In the February 2026 edition of DoD Dialogues, we sit down with longtime members Rick and Carla to talk about CrossFit after 50, sharing their journey from little to no athletic background to consistent, long-term fitness. They give an honest look at what it takes to stay healthy, strong, and motivated as busy professionals and as a couple.

We dive deep into topics like injury recovery, longevity, and maintaining consistency, highlighting how CrossFit can support both physical and mental health over time. Rick and Carla share the real challenges and victories of training through injuries, building strength, and improving health markers like blood work and overall fitness.

In this interview, we cover practical insights and strategies that anyone can use:

    • How to start CrossFit with no prior sports experience
    • Scaling workouts and modifying for injuries or limitations
    • Maintaining consistency as busy professionals
    • Mental health benefits of group training and community support
    • Using fitness to improve daily life, travel, and long-term mobility

We close the episode by reflecting on what it really means to stay active after 50, how to set realistic goals, and why showing up consistently, sometimes even in small ways, can have massive long-term results.

In the January 2026 edition of DOD Dialogues, we kick off the new year by talking about what makes the CrossFit Open such a powerful experience, whether you are a seasoned athlete or brand new to CrossFit. We break down why the Open matters, how it builds community, and how it serves as an annual “fitness checkup” to measure progress beyond the leaderboard.

We also dive deep into training plateaus, especially for athletes who train consistently but feel stuck. We discuss scaling versus intensity, mindset shifts, recovery, and how to keep progressing long term without burnout.

From there, we answer common questions from the gym community:

    • How CrossFit uses different energy systems

    • Why CrossFit is often considered a glucose-based activity

    • How to fuel workouts with carbohydrates, protein, and recovery nutrition

    • Managing fatigue, inflammation, and energy levels

    • What really impacts metabolism (and what does not)

We close the episode by addressing perimenopause and menopause, including how hormonal changes affect training, weight, stamina, and recovery, and why strength training and CrossFit remain essential tools for health, longevity, and confidence at every stage of life.

This episode is designed to encourage, educate, and equip athletes of all levels as we head into a new year of training.

Links/Resources:

Varied, Not Random Podcast: Episode #243 with EC Synkowski “Menopause, Training & Misinformation” https://youtu.be/dxLhm0Fo6ng?si=Lod-IS6fVjKcIfNc

Episode 1 of DoD Dialogues.  Jim and Courtney introduce themselves, explain the purpose and goals of the podcast, and answer several member questions about CrossFit, fitness, nutrition, and overall health and wellness.