Crossfit for parents.
When my daughter Darcie was born, my life changed forever—and years later, CrossFit became a big part of how I learned to cope with that change. She has a rare, life-limiting condition called Trisomy 13. Most children with it don’t survive their first year, yet Darcie is now 7. Every day with her is a gift—and every day feels like an achievement.
Darcie cannot walk, talk, or sit up unaided, and as she’s grown, caring for her has become more physically demanding. Lifting her, carrying her, and moving her safely is a huge part of our daily life. I quickly realised that if I was going to keep giving Darcie the care she needs, I had to look after myself too. I needed to be strong—for her.
How CrossFit Entered My Life
That’s what led me to CrossFit.
That’s what led me to CrossFit.
Walking into my first class was daunting, but the welcome I received was genuine and warm. I soon discovered that CrossFit isn’t about being the fittest person in the room—it’s about showing up, doing your best, and realising how adaptable fitness can be. The coaches were patient, encouraging, and always ready to guide me, no matter my level.
If you’ve never tried it, you can learn more about CrossFit here and find a gym near you.
CrossFit for Parents: Strength for the Everyday
I started to notice the benefits almost straight away. Not only was I lifting Darcie more safely and without hurting myself, but I also felt stronger in my mind. CrossFit gave me more energy, more motivation, and a sense of resilience I hadn’t felt in a long time.
Sometimes I even see the crossover between the gym and my life with Darcie. Holding a heavy sandbag, for example, feels almost identical to the way I hold her. The training is practical—it directly helps me with the most important job I have: being her dad.
CrossFit has become more than exercise for me. It’s a lifeline. It’s helped me carry not just the physical weight of caring for Darcie, but also the emotional weight that comes with the journey we’re on together.
Why I Keep Showing Up
There are tough classes, of course. Times when halfway through, I question my sanity for being there! But I always leave feeling better—stronger, calmer, more capable. And in those moments, I remind myself why I started: for Darcie.
If you’re ever considering trying CrossFit, my advice is simple: do it. You might just find, like I did, that it gives you the strength you didn’t know you had—for the things in life that truly matter.
By Larry Crofton
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