Kelli started nutrition and personal training in January – less than two months after completing her last round of chemo. When she first started, she was exhausted, but ready for change. Her journey began with very basic habits and within a week she had already noticed a difference in her energy levels – which is one of her biggest bright spots. It has been rewarding to watch her stack habits, gain confidence, and completely change the trajectory of her health!
Over the past 9 months, she’s dropped 31.7 lbs, 4.5% body fat, and 17.25 inches!
What has been integral to your success in working towards your health and wellness goals?
I think first it was prioritizing myself. I had said for so long that I couldn’t care for others unless I took care of me, but I wasn’t living that. It was also about gaining some momentum and confidence which is what SCF did for me. I knew I wasn’t in a mental space to do it myself after being diagnosed with breast cancer at 33. Admitting I needed help and getting it was crucial. Consistency was also key. It was so easy to do well for one day or two, but then I’d fall off. With Emily’s help, I was able to find consistency and I started to feel that spark you get with feeling better. I wanted that to continue. Consistency brought meaningful change.
What are some non-scale victories that you’ve experienced during nutrition coaching?
Not all victories are on the scale! Body composition changes are unique and even during weeks when the scale didn’t move, I saw differences in how I looked and how I felt. The greatest victory has by far been my energy levels. I had just accepted feeling lousy as normal, and once I realized how good I could feel, it made it easier to stay consistent. I’ve put my wedding rings back on. I’ve fit into jeans that I’ve been keeping in the back of my closet for years hoping I’d fit into again. I’ve traveled and spent the entire trip active rather than sedentary. I look forward to the gym. I get more done in a shorter amount of time. I’m happier. The list really goes on and on.
What advice would you give someone who is considering the nutrition program, but afraid to sign-up?
I was terrified to get started. I thought I was sort of a lost cause. But I quickly realized that no matter what state of health I was in, Emily and SCF would take it step by step with me—breaking it down, making it simple, and helping me form lasting healthy habits. I guess my advice would be to just have a conversation with Emily or Carl. You will walk away with an understanding of how to fuel your body and not feel hungry all the time. And sustain it, which is the best part! And most importantly, the SCF community is 
. Supportive, kind, fearless. Top notch humans. There’s nothing better than being surrounded by that.
Kelli’s story proves that incredible things can happen when you make time to fuel your body with adequate, whole food nutrition and incorporate strength training. Keep up the good work, Kelli! Sycamore CrossFit is both inspired by and proud of you!!