Rediscovered. Perhaps not what Krysten Dimitropoulos was expecting when she first stepped into CrossFit Outlaw North in September 2024 for the Dumbbells & Diapers program.
Krysten was at a crossroads. Having just welcomed her second child, Luuk, into the world, Krysten faced not only the usual postpartum challenges but also dealt with significant health complications, including gestational hypertension and postpartum pre-eclampsia. She found herself physically exhausted, mentally drained, and isolated—especially with her partner working away for long stretches.
“I wanted to do something for myself this maternity leave,” Krysten remembers, “something to break the isolation I felt after having my daughter during COVID.”
Her first impressions were a mix of intimidation and nerves. Watching others tackle workouts that seemed impossible made her question her decision. However, Krysten quickly realized that Outlaw was different. She wasn’t alone. Coaches and fellow members warmly welcomed her, showed her how exercises could be scaled to her level, and assured her that she belonged there.
“I started realizing I could actually do this,” she says. “There were other moms right there with me, facing the same struggles, cheering each other on.”
The supportive environment at Outlaw ignited a transformation in Krysten. Week after week, she found her strength, energy, and confidence growing. Achievements she once deemed impossible started becoming reality. One particular milestone vividly stands out—climbing halfway up a rope for the first time in her life.
“When I started, I could barely hold my body weight on the rope,” Krysten recalls. “Climbing halfway up was surreal. It showed me how far I had come and how much more was possible.”
Outside of the gym, Krysten’s life began changing dramatically. Her newfound strength and endurance enabled her to actively play soccer and tag with her 4-year-old daughter without quickly running out of breath. Lugging her energetic 25-pound son around became manageable rather than exhausting.
Emotionally, Krysten started feeling like herself again—reconnecting socially, picking up old hobbies like guitar playing, and embracing time for herself without guilt. Inspired by coach Jay’s advice to treat important activities as “appointments,” Krysten made her self-care a non-negotiable priority.
A pivotal health victory also came when Krysten’s maternal medicine specialist at McMaster cleared her to discontinue blood pressure medication—crediting her consistency and dedication at Outlaw as key factors in her improved health.
Another remarkable personal best was achieved in her lifting capabilities. Previously afraid of injury and unsure of proper technique, Krysten had never confidently lifted heavy weights. With guidance from caring, attentive coaches at Outlaw, she confidently surpassed her expectations, lifting over 200 pounds—more than her own body weight.
“Never in my wildest dreams did I think I could ever lift that much,” Krysten beams proudly.
Reflecting on her journey, Krysten emphasizes one key piece of advice to anyone feeling hesitant or stuck as she once did:
“Just do it. Even on days when you’re not feeling your best, push yourself to show up. You’ll never regret it.”
Krysten’s story is a testament to the transformative power of community, consistency, and courage. At CrossFit Outlaw North, she didn’t just find a gym—she rediscovered herself.
Get more details on our upcoming post-natal program here:
https://crossfitoutlawnorth.gymleadmachine.com/dumbbells-diapers