SUCCESS STORIES
Rachael 37
What would you say to people who say they are not fit enough for Celtic CrossFit?
We are all very good at making excuses but come try a taster session or watch a class. You will soon see that there are all abilities and people at every stage of fitness working hard and challenging themselves to improve. Every exercise is scalable to suit and if you put the effort in you will definitely see the rewards.
Why did you start Celtic CrossFit?
I started Crossfit at a difficult point in my life and was looking for a new challenge and focus to help me move forward. I knew a couple of members who could only say positive things about the coaches, methods and setup and this sold me on the idea and 4 years later, I'm still there loving every session.
Full of shirtless grunting shouting 'athletes'?
The only shouting is each and every coach and member encouraging each other through the workouts and this is what is so unique and inspiring about Crossfit. Trust me you'll love it and it will spur you on to surpass all your targets.
Sometimes the odd shirt will come off mid workout ? but don't worry it's not a requirement.
Crossfit is too expensive?
At first glance it does seem expensive but ask yourself this :- how much do you pay for Sky Tv per month? how much do you spend on beer or wine on a night out? Etc
I'm not saying stop these things but Crossfit is a lifestyle choice where the aim is to be fitter and healthier! For this the cost is a bargain. I save more money than I pay out per month by eating healthier! Tips I picked up through Crossfit.
What difference have u seen since starting?
I thought I was quite fit when I started, having been a regular gym user and previously done a lot of martial arts training. However now at 43 I am in the best shape of my life. I am exactly the same weight in all my pictures below at 73kg but my body shape is vastly different, and I have dropped over 7% body fat , while gaining muscle mass. The top left picture was 12 months ago the others this week ?.
Probably most importantly I feel healthier, both physically and mentally ??.
What are you enjoying most?
I enjoy the challenge of being the best I can be. Also i enjoy passing on my knowledge and experience and helping others where I can. I have made so many new friends at Celtic Crossfit through the community spirit which is second to none. I also enjoy my greatly improved self confidence and people skills which I have gained since joining.
I've often said that joining Celtic Crossfit is the best fitness decision you will ever make.
Maria Charley Age- 29
Occupation- Solicitor

Occupation: Technical Consultant
What would you say to people who say not fit enough to train at Celtic CrossFit?
All the work outs are scalable (adapted to the different people in the class) you do what you can when you first start, take an active note of the weight you are using, and you build on that progressively each week.
Monitor your progress over a few months and set yourself goals! Self motivation is key and if you want it ....you ....get earning those gains. Everyone can do Crossfit!!
People who are Worried that lifting weight will make them bulky?
Strong is sexy , it actually makes you smaller because muscle weighs less than fat. So you look better as a result.
CrossFit is Full of shirtless grunting shouting 'athletes'?
It's just normal people training to get fitter. We all love to encourage people to get pbs (personal bests) It's a friendly encouraging atmosphere not a horrible one.
Celtic Crossfit is too expensive?
It's a lot of money to pay a month compared to a normal gym but the return is priceless. Amazing coaches, great people and the increase in health and fitness is second to none.
What difference have u seen since starting?
I've lost two stone in a year! I'm still working hard to get to my goal weight which I'm hoping to hit next February , I'm not really hard core dieting I'm changing my life style training as much as I can but eating well. I can't crash diet because I end up eating more rubbish when I'm hungry! I would definately say Crossfit is a game changer!!
What are you enjoying most?
The best thing about Crossfit is every day it's something different , no two wods (workouts) are the same! We are constantly working hard as a group of people and everyone in the box (gym) makes each session great!!
Why Celtic CrossFit?
During July 2015 having turned 40 I decided that I really should improve my overall fitness before I became a complete couch potato. Previously I typically went to a leisure centre gym approx. three times per week and saw little improvement and received very little guidance.
A friend recommended Crossfit as an alternative, instantly I thought I am not the type to take part in fitness based classes but thought I have nothing to lose so give it ago at least. After talking to Ceri about taking part I arrived to do on-ramp classes and instantly realised there was a lot more to this than meets the eye, people of all ages shapes and sizes working hard together and the box was” not full of superhero’s” but a community of likeminded people.
My first class felt pretty intimidating walking into a new environment but this was quickly settled with people introducing themselves and training with me right from day one.
I’ve seen huge changes in my body shape and fitness, I train approx. 5 times per week now, not just for the fitness but also to socialise with the many new friends I have made. I have also cleaned up my diet considerably, in the week I eat clean and low carb. At the week end I eat and drink what I like so that I do not fail in the week, this seems to work for me.
Is Celtic Crossfit too expensive?
It’s not the cheapest sport or pass time but pound for pound it has to be one of the most valuable. I receive constant guidance and advice through the coaches, my training plans are worked out for me and I can go as little or as often as I decide, all I need to do is turn up, work hard, oh and have a bit of fun on the way.
I had a few family members and friends that were members of Celtic crossfit, and had seen the results they were gaining. Although I had been using the gym my results were no where near the same as theirs, so after a few months of recommendations I thought I would give it a go...
I get a guaranteed good workout, educated on Olympic lifts and cardio, the right advice every session, use of good equipment and access to a great community!
...My noticeable differences are fitness levels, I can run further and lift more than ever! I've lost 3 stone in weight and more feel more confident in myself.

