liked a year ago when I started paleo is completely different than what it likes now. So it’s annoying. And listening to your body it’s a tough process.
CrossFit and paleo pretty much run my life. It’s often a love-hate relationship. I hate that I can’t eat a pound of almond butter in one sitting because I’ll crap myself all week. But I love that I can feel 10x better eating almond butter than I did when I ate grains. I hate that my ass and legs are bigger than they ever have been, but I love that they can lift more than they ever did before.
So that’s my story. It’s not that interesting, but hopefully it helps you with figuring out how you want to lead your life of healthy eating and healthy living. Do what makes you happy. Whatever that is, just do it. You only live once. And if you have any questions, feel free to ask. I’m sure I left out a ton of stuff.
172 thoughts on “How CrossFit & Paleo Took Over My Life”
I would give you all the chocolate in the world for you your abs! Its my #1 problem area and nothing I do seems to change it
Hey Juli, I saw you at the Legends Comp this weeknd but I didn’t want to seem all crazy like, OMG are you Juli, I love your blog, hee hee. You seemed busy anyway. Me and 3 other girls drove up from good ol WYO to compete. It was my first individual competition. It was fun until my hands decided to completely rip open and that was fun to try and do chest to bar pullups with my fingers. UGH. Good experience though and I know my weaknesses. I saw your friend Sergio competing as well, he did awesome. Anyway, have a radical day 🙂
I like your story (and your abs). Crossfit girls definitely have the best stories (and abs) and outlooks on body and food and weight. It’s important for girls/women to hear stories like yours! I wove a tangled web of shitty diets and inconsistent work out routines and wanting to look a certain way for years. And then I met Crossfit. Personally, I definitely would rather feel confident that I could beat the shit out of someone than look the way I was trying to before. Hearing/reading similar female Crossfit stories inspire me, even if it’s a similar story as my own. Get it girl!
Yes! I actually have more to say but it’s all super cheesy, so I’ll stick to YES!
Thanks for sharing Juli! No worries, all us CF women have giant thighs and giant asses – it goes with the territory.
Ya look great! I started crossfit two months ago and i can see my thighs growing! Scary!!
Juli, thank you for being human and being real! I love that you lay it out as you see it. I started CF a year ago and dove head 1st into Paleo. I love it! I’m stilling trying to wrap my head around having muscle. I like it, I like feeling strong, but I’m afraid of people looking at me like I’m a freak for having muscle. You know….its the society thing of what women SHOULD look like. People at my gym are so supportive so that’s what I hold onto and keep moving forward to my goals like my 1st CF competition in Aug. I love my CF family! Once again, a timely post! You are amazing!! If you are ever in Billings, MT please stop by Alternative Athletics/Crossfit!
Great story Juli..and what is crazier..the pic of you at your skinniest…the dude screamin’ at ya..if I am not mistaken is one of my coaches, Sam! 🙂 He’s one of the reason why I have pushed myself harder than I ever thought possible and why I don’t check the WODs and bug out on the tough days. That which does not kill you and all that….
I appreciate reading how Crossfit and Paleo have changed you into the person you are today. Success stories of others always motivate me to try harder.
As in Sam Lewis?
Hey Juli,
Really great post! I too am not at my lowest and thinnest now, but I’m healthier and stronger than ever before since joining crossfit. It’s been a HUGE mental adjustment to be “ok” with a fuller muscular build — especially since I came from a ballet/dance background. Thanks so much again for writing about those things that I think many of us crossfit women struggle with and think about.
Happy Monday!
Juli, this is refreshingly honest and inspirational. Crossfit/paleo is the magic bullet if you work the plan, but te plan looks different for all of us. Honestly, your current picture is my favorite- you look extremely strong and healthy!
Love your blog. Do you have any recommendations on wtf to do to keep hand rips at bay? I’ve been doing this to my self wayyyy to much lately. Thanks for inspiring me and letting me know a big ass and thighs are ok :p
Dani,
Get a corn/callus shaver from a beauty shop. It has a plastic handle and a really sharp blade that can be replaced — it kind of works like a cheese cutter. Shave down your calluses on your hands so that they are even with the rest of the palm. It really reduces rips.
If you do rip, make some tape gloves for your hands. Just google crossfit and tape gloves and you will find a how to video on how to make them.
Also, don’t be afraid to drop off the pull up bar when you start getting tired. I find that the times that I rip are when I force too many pullups and my grip gives, allowing for more rotation and rips.
Good luck!
I honestly never did anything for my calluses so I’m not the best person to ask. I just taped them up, got better and pull ups after a looong time, and didn’t rip as much. It’s all about learning to not grip the bar quite as much so you’re not getting as much torque on your hands while you kip
Thanks Javier and Juli for the tips. I just finally got off the bands for my pu’s and I’ve been ripping the whole time. ACK!
Hand maintenance with a pomous stone is very helpful too. Every time you shower, rub your hands with it. It makes all the difference.
Love this! I was the biggest hater of CF and paleo and then I started them both about a year and a half ago, and I just got my L1 cert and most days, I don’t miss any of the crap I used to eat. It still gets old having to explain to people why I eat the way I do, so maybe I’ll just direct them to this post 🙂
Thanks for your story – I can relate so well! I’d love to hear more about your hormone issues – I have been investigating and struggling with my own over the last 2 years. And it’s really only your opinion that matters, but I agree with all the other comments: you look great!!
Karen, email me and we can chat more about it!
I would love to see more on the hormone issues as well….I am currently struggling. Are you brave enought to do a post on that???
I’d also love if you’re able to post about hormonal issues as I have definite problems going on.
I’d love to hear about the hormone issues as well. I have PCOS so it’s particularly interesting to me. Thanks!
Hey dude! It would be cool if you could do a post (or just post in a comment!?) about things you think are most important for beginners and how to get to competition level fitness. I love the shit out of CrossFit. I’m still pretty new to it, but I would honestly LOVE to be good enough to compete some day soon, but I don’t really know how to get there. My box isn’t super hardcore, it’s mostly families just trying to get in shape or whatever, no competitors or anything. What do you think are the most important tools to get there?
I agree w/ Haley. I am new to crossfit and would like a few tips on getting started. Awesome post too! You’re an inspiration 🙂
If you can get into a CF gym, I definitely recommend that first. Having a coach to actually tell you what to do and what not to do is super helpful. We don’t always know what our own bodies are doing. Your coach will guide and help you. Just don’t be scared to try something new, it’s always fun conquering something you didn’t think you could do before!
