Nolan is closing in on eight months as an athlete here at CrossFit Lincoln. He somehow found a free trial link on our website — I had no idea it was even there — signed up, and wandered in on a Saturday morning. He’s been coming consistently ever since, attending 169 classes and averaging five days a week. He made the Winter Committed Club his first two months here.
But showing up is just the surface of what Nolan has contributed to our community. For a newer athlete to embody all four of our core values so quickly is something special. He shows kindness to our coaches and members without hesitation. He’s genuinely curious about everything — always asking how he can improve and get better. He builds community through partner workouts, walks after class, and even participated in a team competition with five other members. And when it comes to trusting the process — that one stands out most.
Nolan came to us as a great athlete, but CrossFit was new territory. That meant a learning curve, uncomfortable feelings in his body as he tried new movements, and old football injuries reminding him to slow down, prioritize recovery, and lean on the coaches and athletes around him rather than just pushing through. He did all of that with humility and grace.
We are so lucky to have you in this community, Nolan — and so grateful for the way you show everyone what’s possible, in the most humble way.
A little about Athlete Nolan from Nolan:
I grew up on a farm near DuBois, about an hour and a half southeast of Lincoln, and played pretty much every sport growing up. I played football at Nebraska Wesleyan before three ACL and meniscus surgeries ended my playing career. These days I work as a CPA and attorney, focusing on tax, estate planning, and general business. Outside the gym, you’ll usually find me enjoying the outdoors — hiking, hunting, or getting into just about any sport I can.
1. What first brought you to CrossFit as an athlete, and what keeps you coming back?
I’ve enjoyed lifting weights since junior high, so CrossFit was a natural fit once I finally finished school. It’s a great way to start my day and a real outlet for stress. What keeps me coming back is the competition, the community, and the culture here.
2. What accomplishment in the gym are you most proud of so far as an athlete?
The accomplishment I’m most proud of is making the CrossFit Quarterfinals, along with our team’s win at the Depot competition.
3. What is your favorite movement or workout — and your least favorite?
Favorite: cleans. Least favorite: burpees, obviously.
5. What advice would you give to someone who is brand new to CrossFit?
My advice would be to absorb everything the coaches tell you and learn how to pace yourself. Figuring out how not to redline is one of the most important skills.
https://www.youtube.com/@lincolncrossfit