Becoming a dad for the first time is a mix of emotions—excitement, joy, a little bit of fear, and a whole lot of love. As I prepare for this new chapter, I find myself reflecting on the many conversations I’ve had with parents and grandparents who walk through the doors of CrossFit Viroqua. They tell me they want to be better parents or grandparents, not just for themselves but for the little ones who look up to them. They want energy to chase their kids around the yard, strength to carry them up the stairs, and mobility to get down on the ground and play—without pain, struggle, or fear of not being able to get back up.
These conversations are often emotional because they reveal something deeply personal: the desire to be present and active in the lives of those we love. Yet, so many parents and grandparents feel like they are losing their ability to keep up, or worse, they believe they’re too far gone to regain their health and vitality. The truth is, it’s never too late.
Fitness Isn’t Just for You—It’s for Them
We often think of fitness as something we do for ourselves—to look better, to feel better, to live longer. But for parents and grandparents, it’s so much more than that. It’s about setting an example. Our children and grandchildren watch everything we do. When they see us prioritizing movement, choosing to take care of our bodies, and embracing an active lifestyle, it shapes their own relationship with health and fitness.
But beyond setting an example, being fit allows us to do more with them. Imagine being able to run around the backyard without getting winded, go on hikes as a family, lift your grandkids into the air without hesitation, or crawl on the floor building Legos without worrying if you’ll struggle to get back up. These are the moments that create lifelong memories. These are the moments that fitness gives us.
Overcoming the "I’m Too Far Gone" Mentality
I’ve met so many parents and grandparents who have convinced themselves they’ve let things slip too far, that they’re too out of shape to start again. Maybe they’ve put on weight, maybe their joints ache, maybe they haven’t exercised in years. But I’ve also seen those same people take the leap, walk through the doors of CrossFit Viroqua, and discover that their best years are still ahead of them.
The first step is always the hardest. But once you start moving, once you take control of your health, you realize that every step forward brings you closer to the life you want to live with your children and grandchildren. It’s not about perfection. It’s about progress—about choosing to fight for the ability to keep up with the ones we love.
My New "Why"
For years, I’ve pursued fitness because I love the way it makes me feel, the confidence it gives me, and the strength it provides. But now, my "why" is evolving. Soon, I’ll have a little one looking up at me, depending on me—not just to provide but to be there, fully engaged, fully present. I want to be the dad who can carry my child effortlessly, who can wrestle on the living room floor, who can coach their sports team, who can chase them without getting tired.
And I know I’m not alone in this. Every parent and grandparent wants the same thing—to be there for their family, to have the strength, energy, and resilience to enjoy every moment.
Take the First Step
If you’re feeling like you’re not where you want to be, if you’re worried you’re slowing down, if you’re wondering if it’s too late to get back in shape, I want you to know that you’re not alone. And more importantly, you’re not stuck.
CrossFit Viroqua is here to help you reclaim your energy, rebuild your strength, and rediscover what your body is capable of. Whether you’re a new parent trying to keep up with a toddler, a grandparent wanting to stay active with your grandkids, or just someone who wants to feel better, you can do this. And I’d love to help.
Come in, give it a try, and see what’s possible. You owe it to yourself—and to the little ones who look up to you—to be the best, healthiest version of yourself. Because every piggyback ride, every game of tag, every bike ride, and every adventure is worth it.
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