Start out by seriously competing, just in smaller events. That opens up your eyes to what you need to work on and how you need to get there. I was smaller and thinner, putting on weight helped me get better. I also recommend trying to do more strength training along with met cons. When I started with crossfit, I did 3 days of lifting and 6 days of met cons. So I would do strenght monday, wedensday, and friday along with my regular workouts. It’s just putting yourself out there, trying new things, and maybe even getting to a more competitive gym at some point. That definitely has helped me out some!
I just want to fly to Colorado from and hug you!
I love that you are honest and open and happy with who you are – thighs and all! I’m slowly getting there, started my Paleo lifestyle cold turkey with the Whole30 and have now started to Zone. As much as I still freak out on the scales, I’m learning to love my muscles and know that like you, I feel awesome not eating grains and all those other nasty inflammatory foods.. And I have to say, my first taste of almond butter was a life changing experience!
Thanks for being so inspirational!!!
The question I wanted to ask if its not too much trouble, when you are getting close to competing and start Zoning, how many blocks do you have?
P.S I’m on deployment (from Australia), will keep an eye out for Sergio!
I have done 9-11 in the past, but now try to do 11-13 blocks 🙂 and thank you Sarah, please watch him for me. I already cried today thinking about his deploying.
I love the honesty in this post! I’m impressed with the amount of determination you have, it takes a LOT to teach yourself double unders and kipping pull ups! I honestly can’t imagine… I’m glad you have this blog. You post recipes that people like me can realistically re-create! I’m not awesome at cooking, but no one can tell.
Also, you should make more cooking videos!
Than you so much for sharing. I’m also 5’7″ and while Ive never gotten down to 120 at my thinnest I was 130. Then I had kids and started lifting heavier. Now that I crossfire I cant get below 140 and its making me crazy. My body is opposite of yours. My legs are super toned and defined but my stomach is nasty. Just Huck. I would pay a lot of money to have your abs. You are such an inspiration.
If I weren’t allergic to nuts (which makes paleo challenging) Id be eating a jar of almond butter in a sitting.
Thanks for sharing! I met you at Regionals last month I think you look fabulous, strong and healthy. I think a lot of females start CrossFit with the goal of leaning and losing and somewhere along the way the goal shifts. That empowerment that comes from lifting heavy shit and moving a lot faster than ever before takes hold and takes CrossFit to a whole new level in our lives. It’s pretty cool to witness through coaching and just being around the CrossFit community. I too have CrossFit thighs and now have these mutant traps that used to kind of make me a little self conscious, but I’m now pretty proud of the fruits of my labor. I mean, I’ve literally worked my ass off to get where I am. Anywho, I hope to run into you at the Games and look forward to reading your quirky posts!
That damn picture again. I don’t know how to get rid of it!
i really loved this post! I am 90/10 paleo most of the time (i have a weakness for air popped corn, i’ll admit, so that and greek yogurt make up my 10-fail) , but i dont do crossfit, i am just a runner. I love your honesty. Everyone has a different story. Paleo or my version of it plus stepping up my running has enabled me to lose 25+ lbs. I love paleo and i have a hard time understanding why people diss on it. Eating bread is so disgusting to me now.
Thank you for sharing!
Love this post! Thanks for being so open and sharing your story.
I’ve dealt with some of the same body-issues that you have– the wanting to be smaller, but really NOT wanting to lift less to get smaller. The wishing my legs and but were thinner, but being so proud of what they can do.
I started Crossfit about two years ago too, and haven’t lost a single pound. In fact, I’ve gained 5. But I went from 150 pounds and 27% body fat to 155 lbs and 18% body fat…I’m pretty happy the the lean part of me weighs as much as whole ‘nother person (126lbs). I wouldn’t give up that strength for the world!
I also want to thank you for sharing. I love your blog and recipes. I have become 80%- 90% Paleo in the last 6 months and I am feeling so much better physically, mentally and emotionally. I am so grateful to hear of your journey because I also am trying out new things as I progress and trying to figure out what works best for my body. It’s good to read someone as experienced and devoted as you are also continually learning what works best for your body. You are encouraging me to continue with the process and not to get consumed with what’s on the scale. Seriously, you look amazing!!
I’m going to second the motion for more cooking videos! Also I love tatoos, esp ones with a story or meaning… so suggestion for a future rando rant the tatoo on your ribs is awesome and I’d like to here the story if you haven’t already told it somewhere!
Hi Juli! Love the post I just started CF 3 months ago and have been eating Paleo for two weeks and I’m loving it. I’m lucky that I have people around me that eat gluten and dairy free already and so they totally get what I’m doing. I’m loving how my body feels and how great my body is starting to look. I can see my abs coming in under the layer of fat I have going on….soon soon!
Thanks for being you and inspiring people. I love checking out all recipies and dream about making everything is the “Sweets” catagory. I made my Dad the Strawberry Rhubarb Mini-pies for Father’s Day and he loved them. He had three 🙂
Love your blog! Your recipes and posts keep me inspired! I always check your site first. Many recipes from other sites are bland, but not yours! Keep them coming….The transformation of your body was incredible. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for sharing your story. I am comforted in the fact that someone that has been doing it for awhile still has balancing issues related to diet. I am about 2 months into Paleo and just trying to fine tune what is right for me. I can honestly say though that I have never felt better than I do eating this way.
Thank you… I had no idea you have only been on this journey for a couple of years. You inspire me everyday, and make me pee laughing! This article was like your other foot up my ass telling me” I CAN DO THIS”… and i know i can. With only several months of Cross Fit and 3 months of Paleo in my Lulu Lemon shorts i’m still fighting…. Thanks again Jules xxx
Juli- I sent you an email about this, but I will say it again. You are super inspiring. I am a bit taller than you (5’10) and have been about 150 for as long as I can remember…. it isn’t a bad weight for my height, but I just felt gross for a long time. Lifting heavy (well, I am not that strong yet… so as heavy as I can) has improved my body tone and made me feel so much better about how I look. The crossfit kool-aid tastes good 🙂
P.s. Don’t worry about the thunder thighs and butt… they help us look sexy in spandex!!! 😛
Your blog posts are great and it is fun to hear about other crossfit/paleo nuts. Life-changing :). Having muscles is fun.
Juli – Thank you, THANK YOU for this blog post. I’ve enjoyed your blog for quite some time now, laughed at every post, but have yet to comment cuz I’m a quiet, in the background kinda girl. I’m tall-ish (5’8″) and was always the last kid picked for the team growing up. I loved sports, was never that great though…very awkward which makes for hilarious home videos. My brother got me in to CrossFit over a year ago and I have been astounded at what my body can do that I never thought possible. I’ll admit I still struggle with the mental aspect of it (wishing I was smaller, being overly critical of my performances even though I’ve come so far…I seriously couldn’t even power clean a 45 lb bar when I started) and this post came at the perfect time for me. I almost cried. So stupid…but seriously. It’s people like you that inspire me to keep going. My brother has very recently affiliated his CrossFit gym and little ol’ non-athletic ME is now Level 1 certified and I am volunteering my time to help get his gym up and running. 😀
Thanks again. You’re a rock star.
