Testimonial

As a full-time farmer, I always assumed, quite arrogantly, that my job was naturally a healthy one. But upon reflection, is that really the case? Looking around me, I see elderly folks and peers who appear to be in good shape. However, most of them complain about physical issues, saying things like, “I can’t lift my shoulder,” “My shins hurt,” or “My back is killing me.” I, too, have struggled for years with high blood pressure, obesity, and elevated uric acid levels. My health metrics were far from ideal, and I was living a life dependent on medication. Despite being physically active through farming, going to bed early, waking up early, eating heartily, and enjoying alcohol, I convinced myself, “This is fine.”

I occasionally watched YouTube health videos and did some exercises on my own. I even managed to lose some weight. But one day, while training by myself, I injured my shoulder. That’s when I realized: I was overconfident. Around that time, I came across “CrossFit Ōtoyo” for the first time. “What’s CrossFit?” I wondered. “And in such a rural area, no less?” Curious, I decided to check it out, only to find a modern and almost surreal space nestled in the countryside.

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When I casually inquired about it, they mentioned a two-week trial, so I hesitantly stepped through their doors. Hidden in Toyonaga, there was a facility the size of a school gymnasium, packed with equipment I had never seen before. I was welcomed by Violet and, without really understanding what I was getting into, joined a one-hour class. The session started with exercises to loosen up my joints, but it quickly became apparent that my body had significantly regressed. I struggled with even basic movements, to the point that I felt embarrassed. Next to me, older participants moved with ease, in stark contrast to my clumsy efforts. For instance, I couldn’t balance on my left leg, and when moving sideways, my right side bent smoothly while my left side barely moved at all. It was a series of constant, “Ouch! Ouch!” moments.

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As I continued with the trial sessions, I gradually realized how little control I had over my body in daily life. In particular, I wasn’t using my body in a balanced way, which had resulted in a warped posture—essentially, a hunched back. A hunched posture not only makes movement unnatural but also doesn’t look good. Nowadays, I’m consciously trying to straighten my back in daily life, and I feel like I’m making progress.

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Then came the core essence of CrossFit: intense workouts. I quickly found myself out of breath, but the coaches carefully corrected my mistakes, ensuring I didn’t injure myself or overdo it. They tailored the workouts to match my fitness level, which left me with a satisfying muscle ache rather than pain. By building a solid foundation of knowledge and practice, I gradually began to enjoy things like lifting weights, working on the pull-up bar, and performing other exercises I never imagined I’d be able to do. These achievements weren’t about brute strength; they required technique and skill, which I found immensely rewarding. Most importantly, the classes are held in groups. While I can’t match the performance of others, the warm encouragement I received from fellow participants gave me a sense of accomplishment that I couldn’t have achieved on my own. Being completely exhausted has never been so much fun.

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After completing the two-week trial, I officially joined. Going to the gym is now an integral part of my life. From here on, I want to expand my knowledge about nutrition and learn more about my body. As I continue to attend classes, I aim to foster a healthy lifestyle free from injuries, with a focus on proper posture, flexibility, and muscle use. Yes, CrossFit Ōtoyo requires both time and money, but I believe it’s worth it. After all, in farming, your body is your most important asset. Looking ahead, I feel hopeful about aging and what lies ahead for me.

 

I’m deeply grateful to CrossFit Ōtoyo for providing such an invaluable experience in this rural setting.

Here’s to a healthy body, delicious beer, and a toast to a bountiful harvest!