Inspiring Strength Inside and Outside the Box: Molly Strosser

Have you ever finished a CrossFit workout and immediately thought, “I should go on a run now!” - then you should meet our November Athlete of the Month - Molly Strosser! Molly is the definition of unwavering dedication and pursuit of betterment, and she helps inspire those around her to find the grit and determination to do the same. What makes Molly so powerful is the way she inspires those around her to rise to the occasion. Whether it's making a pact to work on bar muscle ups with her fellow classmates, turning that into a fun competition with her daughter, or including others in her post-workout runs, Molly makes a positive impact on those around her.

Although the Strossers have moved around their fair share as a military family, we are so glad that Molly landed at Blackbird. We love having her calm and friendly presence in the gym, at community events, and making lasting friendships that go beyond the box. As a role model for her daughters, we love that Molly is showing them - and us - that strength and challenging yourself is for moms as much as it is for everybody else. Congrats, Molly! 

Read more about Molly below:

Tell us about yourself!

My name is Molly, but I also go by Mo to family and friends. I have a bachelor's degree in biology and a master's degree in teaching. I taught English in Korea, and elementary school in Baltimore County before becoming a stay-at-home mom to my daughters, Penelope and Auggie. My husband, Jon, is in the Army so we have moved around quite a bit. We moved back to MD at the beginning of the year. I'm crossing my fingers that we're settled for good this time.

What made you start CrossFit? What has kept you doing it? Has your motivation changed from when you first started?

I started CrossFit in 2024 while living in AZ. At the time, running was my only form of exercise and my body needed something different. My daughter's favorite teacher, who happened to be a CrossFit coach, convinced me to do a trial class at her gym. I was hooked from day one. I had never touched a barbell or done gymnastics so I was loving the new challenge. I've kept coming to CrossFit because the challenge has never disappeared.

What is your proudest moment in the gym?

My proudest moment in the gym is watching my youngest daughter enjoy working out in the Blackbird Kids program. Hearing her talk about WODS, EMOMS and AMRAPS puts a smile on my face.

What is your favorite CrossFit movement, lift, or WOD? Is there something you dread seeing on Wodify?

Rope climbs and box jumps are my favorite movements. As for WODs, I enjoy the longer, chipper style workouts. I like Murph because I get to compare myself from year to year. I'm still acquiring a like for anything overhead with the barbell. And the echo bike...not my favorite.

What do you enjoy most about Blackbird or CrossFit in general?

I joined Blackbird to stay in shape, but I have stayed because of the motivating environment. There is no way I would do most of these workouts on my own. Thank you to the 9:30 regulars because I'm totally feeding off of all of your energy.

What are your CrossFit or fitness goals? How close are you to reaching them?

My main fitness goal is to continue getting stronger as I age. I'd like to be the grandmother still doing pistol squats and pullups. My main skill goal is to get a bar muscle up. My older daughter and I were having a race to see who could get a muscle up first. She won but I still want to show her that Mom can do one too.

When you are not in the gym what is your favorite thing to do?

Anything related to food/cooking. My family loves to experiment with recreating dishes from our favorite restaurants. I often joke that I would happily work for free at some of my favorite restaurants just to learn how to make their dishes. 

What is one fun thing about you that we may not know yet?

I make challenges for myself once in a while just to see if I can do it. In 2023 I told my family I was going to run at least three days a week, and that one of the runs would be at least a half marathon distance. I managed to get in all 52 half marathons. My husband said in 2024 I should do full marathons. That was a definite NO. I started CrossFit instead.

What is the one tip you would give someone considering CrossFit or new to CrossFit?

If you're already considering CrossFit, you may as well try it out. All you have to do is show up and trust the process. The programming, coaches and CrossFit community will get you where you want to be.

Any last thoughts?

I cannot imagine my life without Blackbird as part of it. I often emphasize to my daughters to surround themselves with people who will make them better humans. I'm happy to say that I follow my own advice. Every Blackbird coach and member has made me a better person both physically and spiritually. Thank you!