Great post, as usual. I shared this with our members and wanted to thank you for sharing your “story”. I’m glad you have been able to become a healthy, strong, beautiful woman.
Love reading your Rando Rants – especially this one! I’ve been doing crossfit for my off-season training for hockey and I love it 🙂 I haven’t been strict about Paleo but this rant is inspiring!!
Love your stories and recipes! I have never liked exercise (except for some dancing!), but as I read your blog and also what others have to say, I’m beginning to be interested in crossfit. I am quite thin and have a clean diet, but I have zero muscle, so the thought of being stronger is appealing. Thanks for your honesty and for inspiring me to enjoy life, laugh, and be healthy. If I ever make it to a crossfit gym, you better believe I’ll be sporting a paleomg shirt!
I enjoyed your story. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Whoa! Scrawn bag!!!
Thanks for letting all of us in on that, really cool to read about. It’s great to see you come out on the other side in such a positive, healthy, ass kicking way. Personally I think you look your best now but I understand how it is being a girl….
Keep up the amazing work! Can’t wait to see where more time takes you.
I’m like 98% on th paleo bandwagon. Ready to make the full leap of faith and do whole 30 after this weekend (um Vegas wedding – so not happening there). Thanks for the boost of confidence that it’s doable!
Thanks for sharing. I’m a lot older than you and I’ve gotta say, I’d be THRILLED to look like your working out a little photo. Sigh.
I’m not a CrossFitter because I am working on getting my black belt in Muay Thai Boxing and that is taking up all my time right now. However, it’s something I’m considering for next year. I have a couple of friends who just started and I immediately pointed them to your blog.
I can 100% relate to feeling stuck/trying to figure out what your body wants so it leans out a bit. I am torn with eating to train and not eating to have thinner thighs. But I like feeling strong, so I eat and then I’m mad because the # on the scale is higher than I’d like to see. And yes to hormone issues, the pinpointed issue is my Thyroid, but it’s not alone. Thanks for your story, it definitely helps knowing I’m not the only one who can’t eat a cup of almond butter in one sitting and get away with it. 🙂
As a girl who went through very similar body transformations as you have appeared to, this is so incredibly powerful to read. Thank you for being so honest and open. Sometimes I find myself wishing I was back at my lowest weight, with little muscle and very little fat. But reading this post is such a positive reinforcement for the person I am today–so much stronger, and mentally healthier as well.
So thank you. Sincerely.
Awh, I wish you could have tagged Crossfit Evolve. They are a blast. John and Gene were super welcoming to me even though I was a pain in the ass crybaby. Well, I still am but now I’m too poor to go there. So I complain to my friends during our City Park WOD’s.
Thanks for sharing this. I am starting move from the skinner side to the more muscle side. It is good to hear that I am not the only one worried about this change! It’s a good thing 🙂
I love this post! Thanks for sharing. Also, I think you look way hotter now than at your thinnest. YOu look healthy and fit and beautiful! 🙂 Rock on Girl!
This was really motivational to read. I’m trying to put weight on through crossfitting and paleo so I can be a better crossfitter too, so seeing you from your thinnest to your ‘now’ picture is inspiring. Loved reading this!
Great post… and I can relate to the weight changes. I, however, could use some of your perspective on feeling empowered. I think this is just what I needed to read to get my mindset where it should be.
“Oh…and what the heezy are met cons?”
metabolic conditioning workouts, so fast paced workouts that are shorter in time.
Thank you for this blog Juli, I am in love with crossfit, so much so I went out and got my level one certificate. My main problem are is the nutrition. My husband and I love your site and cook about 80% of our meals from it. Thank you for your honesty with the struggles. I’m struggling but still pushing hard. Keep up the excellent work. My husband is in the marine corps and we are stationed in Okinawa Japan. I tell everyone I know and workout with about your site. Just spreading the Crossfit and Paleo love around the world.
This by far is the best blog post I’ve read in a while!! I need to be reminded that what’s on the scale isn’t important.. It’s such a huge hang up most woman are obsessed with (regrettably including myself)! My lowest weight in ages was only 3 months ago at 120.. I felt like shit but looked very lean..I think I’ve put on almost 15lbs and I’m upset but everyone tells me it’s muscle.. It’s very conflicting!! Im approaching 40 next month and dealing with hormonal issues too but I’m getting stronger!! Love CF and 100% paleo but I have one of those distorted mirrors 😉
Thanks for sharing, you’re so inspirational! I just started crossfit about 2 months ago and I can definitely see a huge difference in my legs already. I’ve always been a bean pole and could never seem to pack on muscle where it needed to be until I started crossfit and paleo. Love your blog!
Your big, strong ass and big, stong legs are enviable! I’ve been crossfitting for 3 mos, paleo for 2, have dropped a ton of fat and am ready to put on some serious muscle. You are an inspiration! Real women WANT to be strong.
Love Crossfit, Love Paleo, Love Juli B even more. 😀 Thanks as always for being apart of the best, most inspiring, most transforming year of my life. 😀
Juli – you’re awesome! Thanks for the inspirtation. I am going to get back into Crossfit sometime in August…did it for a while – LOVED IT – then needed a change. right now I am training for an olympic distance triathalon and just focusing on sport specific stuff (mostly swimming…I suck at swimming!) I signed up for a 30 day trial for a CF gym here in Jersey…been eating paleo for about three months now and it’s AMAZING! I love that I can eat Paleo and still eat freakin GOOD FOOD! I am actually excited to get back to CF because I was where you once were…too small and lean and have lost my strength (I’m only 5’3 and 118 lbs so I need that muscle to kick ass!) I Miss my big legs!!!!!!!!!!!! You are a hot mama! Thanks for all that you do!
I LOVE this post!! Your blog gives me that daily laugh out loud and spit coffee on my computer screen moment. I have had similar issues with putting on weight from training harder and I agree with you 100 percent. I would rather be stronger than before even if it means i’m not as small as I used to be!
I love your blog! I just started playing around with Paleo (haven’t quite got the harness on my will power yet, but moving in that direction). I used to do CrossFit to get in shape for my wedding and miss it so much. BUT, now I have a 1-year old and work from home, and my time is very, VERY limited. I know you said Paleo and CrossFit run your life… any advice for those of us who yearn to get back in shape but whose lives are run by something else (insert baby here)? I want to get back in shape, but am having difficulty finding time to plan, much less follow through with the plan! Help?
