Train for life: Carson City CrossFit to offer sober-living program
For those in Carson City struggling with addiction, a new type of help is on the horizon: Carson City CrossFit has recently partnered with "The Phoenix" to support those wishing to lead a sober lifestyle.
The Phoenix is a nonprofit organization that helps people in their journey to sobriety and healthy living through fitness.
Founded in 2006 by Scott Strode and a core group of CrossFit members, The Phoenix was created for members to be able to engage in a safe, sober active community that supports each other on their journey to recovery.
"I felt that helping the sober community live an active and healthy lifestyle is something that hasn't been in our community yet, and supporting those who are willing to change their life is part of our mission," said Jill Larson of Carson City CrossFit.
Since 2006 The Phoenix has helped more than 104,297 people around the U.S. and abroad with in-person classes and online programs. The Phoenix offers classes from yoga to boxing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and book clubs. Whether you're 10 years sober or just starting down the path to recovery, The Phoenix is a welcoming place. Its members and staff not only understand what you're going through but are here to give the support to help you take the first step to sober and healthy living through fitness.
Eleven years ago, Lief Larson obtained his CrossFit Level one certificate.
With support from Jill, they decided to leave South Lake Tahoe and follow their dream of opening Carson City's first CrossFit gym.
"CrossFit has changed my life, and I wanted to share this with my community," said Lief. "So I created a space for those willing to come in and work on their health goals, and seeing that transformation is an inspiration for me to continue keeping this space open for my community."
This Thursday at 6:30 p.m., Carson City CrossFit will host its first Phoenix class. All incoming Phoenix participants are required to register with the Phoenix each week to reserve their spot in class. CCCF will reserve six open spots and be on a first-come, first-serve basis for registration. The only requirement to join a Phoenix class is 48 hours of sobriety.
You can visit The Phoenix website for more information about the program and other classes they offer.
Over the July 15 weekend, Lief and other members from his gym took part in the Tahoe Rim Trail 55k Ultra for the first time, which includes over 8,000 feet of elevation.
Jill cheered for her team during the event.
"I was delighted to see three of our coaches (ages 23 - 55) lead by example by using their fitness at any age level," said Jill.
Lief stated this was one of the most challenging events he had participated in, but he completed the race with lots of training through CrossFit. The Tahoe Rim Trail 55k Ultra is one of many events in which Leif and his members participate outside the gym.
In spring this year, Carson City CrossFit also began the CrossFit Kids program for ages 5 to middle school. These classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays with middle school kids at 3:30 p.m. and elementary kids at 4:30 p.m. Kids learn how to challenge themselves through proper mechanics and consistency in a safe, supportive, structured, and fun environment.
Over the years, Carson City CrossFit has held many events, programs, fundraisers, and weekly challenges that have helped its community.
"Our mission in our community is to train for life by providing health, wellness, and performance by offering a world-class facility and top-level coaching for every age," said Jill.
For more information about any of their classes and programs, you can email Lief Larson at lief@carsoncitycrossfit.com
Carson City CrossFit is holding a variety of programs and events for the upcoming months, including:
- Endurance track (including running programs)
- Bodybuilding
- Endurance spin
- Strong Man
- Olympic Weightlifting
- CrossFit Level One
- New Kids in the Box
- In-house Services: Hot and Cold therapy, sports recovery massage.
CCCF is seeking several volunteers to help launch their first class with the Phoenix; if you are interested in volunteering, please email Charlene at cchandler@thephoenix.org.