CrossFit Cures: Lori’s Journey to Better Bone Health

At age 64, Lori Kruger's remarkable journey stands as a testament to the power of determination and holistic health approaches. After retiring at 55, a chance encounter at a grocery store led her to discover CrossFit. Her story took a dramatic turn when a routine bone density scan at age 62 revealed alarming results - her bone density matched that of someone well into their 70s.

Despite medical professionals recommending she limit herself to walking, swimming, and maximum 10-pound weights, Lori chose a different path. She developed a comprehensive two-year health strategy that combined increased CrossFit training, nutrition optimization, and lifestyle changes. Her approach included ramping up CrossFit attendance to unlimited classes, boosting protein intake to 150 grams daily, incorporating hormone replacement therapy (HRT), adding creatine supplementation, eliminating alcohol, and implementing daily hour-long walks. She also created a systematic approach to supplementation, which she dubbed her "BBB" (brains, bones, and beauty) system.

The results defied medical expectations. After two years, her doctor documented an unprecedented 9.9% overall improvement in bone density, including a 5.4% increase in spinal density. While medical professionals attributed this remarkable turnaround primarily to HRT, Lori maintains that her success stemmed from the synergistic effect of all interventions, particularly the progressive overload training in CrossFit.

This achievement holds special significance for Lori, whose own mother became bedridden from osteoporosis at just 50 years old. Today, Lori can proudly deadlift 210 pounds, serving as a powerful inspiration for others facing similar health challenges. Her success story exemplifies the potential of taking ownership of one's health journey, particularly when supported by knowledgeable professionals like her CrossFit Orillia coach, Matt. Lori's experience demonstrates how transformative health interventions can be when coupled with personal determination and proper guidance.

Lori’s story is part of Grand Rounds. The full video can be accessed through the link below. If you are in the CME/CEU program additional articles are provided to read and review in conjunction with video.

At Elevation Health, co-owners Maggi Birdsell and Heather Peters have created an innovative healthcare model that bridges the gap between traditional medical care and functional fitness. Their journey exemplifies thoughtful evolution in community healthcare delivery, combining their diverse backgrounds and shared vision for holistic wellness.

Maggi's path to creating this integrated space began during her time as a Division I field hockey player at the University of Delaware, where she experienced firsthand the challenges of athletic performance and body image issues. Despite initially resisting weightlifting—waiting two years after opening the affiliate to try CrossFit due to concerns about "getting big"—she eventually embraced a more comprehensive approach to fitness and health.

This personal transformation shaped Elevation Health's integrated model. Understanding the intricate connections between physical fitness, nutrition, and overall wellness, Maggi and Heather designed their facility to address these interconnected aspects of health. Their approach transcends traditional healthcare boundaries, creating an environment where clinical care and functional fitness naturally complement each other.

The success of their model stems from its authenticity. Both providers bring their personal experiences and professional expertise to create a space where clients feel understood and supported. Their openness about their own fitness journeys—from Maggi's first challenging Fran workout to their ongoing commitment to learning and growth—helps clients feel more comfortable with their own health transformations.

Elevation Health is connected to their affiliate, ASHE CrossFit, fostering a fluid relationship between members who become patients and patients who become members. Based in rural Ashe, North Carolina, where patients sometimes drive an hour for appointments, Maggi and Heather maintain a lifestyle-first approach to care, supporting their patients with nutrition and fitness guidance even remotely.

Through Elevation Health, they've shown that effective healthcare delivery can break from conventional models. Their integrated approach demonstrates how combining clinical expertise with functional fitness creates a more comprehensive and accessible healthcare experience. This innovative model serves both the immediate health needs of their community and builds a foundation for long-term wellness and engagement.