I thing everyone would love to get these results. Even thought it demands a lot of efforts, having healthy body and quality life is a good reason for a person to be proud. Great story!
I LOVE your story! I started a blog to document my store too. I strive to one day be a CrossFit trainer and love every step of the jouney. I love your blog and give you props pretty much daily on mine. You are an amazing inspiration!
Hey Juli,
I’m currently learning and training to do a pull up (not going well so far – I have ‘the fear’) I’ve googled the Kipping pull-up and am keen to give this a go.
I’d be grateful if you could reply with roughly how long it took you to go from hanging to full pull up? I’ve a feeling I could be progressing faster than I am.
Thanks – love reading the blog, keep up the ace work.
PS – Nice modelling for the new Impossible Tanks 🙂
Thanks for sharing your story, Juli. And thanks for your honesty!
I’ve been CFing for a little over a month now and have been full paleo for the same (did a month of no grains/legumes/processed foods before jumping all in). I’m down 10lbs and a dress size…but the best part is that I’ve never felt better in my life!
Your blog has made it so much easier. I think all of my recipes this week are from it…;). For what its worth, I think you look amazing at your current weight. Your muscle-tone is gorgeous!
You’re an inspiration. Thank you!
Your look now is my goal! I’m closer and closer to paleo, and the more I run/crossfit/paleo, my body changes more. I still have about 20 lbs of fat to shred to be able to prove that there are some abs in there, but your story inspires me to keep goin!
Been out of town and a little disconnected. Your story is great and inspring. Thanks for sharing.
I loved ready about your journey. I also love knowing that I wasn’t the only one that shied away from volleyball because of the “bun huggers”. Funny thing is now I play 😉 I also used to hate my ample booty (friends called it kabow). When it went away after having kids, leaving me with bleg (when butt goes right into leg)I realized that I loved it! I just started crossfit & it’s coming back. Yay! For me, it’s a sign of being strong.
How did I live without your blog for so long? Inspiring and SOOO funny! I’m 98% Paleo for past 6 months and in need of new recipes… Your blog will keep me busy and welll-fed for quite a while (I’m starting with your treats, of course.) Thx!
Thought about doing crossfit, but it’s too expensive.
Do you know if there are other alternatives for poor students like myself? i just cant justify spending over 100$ per month for a membership when I am below the poverty line haha
Just do some CrossFit type movements in your own gym. That’s what I did and how I started. I just never went very heavy on lifts. I would look up different workouts through CrossFit gyms and do them on my own!
I love feeling my body getting stronger! Have been concentrating on being thin for so long that it is sometimes hard to accept that strong legs and thighs mean bigger and that I am going to give up two pairs of jeans that I have kept as my ‘good weight’ jeans. I love food and the whole combination (working out and eating Paleo) although can be difficult to deal with on my work stretches (I work nights), makes me feel AWESOME to where when I don’t get to lift, sit/pull/push up etc…I get in wardly cranky. Thanks for your continuous inspiration and damn fantastic food!
Hi Juli!!
Having fun reading your blog and earning some amazing new recipes. I just have a question; did you ever have really bad knee pain when you first began CF? Especially with box jumps? I think I have “runner’s knee” which I guess can be caused by a lot of jumping while working out, and weak leg muscles. My leg muscles are def. still pretty weak, but I keep going. Any tips on alleviating knee pain while increasing leg muscle strength?
I didn’t deal with knee pain at the beginning, but I deal with it now when I lift heavier. All I do is ice and sometimes wear a brace or tape it to calm it down a little. Sorry I’m not much help.
learning new recipes, not ‘earning’
Thanks for posting this! i’m always curious as to how much weight i’m supposed to gain/lose and what other people struggle with. I feel like i’m alone hating this diet and everyone else loves it? But I do love it, because I ate a bagel the other day and almost died from bloat and constipation (no joke). I am scared to get too big, already have big skater thighs from my childhood sport. So maybe tone down the weight in that area. Still all for big strong arms though. Either way you look amazing at all your stages!
I have gained 10 lbs CrossFitting after a near miss with the eating disorder rabbit hole. I’ve been struggling with the competing goals of skinny vs beaststrong ever since, and slowly but surely beast is winning. You are part of that. I have been saying to myself for awhile that “if I were a beast maybe I would look like Juli, which would be awesome!” If you offered me an overnight weight gain of 15 lbs but in the morning I’d have a muscle-up, I would take it without hesitation. Thanks for showing us what awesome really looks like.
I just started Paleo on Monday after CrossFitting for 7 months. I cant wait to lose more weight and feel better. I am 213 now, yeah, I’m a fire plug – I know but I started CrossFit at 228. So I am super stoked so far. I just got back from San Diego visiting my two best friends, they both said I looked stonger and healthier, it made me feel amazing by them saying that. I am looking forward to this journey of a life change. Now I just need to not talk about CrossFit to my non CrossFit peeps… that may be tougher than Paleo eating. You are amazing Juli. Keep up the fantastic recipes, making me laugh and being a strong woman. That’s what’s hot.
LIKE!
Thank you for your amazing story. I’ve been following the Paleo diet for the past few months and have seen my life transform before my eyes. I’ve lost over 45 pounds and am now looking forward to implementing crossfit as well. I wrote a review about my experience. Please click here if interested. http://mikeshonestreviews.com/paleoprimal-diet-review
I loved your story and your honesty about your body. Too many women focus on getting skinnier and ripped and fight their bodies. You remind of my wife. She has been Crossfitting now for about 4 months and loves it, particuarly the Olympic Weightlifting class. She is strong and loves that she is getting stronger. She still wants to use weight and has embraced Paleo ever since we did a Paleo challenge at our gym last month. I sent her your story. I know she will love it. Thanks for the website and all the great recipes.
Tom LaCoppola
I hope this isn’t insulting, but DON’T EVER GET THAT SKINNY AGAIN!!!!!! You look so freaking amazing now!
Damn, girl! You and I have the same body type and height. I could put my face on your body 2 years ago and my boyfriend would think it was me. You’ve given me hope for a fitter, stronger body. I trail run and hike with my dog. My boyfriend keeps pushing me to lift weights because that what he does and he swears it will help me lose weight. Not too helpful coming from a GUY. Men never have as much trouble with weight loss as women, I swear. I hate them for it.
I have been eating Paleo since January and lost a bit of weight, but felt tons better! I have so so so much more energy!!! I have hypothyroidism, and eating Paleo gives me back the energy, clear skin, and blood circulation I’ve lost over the past many years when combined with thyroid meds. I’ve been toying with the idea of joining CrossFIt. Now that I see your progression and results, I am convinced that is the way to go. Finally, a success story I can relate to!
