When Amber Mills walked into CrossFit Influence in May of 2024, she wasn’t new to fitness. A former soccer player and longtime CrossFitter, she had always valued staying active. But this time was different. Amber wasn’t looking for a new workout—she was looking for herself.
After battling anxiety and depression, she knew she needed more than just a gym.
“I needed a place I wanted to go,” Amber shared. “Because I knew just showing up would give me more than the workout of the day.”
Her turning point came unexpectedly—during a free Bring a Friend Week, when a friend invited her to class. From the moment she stepped through the doors, she knew this was it. “There was no pressure, no anxiety, no question really. The environment felt right. The members were like friends on day one, and I felt good after leaving.”
Amber committed to showing up at least three days a week—no pressure to be perfect, just a promise to herself to keep moving forward. “If I do more, great. If I do only three, that’s great too. It’s a balanced schedule that fits into my life without overwhelming it.”
Through consistent movement, scaling workouts when needed, and shifting her mindset around nutrition and self-care, Amber began to notice real change.
✔️ Inches lost
✔️ Strength gained
✔️ Better sleep
✔️ Fewer cravings
✔️ A more balanced approach to hormones and health
But more powerful than the physical changes were the internal ones.
“I’ve gotten more confident—personally and professionally. I work in HR, and when I feel good about myself, it helps me show up better for others. I communicate more clearly, I feel more positive, and I no longer feel the need to hide away. I’m content, whether I’m with people or by myself.”
The support of the CrossFit Influence coaches and community made all the difference.
“I’ve never felt out of place. Whether I’m scaling or crushing it, the feedback is the same: you showed up, you moved, and we’re proud of you.”
When asked what she’d tell someone who’s on the fence about joining, her advice is simple:
“Just come try it. It’s nothing more than a room full of people moving around, releasing stress, and creating endorphins after a long day of life.”
Amber’s story is proof that fitness isn’t just about the body—it’s about reclaiming your confidence, your peace, and your joy. And sometimes, all it takes is one class to realize you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.