Let me tell you about the first time I coached Shane.
He was going through foundations, and at some point he apologized for his “terrible dad jokes.” I… didn’t laugh. Either I forgot to, or I genuinely didn’t realize it was supposed to be funny. Somehow, we hit it off after that awkward exchange, and now I’m pretty sure Shane’s humor is one of my favorite parts of having him around.
Shane shows up. Consistently. Which might not sound like a big deal until you hear his story. He moved to a new state, works from home, and was completely out of his school and sports routine. Translation: He didn’t know anyone. Thankfully, one of our coaches happened to be his realtor and pointed him to CrossFit Lincoln.
I have to admit something – I completely misread Shane when he first walked in. He was quiet, reserved, and I interpreted that as the typical standoffish vibe you sometimes get from strong, experienced lifters. I was so wrong. Once I actually got to know him, I realized he wasn’t standoffish at all. He was just looking for the same thing we all are: community. A group of people who’d give him a hard time. A place where his sense of humor would land.
Shane went all-in on the 2024 Winter Committed Club, and he’s mentioned how grateful he is that he did. It gave him the opportunity to truly connect with everyone. Now, he’s the guy who shows up to gym events, partners with new members during workouts, and genuinely makes everyone feel welcome.
We’re so lucky to have him in our community.
What first brought you to CrossFit, and what keeps you coming back?
For years I had worked out at traditional gyms doing mostly weight training and some cardio. We’re talking 10 minutes on the stair climber while waiting on the next bench press, rack, or machine. I love strength training, but I didn’t have the discipline or knowledge to be a more rounded athlete. Even though I was routinely at the gym, I wasn’t getting the results I wanted. At the end of 2022, I finally admitted that I needed to make a change. I signed up for a trial workout at CrossFit MKT, my former gym in Columbia, MO. Admittedly, I showed up to my first one-on-one session a little cocky. I was a “veteran weightlifter” afterall; however, a basic 20-minute intro workout completely destroyed me and my ego. I knew I needed help and had come to the right place.
I kept going to class, learning, and pushing myself. The formula worked. I slowly started seeing results and became increasingly hooked. At some point, CrossFit mentally changed from a chore to what I do for fun.
What accomplishment in the gym are you most proud of so far?
My greatest accomplishment was actually pretty easy. It’s getting to know everyone and becoming a member of the Lincoln CrossFit community. Moving cities can be tough and I was really nervous starting over at a new gym. Luckily my realtor happened to be Coach Heather (highly recommend), and she pointed me in the right direction. Coach Emily showed me the ropes, and the 6 am crew was very welcoming.
What is your favorite movement or workout — and your least favorite?
I really love Murph as a yearly event, but it’s a long workout and pretty taxing on the body (or at least for me). I’ll go with Strict Cindy, or equivalent as my favorite workout. I enjoy the focus on the basics: pushups, strict pull ups, and body weight squats. Throw is some ab work and “chefs kiss”. My “boogieman” workout is the Open Workout 24.1. I did not pace myself, got smoked, and it took everything I had to finish. I’ll have to try it again sometime, but I am in no hurry to do so.
How has CrossFit impacted your life outside the gym (health, work, family, mindset)?
The workouts are called RX for a reason. CrossFit is medicine. Not only has my overall health improved greatly, but my day-to-day mood is so much better after a workout. I’m happier, more patient with my kids, and less impacted by the stressors at work. Plus, I’ve made some amazing friends at the gym, and there’s always an event or activity to do as a group on the weekends.
What advice would you give to someone who’s brand new to CrossFit?
The best advice I have for someone new is to just keep coming.
