In this episode, we sit down with CrossFit competitor and above-knee amputee, Emily Saler, who shares her journey from sustaining a life-altering leg injury to discovering a passion for adaptive athletics.
Emily recounts her early struggles with learning to use a prosthesis—right in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic—and how she ultimately found purpose and community through adaptive CrossFit competitions. She explains what it takes to train with a microprocessor knee, why everyday tasks require patience and creativity, and how she’s learned the importance of advocating for herself, whether finding the right physical therapist or learning from fellow adaptive athletes.
Emily also offers encouragement to anyone with a physical challenge, emphasizing that stepping onto a competition floor is as much about learning and growing as it is about winning. With insight into adaptive movements, tips for “desert island workouts,” and reflections on faith, this conversation highlights Emily’s remarkable determination—and underscores that no matter our obstacles, we can adapt, push forward, and thrive.
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