Provider Spotlight:

Building Bridges: Integrating Fitness and Healthcare at Elevation Health

Written by Jenn Pishko, MSNE

Total Transformation at Elevation Health

Where Primary Care, Nutrition & CrossFit Come Together

At Elevation Health, we’ve reimagined what it means to pursue optimal wellness by combining Direct Primary Care, nutrition, and functional fitness through Ashe CrossFit—all under one roof. This integrated model breaks down the barriers between traditional medicine and lifestyle change, making it easier and more affordable for individuals and families to take control of their health. Our approach isn’t one-size-fits-all. Instead, we personalize care, provide consistent accountability, and focus on health as a measurable outcome. Whether managing chronic conditions, optimizing performance, or simply trying to feel better in your own skin, our model empowers people with the tools and support needed. And the results?

We don’t guess—we track.

  • Weight & body fat percentage

  • Blood pressure

  • Resting heart rate

  • Skeletal muscle mass

  • Medication reduction

  • A1c, cholesterol, triglycerides

  • Original vs. current diagnoses

  • Sleep

  • Mental health

The results speak for themselves. Patients and members are reducing or eliminating medications, reversing diagnoses like prediabetes and hypertension, building strength (in both bone and muscle), improving mental health, and thriving in ways they never imagined possible.

Real People. Real Results.

These stories below are real examples of what happens when our three pillars -  primary care, nutrition, and fitness come together in one unified, sustainable model.

Mr. J.P., a 63-year-old male, has transformed his life with consistency and support. Since starting CrossFit, he’s reduced his blood pressure medication by 15mg, improved his sleep, and built a supportive community. Switching to a different anticoagulant lifted dietary restrictions, and working with our Registered Dietitian helped eliminate his prediabetes and reduce body fat. He’s also needed fewer antibiotics thanks to allergy immunotherapy—and he’s staying active with 5Ks, bike races and canoeing events. His progress is a powerful reminder that lifestyle changes work.

G.P., a 46-year-old male, began his health journey in 2017 with CrossFit and then in 2019 with regular primary care visits. The result? Significant weight loss, normalized blood pressure without medication, and improved mental health. He’s made new friends, competed in his first CrossFit competition, and built a healthier, fuller life.

C.B., 59, began CrossFit in 2022 and worked with our Registered Dietitian to tailor nutrition for menopause. Due to our three pillar approach her results include reducing anxiety and depression medications from three to one—and eliminating gabapentin for pain altogether. Her story showcases the connection between strength training, nutrition, and mental well-being.

A.H., 49, has experienced noticeable gains in muscle mass and testosterone, plus better sleep and shoulder mobility. His move to Elevation Health was driven by frustration by the traditional healthcare model. But the real win? He and his wife completed their first MURPH workout together, reinforcing the power of shared goals and community strength.

M.B., a 56-year-old male, resolved a diabetes diagnosis by working with both our FNP and Dietitian and committing to CrossFit in 2022. Though a job change caused some setbacks, our ongoing relationship through primary care and fitness allows us to help him course-correct. His journey reminds us that support and follow-up are essential, especially during life transitions.

P.G. started CrossFit in 2022 and Primary Care in 2019, she partnered with our Dietitian to resolve constipation, improve lipids and blood pressure, and maintain muscle mass—all while reducing the risk for osteoporosis and eliminating prediabetes.

N.A. began CrossFit and primary care in 2022. Working on an elimination diet helped her reduce allergy symptoms, lower inflammation, and lose weight. Routine medical visits allowed her blood pressure and heart rate to improve, and she developed greater mental resilience after setbacks in 2024. She embodies the mindset of progress over perfection—a message we can all embrace.

B.W., a 19-year-old Division I softball athlete, began with Ashe Crossfit in 2019 during high school and then in 2020 with Elevation Health as a result of disordered eating. Now, she’s not only thriving in college but also holds her CF-L1 certification and coaches during school breaks. Her relationship with food and her body has radically improved, highlighting the power of support, early intervention, education, and a strong foundation.

The Journey Matters

These stories are more than just success snapshots—they’re proof that when healthcare professionals work collaboratively across primary care, nutrition, and fitness, lives truly change. At Elevation Health, our team doesn’t just treat symptoms—we integrate care in a way that’s proactive, personalized, and rooted in real relationships. Health is measurable, and with the right model, it’s also achievable. We believe our body tells a story—let’s make it one of transformation, strength, and hope.

