‘Super Mum’ Cathy Wilson

Crossfit  Leyland member Cathy Wilson doesn’t exactly fit into the ‘normal ‘ mum category, she’s more of a ‘super mum’! Cathy is currently one of the top CrossFit masters athletes in the country and is hoping to make a run at the CrossFit Games next year, a competition reserved for the fittest athletes on the planet.

There are many good reasons why people walk through the doors of their local ‘box’ for the first time; to let off a bit of steam,  meet new friends, have fun, improve health, fitness and body shape. Whatever the reasons though, every time you are greeted by the white board one thing is for sure …. you are in competition with yourself, to push yourself mentally and physically to improve. For some CrossFitters, the element of competition is what drives them to succeed and some take the next step to compete in local competitions against other athletes. In Cathy’s case, she has progressed even further by competing in some of the top competitions in the UK and Europe. It’s hard not to take inspiration from someone as dedicated to her training regime and self-improvement as Cathy.

We caught up with her to ask a few questions about why she chose CrossFit.

What are the reasons you do CrossFit?

I do CrossFit because I love how it makes me feel both physically and mentally. It’s a great community to be part of, no matter where you go you will always feel welcomed in a CrossFit gym and that community is present every time you train in the camaraderie as everyone is doing the same hard work you are and will support you all the way.

Why do you think it is important to exercise as a mother?

Exercise is essential as a mother whether you are a new mum, or have teenagers. It will give you confidence and equip you to deal with daily stresses both mentally and physically.

If you ask a mum what she wants for her children, most would say to be happy and healthy. A simple thing a mum can do is lead by example. Show them it is good to exercise and eat well.

Super Mum + Team Wilson

What are the benefits of CrossFit to a busy mum?

As a mum of 4, I wish I’d found CrossFit sooner….

The main benefit is an increase in energy, which if you have a baby or young children you really need. But even with teens it will enable you to be more involved with them as you’ll be ‘physically’ able. New mums often find they lose their identity, your body has changed post-natal, you are dealing with a lot of emotional issues. Doing CrossFit will support the recovery of your body through strength and conditioning. I am in better shape now than I was 10 years ago, and I have never been as fit. CrossFit also allows you to do something for you, have time to escape (and that doesn’t mean you are a bad mum wanting to escape..its normal) it will make you feel good emotionally, you had time to de-stress, it will actually make you a better mum as you will feel more confident and calmer.

For me, I couldn’t keep up with all the things my children want me to do if I didn’t CrossFit. I can run after them, pick them up (and the shopping), go on the trampoline with them.

What would you say to other mums who are thinking of starting CrossFit?

Do it…..

CrossFit will change your life for the better, you will feel fitter, stronger. With sensible eating (not dieting) your body will tone up and weight will settle for what’s right for you and your lifestyle. Your confidence will increase when you see how your body changes and what it is actually capable of and emotionally you’ll feel stronger too.

Most CrossFit gyms have classes to fit with your family life, you’ll meet new friends and be part of the CrossFit community.

The main thing is don’t be afraid of it, it’s not scary, it’s not full of bulky body builders and you won’t ever be made to feel like you can’t do something, as a good CrossFit fit gym will scale the workouts until you can.

CrossFit Leyland runs a daily 9:30am class for after the school run, what are you waiting for!?