Sports Spotlight - Windermere Observer: Jimmy Doyle

What’s the story behind you joining WinStrong CrossFit?

I started out in Hawaii. I used to be 320 pounds and decided I needed to do something about it. My wife and I both had gastric bypass surgery, and after three months of recovering, I hired someone who was a CrossFit instructor. She took me from being able to do nothing to lifting 330 pounds. While I was there, I got hurt. I tore my shoulder and moved here in the process right after my surgery. I was here for six months before I could start doing CrossFit again. 

How much weight did you lose since joining this gym?

About 20 pounds. I lost more initially, and then when I got hurt I gained some back. 

Why does CrossFit work for you?

I’ve worked out a lot in my life. It’s always been like a competition and not really supporting each other. In CrossFit, it’s not like that. It’s more like a family, supporting each other in a friendly competition. 

What did you expect when you came back to CrossFit after surgery?

I ended therapy on a Friday and showed up here on a Monday. It was more uncertainty of would I still be able to do anything. That was my main concern. But it was awesome because they take care of you. 

What was the hardest thing about the training when you started?

Pull ups. It took me forever to do pull ups. The worst part is, that’s how I injured my arm. 

How important have your coaches been in your wellness?

Their main role is your safety and making sure you do the movements right, and that you’re not going to hurt yourself. But they can do it too. The encouragement is amazing. 

Who has been your biggest cheerleader throughout the process?

My wife, Tracy Doyle. She just wants me to be better, to be healthy. She can’t stand CrossFit but she really wants me to do it because it makes me happy and healthy. 

What are some misconceptions of CrossFit?

That it’s bad for you. Bad CrossFit is bad for you, but good CrossFit is not. It’s all on the trainer that you have. I’ve been very blessed to have had the trainer I had in Hawaii and the trainers I have here that are such great people that are worried about me doing it right and starting from the very basics. I’ve not had the experience of the “bad.”