

Get to know the people who make our Community Strong. This month, we’re catching up with Lura Meisch, who joined Defined in 2023.
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Lura Meisch has never worried much about whether or not she’d be good at something—instead, the hurdle she normally has to overcome is committing to something.
“My fitness background is scattered,” she says. “I’m the person who’s good at most things but rarely commits long-term.”
A soccer player growing up, Lura also dabbled in beach volleyball and cycling (her primary way of getting around the city since college). She never felt like she wasn’t “athletic,” but a real shift happened in winter of 2023, when a simple daily task revealed itself to be more difficult than she anticipated.
“I was in the kitchen, and a simple task—holding up a heavy pot of water, made my hand shake. It was a jarring moment where I realized my underlying strength had declined,” she says. “That, coupled with the post-pandemic isolation and resulting depression, made me realize I needed some structure.”
Lura began her search for a fitness routine that could keep her attention—and keep her engaged long-term.
“My brain simply couldn't handle the chaotic organization of solo workouts. That’s why I started my search, looking specifically for local gyms with coaching, since my focus is short and I rely on public transit and my own two feet to get around,” she says.

That’s when she found Defined Training. Between the constantly varied methodology of CrossFit programming, a community of support, and coaches who really care, Lura found something that would stick—and a newfound passion for Olympic weightlifting.
“Defined Training has done more than just build strength; it's transformed my life by giving my brain a sanctuary, a third space where I don't have to "perform," I just get to move,” Lura says. “The joy from what I can now do is insane. I’m no longer limited; I can carry my friends to give them a better view at a concert, I can manage heavy lifting at work without calling for backup, and I feel genuinely prepared to take care of my future self. Most importantly, moving my body freely has brought back a confidence I didn't realize I'd lost. Plus, a happier brain? That’s a pretty rad cherry on top.”

Now a few years into training at Defined, Lura has real goals that keep her motivated to stay on track.
“I have two main paths. For the gym, I’m setting serious targets: pushing toward the 800lb club, then the 900lb club, with the ultimate benchmark being 1,000lbs,” she says. “Off the platform, the goal is to master the art of living: embracing laughter, prioritizing learning new things, and ensuring I'm always enjoying the journey.”
For new athletes still looking for “something that sticks,” Lura’s advice is simple.
“Lower the barrier to entry,” she says. “Bring a friend along to make the first steps less intimidating. It’s so much easier to walk through the door when you’re not going in alone.”
Thank you, Lura, for being a member of Defined and helping make our Community Strong. 💪
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"Every day above ground is a great day, dalé." - Pitbull aka Mr. Worldwide aka Mr. 305
I've never broken a bone. (Please tap on wood for me, I hope this doesn't turn into a curse.)
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It doesn’t have to look like the one you just read. How has Defined help transform your life? We want to hear from you — reach out to Coach Reid or Coach Cara to get started!