Name - Dave Vigar
Age - 35
Occupation - Newport international Sports Village
What would you say to people who say not fit enough to Celtic Crossfit?
Everyone has to start somewhere and that if you think like that you’ll never start.
All the members here train to their own levels of fitness and abilities, but working together we are able achieve new goals and levels which we originally thought impossible I.e. run 1 mile or complete a handstand press-up.
Crossfit will make you fit, all you need is the right attitude and desire to change yourself..... It is for everyone!
Why did you start Celtic Crossfit?
After training in various gyms just doing the usual weights and the odd bit of cardio and thinking that my strength and fitness were doing well, I was introduced to Crossfit though a friend. After the 1st session I was hooked, and looking forward going back (even with serious DOMS) and realising that I wasn’t as fit as I first thought. What took me back was the friendly atmosphere and my aim to improve my abilities and achieve new goals.
Full of shirtless grunting shouting 'athletes'?
The only noises you’ll here are the sounds of had wok and encouragement, which helps loads when you think you cant carry on and complete the workout or max out a lift
Crossfit is too expensive?
Compared to regular gyms and budget gyms it is expensive, however you receive quality coaching every session and everything is programmed for you, so all you have to do is turn up and have fun.
What difference have u seen since starting?
Since stating Crossfit I have seen my strength and fitness levels go up and my body shape change. It gave me a new found confidence in life and makes me feel good about myself. My diet has improved (can be slightly better lol) and has helped me achieve my goals. Have also made some great friends while being at Celtic Crossfit.
What are you enjoying the most?
I’m enjoying constantly varied programme, no session is the same, the results from this are seen at everyday Celtic Crossfit sessions, with all members constantly improving in all aspects of fitness and life!
The community here at Celtic Crossfit plays a big part in making fitness fun, as there are many different events that we take part in I.e. ½ marathon’s, tough mudders, triathlons and Crossfit competitions, each of these events are well supported by fellow members.

Name: Louise Batty
What would you say to people who say not fit enough to Celtic CrossFit?
I thought I was fit – but coming to Celtic CrossFit does wonders for your all round fitness. I ache in ways I didn’t think I could, my body is being challenged in a way no other sport can! After my first month at the box I realised how quickly my fitness had progressed and I ditched the scales and started focusing on strength – fitness isn’t a part your decision to be part of Celtic CrossFit just the desire to change who you are.
Why did you start Celtic CrossFit?
I came to the box after a huge decision to stop the lifestyle I was leading and actually DO something about it instead of procrastinating every Sunday night! After a round of “Lean in 15” and home exercise I had hit a plateau and although I was on the road to getting in shape, I was struggling through lack of support. I had always want to try weightlifting and had been recommended to try CrossFit since I enjoyed the short explosive work outs at home (Joe Wicks and Shaun T were no longer doing it for me!). I wanted to be good at something again and compete, I wanted to be part of a team and community environment where I would thrive – Celtic CrossFit does all of that!!
Full of shirtless grunting shouting 'athletes'?
No way – full of genuine people all working together, shouting - yes but that’s the support you get to finish the WODS – shirt or no shirt!
CrossFit is too expensive?
Not compared to what I paid for the gym in London! Worth every single penny – the coaching support is amazing and I can honestly say I have never walked into a “boring” gym and felt so welcomed – you get what you pay for J
What difference have u seen since starting?
My journey at Celtic CrossFit has been amazing! I am happily sharing my “fat underwear” picture to show everyone you can change your body shape so dramatically. I am not sure what I weighed in my “after” picture (and don’t care) – I loved the way I looked. I was intrigued at my progress and few weeks ago at 8 months pregnant I took the same picture - I am amazed at how strong I look. CrossFit is the most scalable sport you can do while pregnant and the benefits during my second pregnancy never ceases to amaze me. Burpees become box steps and presses, weight is decreased or modified and I am still finding I am achieving new goals. I have no back problems, no hip issues and mostly I feel so strong! I am still attending classes with just 2 weeks to go and cannot wait to show the new addition how strong his Mama is and introduce him to the Celtic CrossFit community.
What are you enjoying most?
The whole experience – I am absolutely loving CrossFit. As regular at Dawn Patrol I can honestly say there has not been one morning when I haven’t wanted to get up. I look forward to the box, classes and the community – it’s like being part of the best sports team EVER!