CrossFit Odyssey

CrossFit Odyssey CrossFit Odyssey provides CrossFit for the entire family in the heart of Dallas.

CrossFit Odyssey is dedicated to making the world a better place by helping people become the best versions of themselves in mind, body and spirit on the Journey to Extraordinary.

Sunday Story…Simple, not Easyby John MariottiA day rarely goes by that I don’t get asked about the latest trend in eatin...
08/10/2025

Sunday Story…Simple, not Easy
by John Mariotti

A day rarely goes by that I don’t get asked about the latest trend in eating, exercise, or some other special supplement or drug. The fact is, simple is better. There is no magic pill. There’s no special diet, workout, or anything else that’s going to work for everybody all the time, all the time. The next best thing might be a little better or a little worse than the last best thing. The thing is that improvement, consistency, and simplicity don’t sell. They don’t get you likes on Instagram. They don’t get you another client. What sells is innovation. The new, the latest, the unique thing, and the promise of the magic pill or the shortcut. That’s what sells.

Numerous people have told me over the years that they had to get in shape to start CrossFit, martial arts, or anything else. The fact is that all those things will get you into shape. That’s the point. That’s how simple it is.

If you haven’t been doing strength training for over a year, start by picking a program and sticking with it for 12-16 weeks. See what happens and then decide whether to change it at the end of 16 weeks. Keep it simple. It doesn’t have to be complicated.

I’ve spent a number of these weekly missives talking about longevity and what’s the best way to live your best life. The fact is that if you’re starting from scratch, the most important thing is to begin; walk through the door, get on a bike, get on a rower, get out on the road, and start today. This is the simplest, most straightforward way to do it. Don’t worry about whether you have the right program, or whether the food you’re eating is right, or whether the supplements are this or that - just get started and keep it simple.

It is simple…not easy.

If you’re interested in learning how to build muscle and strength, sign up for a free fitness assessment at www.crossfitodyssey.com or reach out to me directly, and let’s get you started on your journey to extraordinary results.

Our Owners & Head CoachesEllie Bishop McKenzie and John MariottiCrossFit Odyssey is dedicated to making the world a bett...
06/08/2025

Our Owners & Head Coaches
Ellie Bishop McKenzie and John Mariotti

CrossFit Odyssey is dedicated to making the world a better place by helping you find the indomitable warrior spirit within. We are not just a gym or a CrossFit Box. We know that YOU make the world a better place by being a better YOU. We know that fitness and health will help you find the successful person inside that you want to be.

People come here because they want a change in their lives – first and foremost in their health. When people use our fitness program, they leave feeling like they can do anything they set their minds to doing. This is the unconquerable spirit we cultivate. They go back into their regular lives primed and ready to overcome any and all of the obstacles and challenges they encounter in their everyday lives.

This is the Journey to Extraordinary. We teach intense physical exercise along with healthy nutrition. We create a positive, caring community of individuals who show support and encouragement for one another. We teach kindness and giving back to the community. We want each of you to find your path to better and everyone is here to get you – and keep you – on that road. Your movement will improve, your health will improve, and your spirit will grow stronger. We know that each person who joins our Journey to Extraordinary will leave this place better… and go on to make the world a better place.

As masters (over 40 years old) athletes ourselves, we specialize in masters training and a family environment.

CrossFit Odyssey…a program of constantly varied functional movement at high intensity designed to increase and improve your general physical preparedness. Universally scale-able this is a program designed for anyone at any level. The amazing side effect of this program is simple: You will be better.

05/19/2025

‼️THIS SUNDAY‼️

Are you dealing with a nagging pain or mobility issues but aren’t sure what to do about it?

Sign up for your free injury screen time slot with a Doctor of Physical Therapy who specializes in orthopedic and sports injuries. You’ll chat about what you’ve been dealing with and come up with an actionable plan to get you back to 💯 💪🏽

Spots are limited so sign up now! 🔗

Next up is Russell Huber! Russell has been with us at CrossFit Odyssey for so long he is known as the “Mayor” of CrossFi...
03/29/2025

Next up is Russell Huber! Russell has been with us at CrossFit Odyssey for so long he is known as the “Mayor” of CrossFit as well as the guy with the Hello Kitty weights. Russell is always very careful about his movement when he is not busy chatting with the other members about sports and kids. Two years ago, Russell was happy to get a few deadlifts safely at the prescribed weight in the Open. This year he got ALL of them plus more movements! He also was able to do all of the double unders and many more movements that he was not capable of doing before. That, my friends, is progress! Congratulations, Russell, on your Journey to Extraordinary!

These are my FAVORITE texts!! From one of my favorite clients, age 68, two-time heart attack survivor and now battling c...
03/22/2025

These are my FAVORITE texts!! From one of my favorite clients, age 68, two-time heart attack survivor and now battling cancer and winning!

Did you know that recent studies show that exercise during cancer treatments increases rates of survival? Exercise can also help prevent cancer and increase survivability if you do get it.

Want to start FEELING YOUR BEST and being PROUD of yourself even though you’re getting older? Come workout with us! We’re on this Journey to Extraordinary together and we will help you no matter what you’ve been dealing with in your life.

CrossFit Open Workout 25.3 is here!!! Let’s Goooooo!!Time cap: 20 minutes♀ 155-lb (70-kg) deadlift, 85-lb (38-kg) clean,...
03/13/2025

CrossFit Open Workout 25.3 is here!!! Let’s Goooooo!!