PS- your food is DELISH! I use your website more than my own cookbooks.
girl quit hatin on your ass and thighs!! i LOVE EM. in a completely platonic way. “big” = solid, strong, powerful, beautiful!! crossfit has revolutionized what i perceive as beautiful and YOU ARE! keep up the good work!
I find you so refreshing and I enjoy your blog and your recipes. Myhusband and I began crossfit and paleo together about 6 months ago and I, too, enjoy cooking now more than ever. I have also put on weight due to the lifting but find myself comfortable with my body for the first time in my entire life….which is odd at age 34 to say. Thank you for being so honest and sharing your story and your love of food 🙂
I’m cool with having bigger legs and a firmer/fuller butt…but geez…someone needs to start making clothes to fit girls like us!! I can’t find a pair of jeans that fit my legs without being huge in the waist and shorts..ugh…. but, I wouldn’t trade it for anything!!
I’ll cut out nuts, I’ll cut out fruit, I’ll try new vegetables, eating less protein, eating more protein. It’s a never ending process trying to figure out what my body likes and dislikes. And it’s ever changing. What my body liked a year ago when I started paleo is completely different than what it likes now. So it’s annoying. And listening to your body it’s a tough process.
Thanks Juls, for keeping it real for us all. This hit home for me! Love your work!! <3
Hi Juli,
I just wanted to add my voice to the chorus. I love your blog — the recipes you share are easy to make and your honesty about your life is refreshing.
You are gorgeous and I wish you all the best!
Paleorifically Yours,
Kendra
Hey Juli, I really love your blog and have a question for you. I have not started at a CrossFit gym yet, due to the expense, but I wanted to know if you would recommend those types of exercises to someone who has over 100 lbs to lose? I started on the road to Paleo in May, but fell off of the wagon on vacation. Will start back now that I’m back but was wondering where would be a good place to start for exercising. Any thoughts?
Start with body weight movements and then work your way up to some light weight barbell exercises. The more you begin to lift weights, the faster the weight will drop off, but ease your body into it. Hope that helps!
Thanks Juli! I swear when i hit the lottery, I’m coming out there and we are gonna get that cookbook together!! LOL!!
Hi Juli. I am relatively new to your blog, but loving it so far. I particularly loved this post since I feel similarly about my body as you described here (getting stronger, but also bigger all the time). I started doing CrossFit about 9 months ago and Im currently in the throes of some seriously awful hand ripping. When I started I couldnt come close to doing a single pullup and I made it my goal in life to do one. Crossfit whoops you so much that the first pullup came before I knew it and at this point I am finally to the point of trying to make it through pullup WODs w/o bands. The kicker is that now I half dread those days because the skin on my poor hands is never healed. Can you offer any advice for how to get through this phase? Im told that once I get stronger with pullups and dont need such a big kip anymore then I wont rip so much and my hands will just toughen up, but it seems impossible to get there right now since all they do is tear, and I consequently never want to do any more pullups…thus never getting stronger with them. Ugh. Any advice would be SO appreciated. Thanks!
Juli- You’re body was insane even when you had “not much muscle.” Are you kidding me right now? I love your blog and your recipes…they are amazingly tasty. I started CrossFit and Paleo this April and had the pleasure of going to Regionals! It was so inspiring and you rocked! The diet has changed my body and I love it. I lost 7 pounds in the first 5 days. Mostly because through the diet that I have a gluten intolerance. What I used to call a “food baby” was really a gluten baby. I hit a frustrating plateau but it was because I was eating way too much fruit. Ooops my bad! My boyfriend and I are in sort of a weight loss contest that turned into a “get ripped” contest while he’s deployed to Afghanistan. They do CrossFit out there but I’m pretty sure I’m winning! Thank you so much for your daily inspiration and for being you!
I think you look the best at your current size, with a bit of meat on your hindquarters. I bet you feel a hundred times better now than when you were at your ‘skinniest’.
Juli,
My name is Sarah Bracy, and I am writing you from Tennessee.
I wanted your honest, blunt opinion on a situation.
I’ve been on and off with crossfit- like exercises for the past 5 years. [the circuit/intensity stuff] I recently found out there is a new crossfit gym in my area (finally) It’s still a 40 min drive but I’m willing to make it. Anyways to catch to the chase. This gym is saying that I need to do the on-ramp program, which I completely agree, but they only offer it at random ass times of the month, and with my schedule it is almost impossible for me to make the program. I asked about a personal one, and still pay the full amount and even a little extra. The owner just kind of blew me off, as she has a few times. She kind of makes me feel like I’m inadequate to be there. I thought I had done well my first day. I did the WOD in 14:56. Pretty much, I’d have to wait an entire month before they let me WOD again. Frankly, I’m impatient and I live to workout.
I’m not sure if I should wait the month, or keep doing my own workouts like you did before crossfit. What’s your opinion?
I am moving to Denver in December, any advice on which gym to join out there? I’m looking to feel accepted in a gym, for once.
Fitness Background: Few half marathons, Ragnar Relays, several 5ks and 10ks, Warrior Dash; currently training for triathlons and a cycling race across TN.
Thanks for your time,
Sarah
Do you know where you will be living in Denver? You should send me an email and I can help you out?
In the beginning I’ll be staying with my friend. He lives on Vine street downtown. I will be there either later this month or early August. Then again in the fall for job interviews. I would love the help!
Paleo Question:
I live on a farm, and we grow almost all our vegetables. I have just canned roughly 50 pints of greens beans and I will have about 100-200 ears of corn to put away too. I don’t think I could justify throwing out all those vegetables because of Paleo. Besides, I LOVE all my vegetables just as much as chocolate. I know and understand the science behind why they are a no-go food…..What would you suggest on doing?
In all honesty, if you want to go strict paleo, you can donate the food so you’re not throwing it away. That way you won’t feel as bad about it. And there are all kinds of awesome gyms around Denver so just try out a few and see which one suits you best!
what shorts are you wearing in that last pic? you look supa fly
Those are just Lululemon spandex!
Juli,
I absolutely love reading your posts! How do you stay motivated? I work at a hospital on 12 hour shifts and there are always snacks how do you turn them down? I almost feel angry when I don’t get what I want… Any thoughts? My husband makes it seem so easy when to me its not.. He is the one who has made our house “paleo”. And is into the crossfit thing. I just cant get my head around that I feel like its a chore.
Thanks!
Hey Melanie! That honestly took me a while to get past. I always still wanted those foods when I first started paleo. Once I stuck with paleo more and more, the more that “bad” foods would make me incredibly sick, so I wanted them less and less. And the more I started making paleo treats that helped me crave those bad foods way less!
