If you’ve been to our daytime classes at CrossFit Durst, chances are you’ve met Pete.

And if you haven’t yet, you probably will soon — because Pete has become one of the most consistent, hardworking and encouraging members in our gym community.

This month, we’re proud to name Pete our Member of the Month.

Starting Fitness After Retirement

Like many adults searching for a “gym near me” or wondering how to get back into shape, Pete wasn’t starting completely from scratch. He had experience with fitness earlier in life, but after years in a demanding career, some healthy habits had naturally slipped through the cracks.

When Pete retired, he made a decision that changed everything:

He decided his next hobby would be investing in his health.

Not golf.
Not sitting still.
Not slowing down.

He chose wellness.

After watching his wife train at CrossFit Durst for about a year, Pete finally decided it was time to stop watching from the sidelines and jump in himself.

Why Starting With Coaching Matters

One thing Pete understood right away was that learning proper mechanics.

That’s why he chose to begin with our on-ramp program — a personalized introduction designed specifically for beginners and anyone returning to fitness after time away.

During on-ramp, we work one-on-one with members to help them:

Learn proper lifting technique
Build confidence in the gym
Understand movement safely
Reduce injury risk
Develop a strong fitness foundation before entering group classes

Pete actually selected the package with the most one-on-one coaching sessions because he knew that the more he learned upfront, the better his long-term results would be.

And honestly? That mindset paid off.

From Beginner to Confident Athlete

After spending time working one-on-one with coaches, Pete built the confidence he needed to join regular classes.

Since then, he has accomplished some huge milestones:

His first toes-to-bar
His first CrossFit Open
Massive personal bests in his lifts
Improved strength and conditioning
Better movement quality and confidence

But the most impressive transformation hasn’t just been physical.

It’s the way Pete approaches fitness.

The Secret to Long-Term Results

If you ask Pete what works, he’ll probably tell you two things:

Time and consistency.

And we couldn’t agree more.

Real fitness results don’t happen overnight. They happen when you continue showing up, even when you’re learning, even when you’re challenged, and even when progress feels slow.

But we also think Pete’s success comes from something else:

His willingness to try new things.

Pete treats fitness like play. He’s willing to laugh, learn, struggle a little and keep going. That mindset has helped him improve faster than he probably realizes.

And honestly, we think he’s aging backwards right in front of our eyes.

Thinking About Starting Fitness? Read This.

One of the biggest misconceptions about starting at a gym or trying CrossFit Durst is thinking you need to “get in shape first.”

You don’t.

The best fitness programs meet you where you are.

Whether you’re:

Returning to fitness after years away
Nervous about joining a gym
Looking for beginner-friendly coaching
Searching for a supportive gym community
Wanting accountability and structure

…the right environment changes everything.

At CrossFit Durst, we believe coaching matters. We believe proper foundations matter. And we believe fitness should help you live better — not intimidate you.

Pete is proof that it’s never too late to start.

And who knows? A year from now, your story could inspire someone else too.

About the Author
Jacqui Veino is the owner of CrossFit Durst in Brantford, Ontario, a CrossFit Level 2 Trainer (CF-L2), and a Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coach. She specializes in helping busy adults build strength, improve their health, and stay active for life through expert coaching, nutrition, and sustainable fitness habits.