For Allison Baskett, 33, fitness is more than a routine, but a channel to a healthy mind, flourishing friendships, and more time with her kids. A single mom of two boys, Maverick (8) and Samuel (6), and a psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in women’s mental health, Allison spends her days caring for others. Her work focuses heavily on postpartum women navigating anxiety, depression, and major life transitions, experiences that have affected Allison personally.
Shortly after her first son was born, Allison lost her father, and in the midst of grief and new motherhood, she found herself struggling with severe anxiety and depression. It was a season that forced her to seek support and ultimately led her to fitness. She joined a small CrossFit gym owned by a single mom, and began showing up as often as she could. Allison was able to connect to her body and physical strength, as well as to a new community. “It wasn’t just about working out; it was finding a group of women who became my support system.”
Allison’s sons have been by her side throughout her fitness journey. She spent many workouts rocking her babies in their car seats between sets at CrossFit and performing squats and lifts with a toddler on her back; now, they tag along with her on hikes and outdoor workouts. “Growing up in Oregon, being outdoors and physically active has always been important to me. When we’re back there visiting family, you can guarantee we’re either paddleboarding on the river or on a trail chasing waterfalls somewhere.”
Today, her fitness routine looks different, but the foundation remains the same. Allison still does strength training, now at her garage gym at home, and still enjoys having friends over to work out with her. As a working mom, Allison uses her early mornings for herself, reading her Bible and incorporating some form of movement, even if it’s just stretching or yoga.
In recent years, Allison’s goals have shifted from aesthetics to function and experience. Whether she’s rucking through her neighborhood, hiking waterfalls in Oregon, or preparing to climb Humphreys Peak, Allison focuses on building strength for a life of adventure with her boys. “There will be a last time you’ll be able to pick up your children, and I want to delay that as long as possible.”
By Zoe Harrison
Photo by Tindall Stephens