Thanks for sharing your story. I’ve been digging your blog since going paleo a few months ago. You’re a great source of motivation, inspiration, and reeeally tasty treats.
How did you go about starting out with Crossfit independently? I’ve been wanting to get into it but the nearest Crossfit gym is an hour away (bummer) and costs more than I can afford right now on a grad school budget (fail). If you have any suggestions/resources for crossfitting without an official crossfit gym that would be very much appreciated!
I just started it in my school rec center, doing workouts from the main site (crossfit.com), looking up videos in their archives so i could try the movements on my own, then a went to a smaller gym that had better space and weight choices. I just would look back at past workouts and pick ones that I knew I could do when I started out, so a lot of body weight mvoements then a lot of jumping rope. that sort of thing. i did that for probably 6 months before i went to a crossfit gym! I also did a lot of workouts in the park!
Thanks for the awesome post, Juil! Just recently found your blog while I have been debating whether to try Crossfit for quite some time. I am ready to do it but am so nervous!! I run quite a bit and lift some but I’m wondering–the training you did beforehand (practicing kipping pull ups, double unders, etc)…should I do that before I try a workout at a CF gym?! I don’t even know what half the terms mean haha. Thank you for all the inspiration!
If you already have a CF gym ready to go to, just go there so you can learn everything with someone else’s help!
Went to the Games this past weekend, am now just a teensy bit obsessed with CF and Paleo… thus finding your blog. And pretty much resonate with your humor. lol. Any blog posts (anywhere) that show what a “Paleo” stocked pantry looks like? Thanks In Advance 😉
Check out health-bent.com. Awesome pantry list on there!
Juli – do you know what your body fat % was during those three “phases” of your journey?
When I was at my heaviest, I was about 20-22%, thinnest was at 12.5%, and I have no idea what i’m at now
WOW!!! What’s your definition of working out “a little”? (That is an actual question, not rhetorical 🙂 )
I just had a baby 6 months ago and at 42, that “working out a little” is looking pretty darn good to me as a goal!!!
I just wanted to let you know I am kind of going through this right now. Yeah I am totally pissed that I am going to have to buy all new jeans because my ass wont quit but I feel awesome doing CrossFit– and sometimes I forget that.
So I guess, thanks for sharing it with the interwebz. It made me feel good today.
Juli, i love your blog so much. You are so inspirational to everyone (Crossfitters or not!) and beautiful inside and out. Keep doing what you do and show the rest of the world what it means to CRUSH LIFE! Thank you for being you! xoxo
Juli,
Thanks for sharing your story. I have never, ever played sports, swam, run nothing = absolutely no muscle, and I die after running a block haha. But I’ve always been thin. I feel like so many people have played a sport so I just don’t relate to them, and how they are able to bounce back into working out. I have gone to gym classes and worked out but really never put on much muscle or gained noticeable cardio abilities. I am tired of just being thin and want to be fit. Your story has inspired me. I have just started crossfit and paleo (I do cheat here and there) and love it. I’m always last in class finishing on any of the workouts but when I read your story it gives me hope that muscle is on it’s way…:-) You look amazing and I’d die for your abs
i really loved reading about your crossfit and paleo story, juli. i can’t join a crossfit gym right now but i do short workouts at home- usually just 15 minutes but i find that is enough for me right now. like you, i never played sports and was never a competitive person. i played soccer for a day and got kicked in the crotch. so painful so i quit that day! but i was a gymnast, cheerleader, dancer, and did musicals/choir so i was always in good shape. it wasn’t until i got into college that i started olympic powerlifting, swimming, and cross country. this brought my fitness to a whole new level and i felt strong. granted, i also gained like 20 lbs but i was able to lift heavy shit and swim a lot and teach a crapload of fitness classes.
so keep doing what you’re doing! whatever makes you feel good and happy is the path you should stay on.
JB,
You are a riot! Your post are funny and the recipes are great. I want to thank you for helping me and my lady stay on Paleo. Our eating habits have improved dramatically! My girlfriend has dropped 20 lbs and is no longer diabetic! I just recently reached my goal of dropping 25 lbs and I feel great! Looking forward to trying one of your pumpkin recipes really soon. Aloha!
You’re my idol. No lies, all truth. Everyone strives to be a Camille or Annie and I always tell people that I want to be like Juli from PaleOMG. I love that you know how to live a balanced life style between CrossFit, Paleo, and having fun.
Thanks for being an inspiration! 🙂
Hi Juli! I was wondering if there is an online crossfit gym thingy mo bopper (look how amazing my grammar is) because there are no crossfit gyms nearby…….. 🙁
Oh and one more question: what ab workouts do you do?
Wait wait I lied one more question: have you done the Whole30 challenge and if so do you recommend it?
Hey there!! If you check out crossfit.com, they have workouts and videos to look at. You can also check different crossfit gyms for workouts to try on your own. I don’t do any ab workouts, lifting is just super core intensive. And I have done the whole30 once and would recommend it!
You know what? You’re rockstar hot in all three of those photos. Just saying….
I’m really excited to try a bunch of your recipes. I don’t do CrossFit, my husband and I do the StrongLifts 5×5, but I want so badly to eat better. Your recipes look divine and I think will make reducing/cutting out dairy and grains far easier.
Hi Juli! I’m in Denver and started SCD/Paleo eating about a month ago (I’m still weaning myself off of dairy). Anyway, would you be able to recommend a Crossfit gym that would be good for a beginner in Denver?
there are a toooooon of gyms in Denver, we would need to specify where in Denver
Hey Juli
I love reading your story& looking at your website…I don’t get on here often enough.. I think you look awesome & I would love to have your abs too…. I have to say I am glad that you put the pictures in & your weight cause as a female I am so so struggling with the whole weight number thing right now…. I try not to compare myself to others & am so not afraid to lift heavy weights… I’m just struggling in what to do with my goals on fitness & so on… I just started Cross Fit this past month… I cant really afford to keep going to the Cross Fit gym cause it so pricey & belong to an all Girls Gym for years now I am the only on there who picks up the heavy Weights & have maxed out there Dumbbells & kettle bells.. So I don’t know I am just babbling but any advice you have for doing cross Fit on my own I would love it… I started lifting Heavy Weights from a book so are there any good Cross Fit work out books that you my recommend??? or are you writing one with work outs & pictures…. I would buy it… Thank you Jamie
Juli!
I have been considering crossfit. I am only 5’0″ and overweight. I think I would enjoy crossfit from my understanding. I do worry, however, about putting on too much muscle. I know people say this a lot and it’s mostly silly, but you do talk here about how you bulked up a bit. I love how you look in the beach pic (though you look amazing in all the pics)! I think you have good muscle tone there. How do you make crossfit work for your particular goals? I think the muscle is hot, but I don’t want too much as I don’t think it looks as good on very short girls.
