Meet Michelle Miller from Fishtown!
Building strength after a stroke can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure where to begin. For Michelle Miller, recovering from a stroke meant rebuilding not only her physical strength but also her confidence. Through CrossFit Renaissance’s RenFit strength and conditioning program, coaches Jennifer Adams and Lisa Madera helped her where she was in her recovery, tailoring each workout to help her safely rebuild strength, confidence, and independence after her stroke.
Before joining CrossFit Renaissance, Michelle struggled to stay motivated working out on her own. Like many people, it wasn’t about knowing how to exercise; it was about finding the consistency to keep showing up.
She also faced a challenge that made starting even more intimidating. After suffering a stroke, she experienced paralysis on the right side of her body, affecting her strength, balance, and coordination. She worried she wouldn’t be able to keep up with the workouts or that she might get hurt.
How it all started
One day her son’s soccer team participated in one of our CrossFit youth classes! After seeing her son participate and enjoy CrossFit classes she decided to talk to Coach Jess, whose son is on the same soccer team! That’s when Coach Jess mentioned RenFit, and luckily the program had a spot open! From her very first class, coaches Jennifer Adams and Lisa Madera worked closely with Michelle, modifying movements and adapting each workout to fit her abilities. Instead of expecting her to keep up with everyone else, they created a program to help her build strength at her own pace.
Building strength after a stroke, one workout at a time
Michelle is part of the RenFit group: perfect for women looking to build strength at any age! Michelle has noticed big changes since she first started.
“I’ve gained a lot of strength since my first day. I’ve noticed weight loss in my thighs and stomach, and have gained muscle!!” and
“I have gained a lot of strength in my right arm, which is significantly weaker due to a stroke. I’m very excited about how much strength and balance I have gained.”
With the guidance of coaches Jennifer Adams and Lisa Madera, Michelle was able to safely build strength and confidence in every class. They tailored each workout to meet her where she was, modifying movements to accommodate the physical limitations she experienced after her stroke while continuing to challenge her as she progressed. By her sixth month at CrossFit Renaissance, she began to notice strength returning to her right arm; a milestone that reflects both her dedication and the personalized support of her coaches.
More than just physical Changes
CrossFit not only improved Michelle’s physical body but also made it easier for her to move around, reduced the stress in her life, and restored some of the confidence she had lost. With the stress relief, Michelle has found herself more engaged. In addition, she discovered an unexpected benefit of joining CrossFit – a supportive community of people who are always there to help keep her going.
One of Michelle’s favorite parts of CrossFit Renaissance is the positive environment. Being surrounded by coaches and members who encourage one another has made a tremendous difference in her journey and continues to inspire her every time she walks through the doors.
Looking Ahead
Looking ahead, Michelle is focused on continuing to get stronger and maintaining the healthy habits she’s built.
“This journey has helped me regain confidence in myself and shown me that progress is possible with consistency and support. I’m proud of how far I’ve come and motivated to keep improving.”
Michelle’s Advice for New Members
Michelle’s advice to new members who are maybe feeling stuck, worried to start, or just started taking classes is:
“Stick with it” “What was holding me back was, motivation to work out on my own, once I became a member at CFR I felt motivated to come to the gym and be a part of the group!!”
If you’re working toward strength after a stroke or overcoming another physical challenge, CrossFit Renaissance can help you take that first step. Or inspired by Michelle’s story? Want to build strength but worried about where to start? Book a free intro to learn more and experience CrossFit Renaissance!
Want to read more stories about our amazing members? Check out our Member Stories tab in our blog page, and you may find a story like your own!
