MEMBER FEATURE: Kristi Valade ("Langhorst")
Making Space for Strength—One Midday WOD at a Time
If you've been to the 12:00 PM CrossFit class recently, chances are you've seen Kristi—and possibly her two adorable sidekicks. On maternity leave with her daughters Addison and Everly, Kristi is a regular presence at CFCL, often rolling in with a stroller, some snacks, and her signature blend of determination and honesty. “We’re hard to miss,” she laughs. “Always in the way and taking up too much space… sorry everybody!”
But in truth, Kristi's presence at the gym is a powerful example of showing up in the middle of it all—not after life settles, but while life is happening.
From Nervous to Empowered
Kristi first found CrossFit while researching local gyms and came across StrongFit YXE (now CFCL). “It looked like a real community, somewhere accepting that would meet me where I was at,” she says. Signing up for the Foundations program was a game-changer—it gave her a starting point, not just physically but mentally.
“I was in the worst shape I had ever let myself get into. I was nervous and intimidated. But everyone was kind and patient. They encouraged me and made me feel like I belonged.”
Over time, Kristi started to return that same kindness to herself. “It taught me to be patient with myself—that just showing up means there’s always a place for me.”
A Shift in Perspective
Like many, Kristi used to associate fitness with weight loss and strict routines. “I’d start intense plans, fall off within a week, and repeat the cycle for months with no results.”
But CrossFit changed that. “It’s no longer about what I look like—it’s about function and strength. I’m motivated by being competitive with myself, seeing progress, and building something that lasts.”
That mindset became especially important postpartum. “After having kids, I had to heal my body. I started to view fitness as a way to be present and keep up with them. I want to do the things they do—and enjoy it.”
Favorite Movements & Mental Battles
Kristi’s favorite movements? “Rowing and barbell cycling—I really enjoy those.” Her biggest challenge, though, is internal: “Trusting myself. Pushing past mental blocks and believing I can go heavier is something I still work on.”
But she’s showing up, building confidence, and making steady progress—right in front of her kids. “Being a role model for my two daughters has become a big motivator. I love that they’ve been able to come with me and be exposed to such a great environment. They think it’s normal to see people doing amazing things with their bodies. And they feel comfortable in a space that many find intimidating.”
Community, Connection, and Midday Sanity
Maternity leave has its beautiful moments—and its isolating ones. For Kristi, CrossFit has offered more than just a workout. “It’s nice to have some space in the day that’s just for me—where I get to see other adults and feel part of something.”
She especially appreciates the family feel of the gym. “Jason is such a knowledgeable coach and keeps things fun, but you also feel like you're truly part of a community.”
Structure, Podcasts & Five-Factor Living
Staying consistent isn’t easy—but Kristi relies on structure. “I sign up for the classes I want to attend and treat it like an appointment. It’s in the calendar—part of the day.”
She also credits CrossFit CL’s philosophy with shaping more than just her workouts. “The Five Factors (Eat, Sleep, Move, Think, Connect) play a huge role in my life. During COVID, Jason wrote a blog post and mentioned Ben Bergeron. I started listening to the Chasing Excellence podcast and I’ve been hooked ever since.”
She keeps that mindset front and center:
Eat – real food, not too much, mostly plants
Sleep – 8–9 hours a night
Move – train 5–6 days a week
Think – no whining, no complaining, no excuses
Connect – with yourself, others, and nature
“I don’t do it perfectly—but this is the template I strive toward.”
Looking Ahead
Right now, Kristi’s goals are about rebuilding strength, showing up consistently, and staying connected to herself and her community. And if you’re new or feeling uncertain? She’s got some advice:
“It might seem intimidating at first, but stick with it! Remind yourself that every movement can be modified to work for you. Just keep showing up.”