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The Express Gazette
Wednesday, October 7, 2026

Husband Leaves Wife for CrossFit Partner, Becomes 'Gym Widow'

A woman details how her husband's newfound obsession with CrossFit led to his affair and their divorce.

US Politics • an hour ago
Husband Leaves Wife for CrossFit Partner, Becomes 'Gym Widow'

Alice Dartnell's marriage took an unexpected turn when her husband, James, became engrossed in CrossFit. What began as a humorous observation of him spending hours at the gym, earning her the moniker 'gym widow,' ultimately led to the dissolution of their four-year marriage.

James's dedication to the high-intensity fitness program evolved into an all-consuming passion that dramatically altered their lives. According to Dartnell, his commitment to CrossFit extended to the point where he began spending significant time at the gym. This intense focus on his new hobby ultimately led him to develop a relationship with another member of the gym.

Dartnell recounts the moment James delivered the news that he wanted a divorce, revealing that his decision was motivated by his relationship with his gym partner. The experience left her not only a 'gym widow' but also a 'CrossFit divorcee,' a term she uses to describe the unique circumstances of her marital breakdown.


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