Each month the coaching staff at EHP selects a member that is “Better Than Yesterday!” The selected recipient is a great example of EHP’s CREDO—demonstrating compassion, honesty, resilience, perseverance, and tenacity. Pam Morrau was selected as March’s “Better Than Yesterday” recipient

Why did you start CrossFit?
 I started CrossFit in 2018, I think about a year after my husband Jeff joined.  When he would come home from a workout, it seemed like he really loved it.  I’ve always worked out a lot and have participated in sports my entire life.  However, I was going through a little bit of a rough patch at this time and had only been able to work out sporadically since 2009.  I was initially a little hesitant to try CrossFit because I didn’t think I would be able to do the movements with my lower back being fused.  I had a major back injury in 2009 and it took 6 years and 4 surgeries for me to be able to move pretty normally again and manage my pain. 

Why do you continue CrossFit?
After I started CrossFit, I found that I loved it too! In the past I always preferred working out by myself and didn’t think I would like group fitness because I never really got much out of aerobics classes.  I didn’t think I would be able to get the intensity of a great workout if I was in a group.  CrossFit is nothing like group aerobics and I definitely don’t have to worry about not getting a good enough workout in!  I know everyone says it, but I also really love the sense of community.  It’s like nothing you will ever get at a regular gym. 

What has been your greatest achievement since starting EHP?
When I initially joined EHP, I wanted to lose 10 pounds and get back in shape.  For the first few years, I did that and Jeff and I participated in various challenges and competitions at EHP.  We did our last competition at EHP in early 2020.  I don’t remember if it was Red River Riot or Friday Night Lights.  We were both in really great shape.  After that, COVID shutdowns kind of got me off track and by 2023 I was not working out very much.  I gained 20-25 pounds over 1 ½ – 2 years.  I started coming back to EHP regularly about 6 months ago and have been working out 5-6 days/week since then.  I have lost 10 pounds so far and am finally able to see a muscle here and there again! 

How has your life changed since joining EHP?
Besides my back issues, after 2020, I was also diagnosed with stage 4 osteoarthritis and a circumferential tear in my left hip labrum.  Working out at EHP has enabled me to keep my pain in check and stay active.  I have found that if I don’t work out, my pain gets exponentially worse, and I don’t move as well.  The quality of my life is much improved, and it has also been great for stress management.