“I was 95 kgs and clearly overweight in 2021. I was also going through an extended period of post-partum depression after the birth of my 2nd child. Being closeted at home due to lockdowns throughout the pandemic while handling all of the household chores and 2 very active & naughty children only added to the stress. I felt like I was sinking deeper into an abyss.

It was then that I decided to stop the sliding decline and take charge of the situation. I discussed with my husband and we both agreed I needed to take time out to focus on my physical and mental health – to invest in myself the same love & attention that I was providing to the needs of the other 3 folks in the house – my husband and 2 daughters. I discovered Fionis CrossFit Box, the only CrossFit affiliate in Tamil Nadu.

I joined the CrossFit session in the 5:30 AM batch as I had a 2 yr-old toddler who was in constant need of me and I wanted to finish my work-out before her day began. I always envisioned myself to be a strong and healthy person rather than being slim or skinny.

I’ve always loved weight-lifting as it showcased my strength and endorsed my physical capabilities better. My day typically started at 4 AM – Feed the baby, make her sleep, leave her father in-charge and exit the house. Zoooommm – I step into Fionis CrossFit Box.

Initially, it was very challenging for me to wake up so early and run to the Box. But as days went by, it got easier as the fire within just kept driving me. My husband and daughters were also fascinated at my determination and were drawn to joining me for the early morning workout sessions.

Eventually, all 4 of us started getting out of bed & reaching the CrossFit box by 5 AM every day. We realised that after the workout, the energy we have throughout the day gave us more power, confidence and positivity.

There was so much criticism from family & friends that we were “waking up the children too early”, “women shouldn’t lift weights”, “you can lose weight simply by doing household chores”, etc. But my husband and I stood strong amidst all that to stay on our fitness journey.

Now, I’m preparing myself to get certified in CrossFit and train, encourage & coach other women on fitness & weight-lifting. A lot of women disappear into the roles that are enforced upon them by our social structure, often missing out on truly taking care of themselves. There has to be a time where they need to spend for themselves, enjoy their body and bestow themselves with the maximum strength.

I’ve been married for nearly 14 years now & turning 40 in a few months. I still feel young and fresh. What can stop you when you can lift full gas cylinders and invert water cans with ease at home! Nothing, right?”