Thanks!!
Best,
Shannon
My husband and I were doing CrossFit on our own for a while until we moved to CO. We just started paleo about 2 months ago (I’m currently on a Whole30) and we joined CF Evolve last June. Best freaking box there is. I love those guys! Probably the best place to get started. I don’t ever want to move so I can always go there 🙂
Thanks for sharing your story.
thanks for this!! i have been cf-ing for 2 months, eating about 80% paleo, and i weighed myself yesterday and gained 5 lbs. i almost died. so thank u for ur story! and u look awesome! really..need to fricken throw the scale away!
You have an amazing body! My goodness. I am getting ready to start a fitness bootcamp and I’m toying around with the idea of eating paleo as well. After bootcamp, I may try out Crossfit. Loved your story!!!
Thank you for your story, I gained 15# within a year of doing CrossFit, I am a lot stronger now, yes, my thighs and butt are bigger too! Glad i’m not the only one! I contemplated quitting because of the weight gain. But i’ve come so far with my strength. You story helped me to keep CrossFitting!
I wish ALL women had legs like your! The “Hollywood skinny” is pathetic. You look awesome girl!
How much do you depend on measuring foods? I’m looking to lean out as I get stronger. I try to mess around with my meals and food schedules but cant seem to find the right mix. I love food so much that its hard to measure (it’s psychological) and be that strict all the time, but I estimate and definitely eat clean. What would you say for trying to lean out as you get stronger? Thanks!
i don’t measure foods, just try to eat smaller portions. if you’re trying to lean out, smaller portions seem to work for me. it’s not much fun for someone who likes food, but it definitely helps
I know this post is old but I absolutely love it! I love that you like your strong body better than your thin one. And you look great! I feel so much better now that I stopped too using on being skinny, I’m debating trying paleo because after running and strength training, I don’t see too much of a difference in my body. How did you start paleo? Did you work your way into it or just go all in?
i worked my way into it over months and months. it took me a long time to say yes to it. i started with zone then slowly weened myself off bad foods
Thank you for writing this post and for sharing your incredible photos! As a women who has struggled with body image issues for years and who is hyper focused on the scale, it hit home. I started CrossFit 8 months ago and began eating Paleo 6 months ago. I am 5’4″ and weighed 127 when I began CrossFit. I was at a weight I was very happy with and felt good about myself when I got on the scale. I have gained 5 lbs and I am having a very difficult time with it. I can’t decide if I am just eating too much, my portions are too big, I have just gained weight or if I have gained muscle. I love CrossFit, I love pushing myself, attaining new goals, beating an old time, I have never felt better, but that number keeps getting me. I have been trying to tell myself “maybe it is muscle” gain, but wasn’t sure if it was just bs. Seeing your body transformation is incredible. Thank you.
Can I just say, you look great in your Pre-crossfit pic. I think you look fabulous and I only wish my body could be as strong and as beautiful. I dislike the notion that woman must be skinny lil things to be beautiful. Funny thing is I’m natural thin, but with a booty and sum thighs, no calves and abs are horrible (babies). I just started crossfit about 7 weeks now, it’s the best thing ever! My goals is to fit into my clothes, be stronger, more physically active. I’m really thinking about this Paleo way of eating, it may take me some time but I’m really interested. Thanks for sharing your story.
I just started crossfit a month and half ago and paleo a week ago. I love what my body has started to change into. Thanks for sharing your story.
my hell! thanks for this post! i found it at the perfect time. ive been doing CF for almost 9mo now. i feel like i have gotten so big, i know its muscle (and some more fat- curse you belly fat) but it still pisses me right off. i look back at smaller pictures and wish i could go back- but not totally. i was too small, all i could really do was run long distances. pretty much it’s that damn skinny girl mentality that i dont want to be stuck in, but cant seem to drag myself out of.
anyways. thanks a ton for sharing this. i appreciate it!
quick question- i do CF 5 days a week, sometimes i’ll add in a little extra something after a WOD- a little run, or work on DU’s, etc., but i’m curious to know what extra stuff athletes like you do. how many days do you cf and how long do you workout? basically i want to shed a little fat and wonder if im eating too much or not working out enough?!
xo
hey allison! I don’t compete anymore so I don’t do the same types of workouts that i did before. When I was competing, I did usually 3 two-a-days per week and 3 one day workouts. I did some running sometimes but that was it. I did not shed any fat from this, though. I gained a lot of muscle, but I kept some of my fat. not sure why but that’s how my body seemed to work. As I’ve stopped working out quite as much, I’ve lost weight in the form of fat as well as muscle, so I can’t say that working out more actually helped me.
Do you still coach crossfit classes? Just wondering because I read in another post you do that for a living.
Btw great blog! Yours was one of a handful that convinced me eating Paleo was doable. Also, your athleticism is inspiring to me…working out more is something I’m trying to incorporate into my new paleoish lifestyle.
yep!! but a lot less than i used to since i travel so much more. so i only coach 2 days out of the week when i’m in town
I am kind of in the same vote you were. I am in college and want to start crossfit but no crossfit gym around. Did you just follow the websites workout or did you incorporate lifting, skills, etc in as well?
i followed body weight workouts that i found on crossfit.com. then after a couple months, i started adding lifts into it as well, watching videos on crossfit.com to learn the lifts correctly
Hi Juli,
I do Crossfit, I do paleo, actually I LOVE your blog, it help me to cook paleo haha! I would have a question for you. Like you, I have a love/hate Relationship with paléo/crossfit. Most with paleo because I hate eating meat at breakfast. My personal trainer said to me that we have to eat meat and nuts at breakfast but, if I want to do Paleo as a life style, I would have to love it… What do you suggest me to do? Do you always eat only meat and nuts at breakfast?
P.s. I’m a french canadian, so sorry my poor English!!
Thanks
Andy
i just eat leftovers most of the time. i tend to stay away from nuts because they don’t work well in my body. i like some eggs, meat and some avocado for breakfast
Hey! Bumped into your website through this post. Great post. This is not a boring story at all. Very interesting and well written.
I admire that you got inspired from others and didn’t just sit on your butt but went ahead and did things. And the results show!
I am a skinny guy wanting to bulk up and in the process of doing so. You inspire me.
Cheers and Happy and healthy living!