Conclusion and Take aways:

The scientific literature strongly validates Elevation Health's integrated approach to wellness. The International Society of Hypertension's guidelines emphasize lifestyle modifications as the first-line strategy for preventing and controlling hypertension, which directly aligns with Elevation Health's comprehensive model combining primary care, nutrition, and functional fitness.

The clinical outcomes at Elevation Health demonstrate this effectiveness. Their patients show improvements in key metrics that the hypertension guidelines specifically recommend, including:

  • Weight management and body composition

  • Physical activity through structured CrossFit programs

  • Sleep quality improvements

The research on resistance training in older adults with Type 2 diabetes further supports their approach, showing positive effects on muscle strength and disease management. This is reflected in Elevation Health's success stories, such as M.B., who resolved his diabetes diagnosis through their integrated approach, and Mr. J.P., who eliminated prediabetes through their combined fitness and nutrition program.

Elevation Health's tracking of measurable outcomes- including A1c, cholesterol, blood pressure, and medication reduction- aligns perfectly with the evidence-based approach recommended in the scientific literature. Their success in helping patients reduce or eliminate medications and reverse chronic conditionsdemonstrates the practical application of these research-backed interventions.

This integration of scientific evidence with practical application makes Elevation Health's model a prime example of how modern healthcare can effectively combine traditional medical care with lifestyle interventions to achieve superior patient outcomes.

Unger, T., Oparil, S., Pitt, B., Whelton, P. K., & Williams, B. (2024). International Society of Hypertension practice guidelines: Lifestyle management in hypertension. Journal of Hypertension, 42(2), 187–198. https://doi.org/10.1097/HJH.0000000000003601

Dunstan, D. W., Kingwell, B. A., Larsen, R., Healy, G. N., Cerin, E., Hamilton, M. T., & Owen, N. (2024). Resistance training for the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes: A review of the evidence. Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice, 200, 111576. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.diabres.2024.111576

Just launched: New Visualizer

This new platform was built specifically for our CrossFit Community. The CFMS visualizer will take your biomarker data and show you where you are on the continuum. It comes complete with personalized insights on what all these markers mean. When you order your blood panel through the CFMS, access to the visualizer is included.

We've expanded our biomarker panel options. You can now choose from new Elite Male and Female panels in the Biomarker Hub.

Recent articles

  • Brain Gains: Creatine Supplementation Shows Early Potential in Alzheimer’s Disease

    It seems like every week we are learning more and more about the wide-ranging benefits of creatine supplementation. Our first study this month explored the feasibility, safety, and cognitive impact of high-dose creatine monohydrate supplementation (20 g/day) over eight weeks in individuals with early Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The results showed a significant increase in measured brain creatine levels and strong participant compliance (90%), with no serious adverse events. There were limitations to the study including a small (n=19) number of participants and no control arm. In addition, there were 2:1 male participants and nearly 80% of those were white.  Preliminary analyses suggested improvements in executive function and memory. Creatine's proposed mechanism—enhancing brain energy metabolism—aligns with prior research highlighting impaired energy utilization as an underlying cause of AD. These promising findings justify larger randomized controlled trials to determine reproducibility in larger more diverse cohorts, especially given projections that global dementia cases will triple by 2050.

  • Circadian Soldiers: How Light Primes the Immune System

    If you have ever had to listen to me talk about foundational health pillars, the topic of circadian rhythm and light exposure no doubt came up. Our second article this month highlights how light-driven circadian rhythms optimize immune function—specifically neutrophil activity. Researchers discovered that the transcription factor Bmal1 governs a circadian timer in neutrophils, which controls their antibacterial readiness. Neutrophils were most effective during the early active phase (daytime), and mice lacking Bmal1 in these cells showed impaired bactericidal activity and worse outcomes after infection. Now this article is heavy on the science and jargon, so don’t worry about getting too caught up in the terminology. The main take away is that these findings reinforce the biological importance of synchronizing our environment with our internal clocks. Yet, most people today follow the Standard American Light Diet (SALD)—indoor light by day, artificial light by night—misaligning our immune rhythm with our evolutionary design. This is a potential reason why shift workers or phase shifters (traveling through different time zones) can make us more prone to infection. 

