Member Spotlight: Edward Dorsey

‍When and why did you join Junction Fitness?

I joined junction fitness back in January. I work as a travel contract radtech at different hospitals across the country. I had tried CrossFit during one of my terms while in Minnesota and instantly fell in love. I decided this workout methodology was a part of my fitness journey I wanted to continue. So once I made it to Temple, the first thing I wanted to do was find a CrossFit gym, and that’s how I came across Junction fitness.

What is your favorite thing about Junction Fitness?

My favorite thing about Junction Fitness is the versatility of classes offered with both CrossFit and X⁴. And it doesn’t hurt that the staff here is pretty awesome too!

What do you like about the different class offerings (CrossFit and X⁴) at Junction Fitness?

I like the fact that both CrossFit and X⁴ consistently challenge you in different ways. The CrossFit workouts mainly focus on lifting and gymnastic style workouts, while X⁴ is a nonstop cardio grind from start to finish. You never know what you’re going to get from either, but one thing for sure is you’ll never be disappointed.

What class do you typically go to / do you stick to a routine? For example, if you go to a specific class each day, what do you like about it? Why do you consistently go to that?

I don’t have a specific routine. I like to go with the flow. I let my body dictate how hard and heavy or how light and easy I go on a day-to-day basis. Some days may include hitting a two a day (CrossFit and X⁴), while others days may require me to take entirely off. Ultimately, I aim to get in at least 7-8 classes a week.

What motivates you to wake up for the 5 a.m. class?

The people who I look up to inspire me to wake up early. I came to realize the people who’ve excelled/excel ( RIP Kobe, MJ, The Rock, Mark Walburg, Ed Mylett, Aaron @ Junction Fitness, etc.) typically have one thing in common; they all start their days at 4 a.m. With that said, I aim to be great at whatever I do, and I believe that it’s vital to follow the blueprint of those who’ve done it before you to achieve greatness. Not to mention, if I can get the worst part of my day over with in the morning, why not? It’s only up from there.

What advice would you give to people trying to get in a steady routine and maintain a healthy lifestyle?

The advice I would give to anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle is that it’s just that—a LIFESTYLE. In the words of the late great Nipsey Hussle, “the marathon continues.” Life isn’t a race. Go at your pace. There will be good days, and there will be bad. As long as you put your head down and get the work in, you’ve already won. So be light on yourself, smell the flowers and enjoy the process.

How has your life been impacted since joining Junction Fitness?

Since joining Junction Fitness, I’ve seen significant improvements in all aspects, both inside and out of the gym. My strength has grown. My endurance has improved, and I’m stronger mentally as well. Making it through these classes gives me the confidence to make it past the challenges of everyday life.

What goals have you achieved since becoming a part of the community at Junction Fitness?

Currently, I’m on my second 100lb weight loss journey. I started at 300 lbs, and now I’m at a solid 240. So Right now, I’m 60 lbs down, and 20 of those alone have come since I’ve joined Junction Fitness. I still have a ways to go, but I think it’s safe to say Junction Fitness has put me on the right path.

What has made you want to stay at Junction Fitness longer than you originally planned?

The people. From the coaching staff to the people I see who come in every day challenging themselves to better than they were the day before has kept me around. It takes a community to get to where you want to go, and the people here definitely make this place a little more special.

How has Junction Fitness bettered your life outside of the gym? Your personal life? Your job?

Junction has made life easier both mentally and physically. From getting up, moving patients, bending and walking, my functionality has improved all around. Also, mentally realizing how much I'm capable of doing has given me the confidence to accept challenges in life that I may not have once before. I’m less afraid to step outside of my comfort zone because I do so every time I step into the gym.

How have the people at Junction Fitness helped motivate/encourage you?

If there’s one thing for sure, it’s that I have the privilege to work out with some top-notch level athletes. Just when I think I’m improving in one area, I’m shown my weaknesses in others. There’s always room for improvement and the people here never fail to remind me. Men, women, young, old, short, tall, you never know who will hand you an inspiring ass-kicking on a day-to-day basis. I love them for it.

What are you most proud of after this experience? What does living a healthier lifestyle mean to you?

Honestly, I’m proud of the fact that I even get to have this experience. The fact that I can be somewhere that I didn’t know anyone before and find a safe haven that feels like home is something that I cherish. Living a healthy lifestyle to me means living life on my terms and being able to do what I want, when I want, how I want. I believe striving to be the best version of myself physically is part of that. “Health is wealth.”, If I take care of the first part of that statement, then the latter is sure to find its way to me.

Why do you think it is important to share your story with others in the Junction Fitness community?

I think it’s important to share my story because we all have one to tell at the end of the day, no matter where we are within this fitness journey. It could be your first day, or it may be your 1000th. Once you’re a part of this community, we have one goal—self-improvement. Hopefully, sharing my story inspires someone to continue writing their own.