MEMBER FEATURE: Kade and Brittany
Before CFCL became the official community we know today, Kade and Brittany were already at its heart—sharing experiences, embracing challenges, and growing together. Their inspiring journeys blend personal growth, adventure, and the deep connections that define CFCL. Today, we’re excited to share their stories, favorite moments, and how fitness, fun, and friendship have intertwined their lives.
Early Beginnings: Building a Community
Kade and Brittany have been pillars of our community since its inception. Their individual milestones and shared experiences have forged lasting memories, overcome obstacles, and celebrated triumphs—big and small—forming the foundation of what CFCL is today.
Their CrossFit Journey
Kade vividly recalls the moment his CrossFit journey began:
“I remember when Brittany went for a 5km run, and I thought, ‘Oh, I could do that.’ I tried, ended up with cramped legs, and almost needed a cab home.”
Despite some humorous, humble beginnings (including a pair of less-than-flattering board shorts), Brittany’s introduction to CrossFit—sparked by her sister Ashley—set things in motion. “We met Jason and Val, experimented with different workouts, and eventually found our rhythm,” Kade adds. From running and acro yoga to a serendipitous encounter during a houseboat trip that led them to a new gym, their quest for fitness soon became a space where relationships flourished and lifelong friendships were born.
Embracing Movement
Both Kade and Brittany have discovered their own ways to celebrate movement:
Brittany delights in gymnastics-inspired routines, saying, “I’m not very good at them, but it feels like an excuse to just play around like a kid!”
Kade loves the challenge of overhead squats, appreciating how each rep pushes him to improve.
Evolving Connection with CFCL
For Brittany, CFCL is more than a gym—it’s a sanctuary for connection, growth, and healing. Her journey here has been shaped by:
Connection: “The gym began as a place for Kade and I to reconnect, creating a space where we could truly spend time together.”
Building Confidence: Once someone who never saw herself as athletic, Brittany found a supportive environment to explore fitness on her own terms, guided by experienced coaches.
Community: CFCL’s welcoming, laid-back atmosphere made it easy to forge meaningful connections with fellow gym mates, regardless of fitness level.
Mental Health: After an injury shifted her focus from competitive fitness, the gym’s attentive coaching and safe workout spaces supported both her physical recovery and mental well-being.
Adaptability: “CFCL’s flexibility, diversity, and experienced coaching have provided a space that adapts to my evolving needs throughout life’s many changes.”
A Peek into Their Worlds Outside the Gym
Weekends with Crew
Kade cherishes his weekends with Crew. “Getting up with Crew and having a cup of coffee while I play and explore has become a cherished ritual. Mornings, once spent simply watching, are now filled with the joy of chasing a little buddy who keeps me on my toes.”
Celebrating Traditions
Christmas holds a special place in Kade’s heart. He fondly recalls blending family customs with new traditions:
Setting up the Christmas tree
Enjoying a rum and eggnog (or three)
Baking llama sugar cookies—a nod to his childhood memories of raising llamas on the farm
Even trying pickled pigs’ feet, just because Brittany loves them!
This year, with Crew joining in the festivities, they’re excited to create new traditions while honoring the old.
Adventures in Hobbies
For Kade, hobbies are synonymous with adventure. Whether it’s the thrill of snowboarding down a mountain or the challenge and camaraderie of mountain biking—complete with beers shared at the summit—each pursuit adds excitement to his life.
A Heart for Animals
Llamas have always held a special place in Kade’s heart. “We raised llamas on our farm when I was younger—at our peak, we had about a hundred llamas and alpacas. I spent countless hours caring for them, even in -30 weather.” Brittany’s creativity shines in naming, as seen with “Cinnamon Boots,” a llama distinguished by its brown fur patches. Their adventures even led to quirky culinary experiences, like when Brittany tried an alpaca burger in Peru.
Looking Ahead: A Shared Future
Kade, Brittany, and now Crew remain at the very core of the CFCL community. Their journeys—steeped in adventure, tradition, and genuine connection—remind us why we come together: to inspire, to grow, and to celebrate life’s moments. As we look to the future, we eagerly anticipate the new adventures, challenges, and triumphs that lie ahead.
Thank you, Kade and Brittany, for sharing your incredible stories. Your journey is an inspiration, and we can’t wait to see what comes next!