Meet Jo and Sarah Warner!  This mother and daughter has made tremendous strides both in and out of the gym.  Sarah has been a member of the Bomber Crew for almost a year, and recently convinced her mom (Jo) to join in all the fun.  If you haven’t yet met Jo or Sarah you really need to make some time and say hello.  Both of these ladies are a true pleasure in class, full of excitement and energy and willing to try and push themselves for more.   

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How did you hear about CrossFit and what was your first experience?

Jo:  My daughter, Sarah did Crossfit for a couple years. When she moved to Ohio and joined Bombers, she worked on getting me to join with her, saying they will modify, modify, modify. Well, it took over 3 months for her to get me here and now you could not drag me away!

Sarah: I think the first time I heard about CrossFit was around 2010. I had a few coworkers who would share their workout stories with me every morning and I thought they were insane. It sounded exciting, but I didn’t think I could do it any of the stuff they were talking about. Finally, a few years later, another coworker wore me down, and talked me into going. I fell in love instantly. I wasted no time joining

 

When did you first come to Bombers CrossFit?

Jo: January 2019, I arrived to Bombers a little nervous. I did not  know what I would be able to do. I met coach Amy; she was patient and encouraging. I was so sore afterward, but determined I would keep coming back.

Sarah: My first was August 2018. Andy was coaching. I think it was one of the first days at the new facility. The rig wasn’t up yet, if I remember correctly.

 

How many days do you CrossFit?

Jo: I started at 2 days a week and now I am here 4-5 days a week. 

Sarah:  I aim for 4 times per week.

 

What classes do you normally take?

Jo: I have been to a few afternoon classes.  I would love to rise and shine for the 5 or 6am (ha!). So far the 10:30 seems to be where I have landed. My favorite classes are when Sarah and I get to go together! 

Sarah: I typically go to 4:30 or 5:30. If I have the day off work, I’ll go to 10:30 and workout with my mom, which is super fun!

 

What motivates you/keeps you coming back to Bombers CrossFit?

Jo: I worked with a personal trainer (a long time ago!)  and had no idea whether I would like a group workout.  I do!  The coaches are encouraging and master at modifying the WOD for me (arthritis in both knees, degenerative disks, plantar fasciitis and no range of motion in one wrist).  Even when I am sore, I always feel mentally and physically better. Bombers is more fun than any time I have spent in any gym.

Sarah: Primarily my motivation is to improve my health and overall wellness. And of course, I really enjoy the people at Bombers. Everyone one is really encouraging and I learn so much from each of the coaches. Having my mom attend is something is really motivating and encouraging for me too. It’s fun to talk about the WOD and share how we did each day. 

 

What’s your favorite thing about the Dayton area?

Jo: Family Family Family!  My sister lives here. My husband, Mike, and I both grew up here. We moved away about 40 years ago. We came back when we received a humanitarian assignment to WPAFB for our elderly parents, in 2012. Also our children, Sarah and David live in the area. 

Sarah: I love that the majority of my family lives in Ohio. Growing up a military brat, I’ve never lived close to extended family. It’s really strange but such a blessing to be able to drive 20 minutes and have lunch with my grandma. Our Sunday family dinner has become one of the highlights of my week.

 

What accomplishment are you the proudest of (inside and outside of the gym)?

Jo: In the gym this week I had three PR lifts and finally jumped for the first time in over 25 years. It may sound minor, but with my ailments I have a fear of my body leaving the ground and fear of falling. After 4 months I can finish a WOD without feeling as if I got run over by a truck!  Outside the gym, I have been blessed with a wonderful husband of 36 years 2 great children Sarah and David, and a beautiful granddaughter, Norah.

Sarah: I don’t have a specific moment I can point to, but I’m really proud of the journey I’ve been on the last three years. In 2016, I became very ill, I had to quit my job and CrossFit, and spent over a year on bed rest. Regaining my health, the past  years has been a challenge. It was a really big victory for me when I felt strong enough to reintroduce CrossFit this past fall. It’s played a big role in helping me reclaim my life. I think I’m just really proud of how far I’ve come, and the healing God has done in my life. 

 

After a hard workout, what is your favorite meal?

Jo: My favorite foods are Asian and Mexican.  But a protein drink after WODs!

Sarah: Usually roasted veggies with sweet potatoes. 

 

What are some of your interests outside of CrossFit?

Jo: I am a retired massage therapist.  I enjoy volunteering at Fish Food Pantry in Fairborn. Any type of family time, dinners, boating or playing Uno with Norah. I schedule everything around CrossFit!

Sarah: I enjoy spending time with family, reading, and just hanging out with my dogs. I like to take them hiking in Glen Helen, which is a quick walk from my house.

 

What is one goal within the gym that you’re working on?

Jo: I would like do deeper squats and full lunges.

Sarah: I really want to get pull ups!

 

What impact has CrossFit had on your life/lifestyle/level of fitness?

Jo: Actually, climb stairs without pain in my knees and all around I feel better.  I am stronger, but not as strong as I am going to be!

Sarah: I appreciate how CrossFit pushes me outside of my comfort zone. Time and time again it’s helped me realize I am capable of more than I realized. The lessons I’ve learned, in the gym, carry over into the rest of my life.  

 

What advice would you give to a newbie?

Jo: It is true, CrossFit is for everyone. The word is modify. Do what you can. You are only competing against yourself. It is better than anything you have done before starting CrossFit.  Keep coming back, keep moving forward, and never stop!

Sarah: It doesn’t matter where you are on your fitness journey, you can do CrossFit! Let the coaches help you scale, as needed. The movements will feel more natural with time. Just come in, do the work, and you’ll surprise yourself with the progress you’ll make in a few months’ time.