Kash
I have a question. Is crossfit something I should get in to if I haven’t been active for about 4 years? I’m 23 years old and just had a baby almost a year ago…before baby I weighed 140lbs, but now I weigh a lot more then that…haha.. I use to be very active, I played almost every sport you can think of and I horribly miss being in a competitive sport, but when I watch crossfit video’s I feel so intimated.
don’t feel intimidated. all levels can do crossfit because all workouts can be modified for that person. find a gym in your area that you trust the coaches and they can help you get in shape safely!
Just stumbled across your post whilst researching eating Paleo. I’m having the same constant battle with my diet and trying to find something that fits into my life long term is a real issue.
I think you look great though and am definitely inspired to give it a try.
First things first… some more blog stalking 🙂
Juli, Thanks for your story. You look amazing, btw! My story is very similar to yours, except I’m older, so I think my expectations for Crossfit were a littler higher. I started crossfitting when I turned 50. I have always been athletic and health conscience, but around 45, it seemed like no matter what I did workout wise, my body had ideas of it’s own!! Finally I gave in to the Crossfit buzz. After about 6 months, I gained lots of muscle mass, but still had not lost the inches around my middle and my upper arms. I most certainly didn’t have any definition anywhere but my legs. I was to the point that I could RX most WODs, so why wasn’t I getting the results that most members were getting? Like most CF boxes, members are always talking about Paleo. I caved and after much research, decided to give it a shot. After much web surfing, I came across Paleo in the box. It made perfect sense. As my fitness levels changes, my diet needs to change. Now that I know this I wondered how I could have missed it! Paleo diet in the box, showed me how to eat according to my fitness goals and needs. I am including the link for you and fellow crossfitters and hope that it is as helpful to you as it was to me. I was so frustrated after being so dedicated and not getting the results. I am sure my age has everything to do with it, but this information helped me lose the inches (17 total!!) and look much younger that 52!! The education is worth it. Thanks for letting me share it!! http://4f40809nz5yn6-iomhtmqk6xd2.hop.clickbank.net/?tid=XFITBOX
Juli, Thanks for your story. You look amazing, btw! My story is very similar to yours, except I’m older, so I think my expectations for Crossfit were a littler higher. I started crossfitting when I turned 50. I have always been athletic and health conscience, but around 45, it seemed like no matter what I did workout wise, my body had ideas of it’s own!! Finally I gave in to the Crossfit buzz. After about 6 months, I gained lots of muscle mass, but still had not lost the inches around my middle and my upper arms. I most certainly didn’t have any definition anywhere but my legs. I was to the point that I could RX most WODs, so why wasn’t I getting the results that most members were getting? Like most CF boxes, members are always talking about Paleo. I caved and after much research, decided to give it a shot. After much web surfing, I came across Paleo in the box. It made perfect sense. As my fitness levels changes, my diet needs to change. Now that I know this I wondered how I could have missed it! Paleo diet in the box, showed me how to eat according to my fitness goals and needs. I am including the link for you and fellow crossfitters and hope that it is as helpful to you as it was to me. I was so frustrated after being so dedicated and not getting the results. I am sure my age has everything to do with it, but this information helped me lose the inches (17 total!!) and look much younger that 52!! The education is worth it. Thanks for letting me share it!! http://4f40809nz5yn6-iomhtmqk6xd2.hop.clickbank.net/?tid=XFITBOX
You look awesome! Your post has let me know that I better hit those weights. Thank you.
Hey Juli, I have to agree with everyone else and say you look amazing now!! I’m 5’4 and have always been pretty small. I’m definitely getting stronger but I don’t feel like I’m gaining weight like I would like to. If you can lend any ideas as to what and how much you were eating when you went from skinny to strong that would be amazing! I try to eat mostly paleo but am wondering if there are primal foods that could help in (healthy) weight gain. Thanks, and I love your blog!!
Hey Juli
I would like to ask you some questions about crossfit and paleo, if you don’t mind? 🙂
Would you consider doing a re-post of your progress as of now? I’ve been following you since you started your blog and have evolved my paleo eating, similar to you. I would love to see some current progress photos of you and hear more about your workouts, how many times a week you crossfit , what you supplement with, etc. You continue to be an inspiration to so many of us. Thank you for your blogging. I’m sorry people can be so mean to you on Instagram, but there are so many of us out there that love how real you are and love your recipes (I mean you’re on the New York Times Bestseller list!). Thank you for the consideration. Have a lovely weekend!
I love this post. You look awesome! I
Thank you, thank you, thank you. I’ve been doing crossfit for 4 months and already gained 12 lbs and my weight is going up weekly. All of a sudden my clothes don’t fit and I have this big bum….I love it, but wasn’t ready for the changes and had no idea how my body would react.
I’ve been searching online for information about crossfit and weight gain and nutrition, I just found what I was looking for. I think it’s hard for women to relate to the weight gain. We have to retrain our brains.
Here’s to beautiful, muscular, fit, crossfitting women everywhere!
Do you take a protein supplement post workout? I’ve been crossfitting for 2 years now but fluctuate when it comes to building muscle.. What would you suggest as an aid for building muscle yet burning fat?
i SOMETIMES drink a protein drink post workout (formulx – its on the right hand side of my site). It just makes me feel better throughout the day, but i don’t use it for building muscle particularly. I just try to eat a healthy, round diet and workout hard. I wish I had a better answer
I’ve noticed lately you appear as slim as you did in the above pic captioned “my thinnest” — I’m curious what you’ve done differently as it appears you’re working out as you always have. Cheers!
I just started lifting lighter. It’s been about 3 years now of lifting lighter and lighter and I think my body has healed quite a bit from going through hormonal imbalances from lifting too heavy for my body and not eating enough at the time. I talk about it in this post here: https://paleomg.com/weekly-workouts-38/
Thank you so much, I missed that post! You really look amazing, and still strong. My turn ????
Would you mind posting an updated version of this? If you ever got it figured out what your body needs, and if you ever figured out how to make it quit consuming your life? hehe
I just actually posted something about that recently here: https://paleomg.com/paleomg-community/my-weight-loss-journey-over-the-past-three-years
You are such an inspiration to me! I have been gaining weight while starting Crossfit and feeling discouraged with the scale. I thought I needed to be 120 (I’m 5’7 also) but you look better at 150 with all that amazing muscle so that is my new goal!
Thank you for sharing your story. You’re changing lives.
Wow, your thighs are gross
thanks for your feedback, rory. but they are the only thighs i’ve got. god bless!
Just wondering what made you change 8 years later??
I’m not shredded like a lot of the CrossFit women out there and I truly wish I was smaller. BUT I would never in a million years lift less to lean down. Never. I have worked very hard for 2 years to become stronger and fitter and to think about lifting less than my body is able, is just stupid to me. CrossFit has given me the strength to do things I didn’t know were possible so why would I deny those things and make myself weaker just for asthetic appeal?