  • Leukemia’s Taurine Addiction: A Metabolic Vulnerability Exposed

    Remember when Monster Energy sponsored the Games in 2021? Well it turns out sugar may not have been all we needed to worry about. A recent article the journal Nature reveals that taurine, commonly found in energy drinks and supplements, may accelerate leukemia progression. While taurine does not cause leukemia, leukemic stem and progenitor cells (LSPCs) exploit it by upregulating the SLC6A6 transporter, allowing uptake from the bone marrow niche. This taurine influx drives glycolysis, fueling cell proliferation in acute and chronic myeloid leukemia (AML and CML). Inhibiting SLC6A6 impairs this growth. The takeaway: context matters. While taurine has therapeutic uses in other settings, its effects may be detrimental in cancers with taurine dependence. Similar caution applies to other compounds—like nicotinamide riboside —that can improve cellular mitochondrial function, but has also been shown to drive tumor growth and metastasis. The key is understanding when a “health” supplement may have pro-growth effects in unintended ways.

  • Environmental Obesogens: Molecular Gateways to Metabolic Dysregulation

    Our environments have a significant impact on our overall health. Food deserts, air pollution and violence all can impact both healthspan and lifespan. Our final article this month evaluates another class of environmental chemicals known as obesogens. These are emerging as potential hidden drivers of the global obesity epidemic. These endocrine-disrupting compounds interfere with metabolic regulation by altering hormone signaling, gene expression, and stem cell fate. Obesogens such as tributyltin, bisphenol A, and acrylamide enhance differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into white adipocytes, increasing fat accumulation. Alarmingly, early-life exposures can lead to transgenerational effects detectable in up to four generations. Yes you read that correctly, if your grandfather happened to stain decks for a living, that could impact your potential for obesity decades later. This research reframes obesity not merely as a lifestyle disease, but as a biologically programmed outcome influenced by environmental toxins—highlighting the urgent need for personal awareness, policy change and informed consumer choice.

Healthcare that makes you feel good

Megan's Journey into CommunityCare started with her role as a dedicated CrossFit coach, where she witnessed firsthand the transformative power of community-driven health and wellness. As a fitness professional deeply invested in helping others achieve their health goals, she found herself increasingly frustrated with the traditional healthcare system's limitations and barriers to accessing preventive care.

Like many fitness professionals, Megan maintained a strong commitment to personal health and wellness, regularly pursuing comprehensive health screenings and preventive care. However, she encountered frequent obstacles when trying to obtain the specific lab work and tests she knew would benefit her health journey. These experiences resonated deeply with her understanding of proactive healthcare and highlighted the disconnect between what health-conscious individuals need and what traditional insurance typically provides.

When Megan discovered CommunityCare, she found a healthcare solution that aligned perfectly with her values and approach to wellness. The platform's emphasis on preventive care and its ability to facilitate direct access to desired health services particularly appealed to her. She experienced firsthand the efficiency of the system when she submitted lab requests through the app and received funding within just a few days - a stark contrast to her previous experiences with traditional healthcare providers.

As a coach and health advocate, Megan appreciates how CommunityCare empowers individuals to take control of their health journey. She values the platform's approach to supporting both routine wellness measures and managing unexpected health events. The community aspect of the platform particularly resonates with her background in CrossFit, where she's witnessed how strong community support can positively impact health outcomes.

Today, Megan serves as a passionate advocate for CommunityCare, sharing her experiences with fellow coaches and gym members. She emphasizes how the platform's innovative approach to healthcare aligns with the proactive, community-driven mindset that defines the CrossFit community. Her story exemplifies how CommunityCare is changing the healthcare landscape by providing solutions that truly serve health-conscious individuals who want more control over their wellness journey.