Wine Country CrossFit

We posted Jessica’s inspiring story last week. But when it posted Napa was surrounded by absolute havoc, stress and mayhem. Her tenacity is an inspiration and we wanted you to see it. So we’re posting it again!

Jessica is a Napa native who recently returned to CA. You’ll recognize her great smile and always positive attitude, and you might also notice the beautiful baby girl often in tow. She struggled for many years with addiction, and she is forth rite about the roll CrossFit plays in her recovery.

1. When did you start CrossFit and why?
I started CrossFit almost four years ago in Tennessee. After battling addiction for twenty years I finally got sober at the end of 2012. I couldn’t have been more unhealthy. I had no idea how to take care of myself and it was a slow but steady path to recovery. After about a year of sobriety I met a friend who told me how beneficial CrossFit was for people in recovery. I joined right away and let my coach know my background. This honesty was scary, but he worked with me diligently to address specific issues. Starting CrossFit was the best decision I ever made for my health. Now when I meet others who battle addiction and depression I encourage them to try CrossFit. More recently, I’ve moved back here to Napa, had a baby 6 months ago and joined WCCF. CrossFit has helped me with postpartum symptoms and given me more energy with the new baby.

2. What time of day do you come in?
Both mornings and evenings. I juggle caring for an infant with being a wife, so I CrossFit whenever I can fit it in!

3. What is one type of movement you hate and one you love?
I hate wall balls because they never seem to get easier and I just can’t catch my breath. I like cleans because it feels amazing when you get them just right.

4. Any big goal(s) set for the next year?
My goals are a 220# deadlift, 125# clean and to swim the Lake Berryessa 1 mile race next spring.

5. Name an athlete that inspires you and why.
US Olympic swimmer Katie Ledecky. She met Michael Phelps as a young child and decided right then to dedicate herself to swimming.  It’s amazing to see what she did with her dedication and commitment.

6. Tell us one fun fact about you.
I once lived in Chile for 3 years thinking I’d learn Spanish, but I barely did! You know, partying is a full time job!

7. You were left on a deserted island.  What one food and thing would you want to be left with you?
A salami deli sandwich and a Bible. But I don’t think I’d make it very long!

8. How has CrossFit helped you in life?
CrossFit gives me energy and helps with postpartum depression. Is also regulates my anxiety. CrossFit is crucial to my continued recovery and I consider it to be one of the necessary components. I have learned to live a healthy and clean life and CrossFit has been instrumental in that. Did I mention how much I love the community? People need other people, we need community, and WCCF is a big support for me.

9. How have workouts changed for you over the years?
As I mentioned, when I first joined CrossFit in Tennessee I was coming out of a 20 year addiction and was physically falling apart. I had never attempted to get in shape, so I started with on-ramp workouts and slowly improved in all areas. Since giving birth 6 months ago I do much less weight and am a lot slower in my movements, but I feel so much more accomplished after finishing a WOD. And I couldn’t be happier! I’m happy to be alive, happy to be a part of WCCF, and so grateful that I get to be a mother.