CrossFit Van Zandt gives RISE to hope, health

I am always amazed when I see a local business working hard to cover their expenses and provide for their family, yet finding the time to give back to the community.

There are many locally owned businesses in Van Zandt County that are generous with contributions of money and and time to help make the community a better place to live and work. One business recently took on a challenge to give back in a way that literally changed a handful of people’s lives forever.

In July, Van Zandt Newspapers Classified Manager Kelly Baker heard over social media about a workout program being offered at no cost by CrossFit Van Zandt.

Baker said she has struggled with health issues for a number of years. She wanted to lose a few pounds. She was out of shape and her doctors labeled her as obese.

She said she knew it was time to do something about her mental and physical condition and decided to submit her application for the CFVZ RISE program, which stands for Resilient Individuals Starting Exercise.

Participants were selected based on serious health-related problems due to their weight. The aim for the RISE Program, according to its organizers, was to prove that CrossFit is for everyone regardless of ability level and it offered participants a no-nonsense opportunity to forge their lifestyles from sickness into health.

Once applications were reviewed and participants were selected, CFZV presented their expectations. Participants agreed to the three month program at no charge as long as they attended a minimum of three workouts per week. They were allowed two excused absences and if they exceeded that number they were charged a monthly fee.

The class of 20 began their three-month journey Aug. 1. The challenge ended Oct. 30 with 17 left standing. 

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