Time cap: 20 minutes

♀ 155-lb (70-kg) deadlift, 85-lb (38-kg) clean, 65-lb (29-kg) sn**ch
♂ 225-lb (102-kg) deadlift, 135-lb (61-kg) clean, 95-lb (43-kg) sn**ch

Masters 55+:
♀ Scaled wall walks | 125, 65, 45 lb (56, 29, 20 kg)
♂ Scaled wall walks | 185, 95, 65 lb (83, 43, 29 kg)

Strength Training for Women, Week 3: Reduce Anxiety & Depression with LiftingThe first blog I ever wrote back in 2011 wa...
03/10/2025

Strength Training for Women, Week 3: Reduce Anxiety & Depression with Lifting

The first blog I ever wrote back in 2011 was titled “It’s Hard to Cry When You’re Running.” I started it in the midst of my divorce, at a time when sadness felt overwhelming. But I needed to stay strong—for my children and myself. Fitness became my anchor, the one thing keeping me afloat.

Why that title? Because it’s true. It really is hard to cry when you’re running. Your breathing deepens, your nose starts running, and suddenly, making an ugly crying face in full view of your neighbors becomes a whole new level of awkward. But as you push forward, you shift your focus—your movement, your breath, the rhythm of each step. And then, something incredible happens.

The fresh air hits your skin. The sun warms your face. You inhale deeply, filling your lungs with power, and exhale the weight of your worries. With every step, you leave behind the stress, the tension, the anxiety.

Strength Training: A Powerful Tool for Mental Health

Thousands of studies have shown that exercise plays a key role in reducing depression and anxiety. While running has always been my go-to stress reliever, strength training is just as powerf….

To read the rest go to link in bio
Linktree-> Journey To Extraordinary

Strength Training for Women, Week 3: Reduce Anxiety & Depression with LiftingThe first blog I ever wrote back in 2011 wa...
03/10/2025

Strength Training for Women, Week 3: Reduce Anxiety & Depression with Lifting

The first blog I ever wrote back in 2011 was titled “It’s Hard to Cry When You’re Running.” I started it in the midst of my divorce, at a time when sadness felt overwhelming. But I needed to stay strong—for my children and myself. Fitness became my anchor, the one thing keeping me afloat.

Why that title? Because it’s true. It really is hard to cry when you’re running. Your breathing deepens, your nose starts running, and suddenly, making an ugly crying face in full view of your neighbors becomes a whole new level of awkward. But as you push forward, you shift your focus—your movement, your breath, the rhythm of each step. And then, something incredible happens.

The fresh air hits your skin. The sun warms your face. You inhale deeply, filling your lungs with power, and exhale the weight of your worries. With every step, you leave behind the stress, the tension, the anxiety.

Strength Training: A Powerful Tool for Mental Health

Thousands of studies have shown that exercise plays a key role in reducing depression and anxiety. While running has always been my go-to stress reliever, strength training is just as powerful—if not more so. The confidence and sense of accomplishment after lifting heavy are unmatched.

The Mental Health Benefits of Strength Training

Lifting weights isn’t just about building muscle; it’s about building resilience—physically and mentally. Here’s how strength training can help:
• Boosts Mood – Resistance training has been proven to improve mood, combat feelings of worthlessness, and promote a sense of well-being.
• Enhances Focus – Regular exercise sharpens working memory, increases concentration, and improves cognitive function.
• Improves Sleep – A challenging workout helps regulate sleep cycles, leading to deeper, more restful sleep.
• Supports Social Interaction – Strength training in a group setting fosters community, accountability, and shared accomplishment.
• Promotes Healthy Aging – Both cardio and resistance training contribute to long-term physical and mental well-being, supporting a higher quality of life.

The Science Backs It Up

Research confirms the link between resistance training and improved mental health:
• A 2018 meta-analysis found that resistance training significantly reduced depressive symptoms.
• Another study concluded that strength training had a moderate but significant antidepressant effect.
• Research also showed that those diagnosed with depression experienced greater benefits from strength training than those without a clinical diagnosis.
(Read the full study here.)

Take It to the Next Level: Train Outdoors

Want to amplify the mental health benefits of your workouts? Take them outside. Renowned biologist E.O. Wilson called nature “organic Xanax,” and for good reason. Studies show that as little as 15 minutes in nature can lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, and alleviate anxiety, depression, and hostility.

Ready to Start? Let’s Lift!

If you’re nervous about strength training, you’re not alone—but you don’t have to do it alone. A personal trainer or group class can help you build strength safely and confidently.

At CrossFit Odyssey, we work with clients of all ages and fitness levels. Can’t squat properly? We’ll start with the basics—like sitting in a chair and standing back up—progressing in small, manageable steps. Over time, you’ll gain the strength to move confidently and do the things you love.

Now is the time. Join us and transform the way you look, move, and feel.

Address

4202 West Lovers Lane
Dallas, TX
75209

Opening Hours

Monday 5:30am - 7:30pm
Tuesday 6am - 7:30pm
Wednesday 5:30am - 7:30pm
Thursday 6am - 7:30pm
Friday 5:30am - 6:30pm
Saturday 8am - 12pm
Sunday 10am - 12pm

Website

https://linktr.ee/crossfitodysseydallas

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