Each month we shine a spotlight on one of our amazing athletes who embodies the values of Lincoln Nutrition & Fitness. This month, we’re proud to introduce Madison Stoner. Here’s their story in their own words.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I come from a family of 6 as the youngest child with three older brothers, making me the only daughter and obviously the family favorite. I joined the NE Army National Guard as a 17-year-old in my junior year of high school. I have since served over 6 years and continue to serve.
My role in the Guard is providing logistical support as a 92A (Automated Logistics Specialist) supporting an Airborne Infantry Battalion. On the civilian side, I work as the Events Operations Specialist at the Museum of American Speed here in Lincoln, NE. The museum offers an extensive collection of racing and automotive history with around 250,000 sq. ft. of display space. If you need a unique place to hold an event, give me a call!
I am also pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Emergency Management and Homeland Security to one day pursue a career supporting national security and disaster response.
What Led You to Lincoln Nutrition & Fitness and Were There Any Obstacles?
I found out about LNF after I realised I did not thrive working out on my own. I had just graduated from high school and without my regular involvement in organised sports, I was struggling to find a workout routine that fit my needs. Traditional gyms caused a lot of anxiety, and I fell into a hole of unhealthy habits—afraid to enter any gym. My biggest obstacle was entering the gym for the first time, then realizing the cost…
As someone who used to be very introverted, a new gym was quite terrifying. To overcome that obstacle, I just made it a goal to make it through the doors once. If I hated it, I’d never have to go back.
However, Coach Austin did my intro/onboarding classes with me, and each time I entered those doors my fears slipped away. It became very apparent this was not a typical gym—it was a family, a chance to be a part of something larger than myself.
As for overcoming the cost, a big thing that stood out to me was (I believe it was Coach Emily) who put it into perspective: paying that fee per month can save a lifetime of possible medical bills. It also pushed me to come more consistently, because when I broke down the cost per month to classes I could attend, each class I missed became “wasted money.
Tell Us About Your Coaches at Lincoln Nutrition & Fitness
I have been coached by nearly all of the coaches at LNF at some point, however Coach Austin was my main coach when I first started, and now it’s Coach Erin, Coach Derek, and Coach Taylor.
The coaches are all insanely good at what they do, and I love how they all put their own personality into each class. After experiencing a move and how coaching is done at various other gyms, I quickly realised how spoiled I was at LNF. They all truly care about you, your safety, and your growth.
Why do you keep coming back to Lincoln Nutrition & Fitness?
I have had an interesting few years at LNF since first joining in 2021 with new jobs, a deployment, and a year living in Virginia. However, the LNF community has always welcomed me back with open arms. Sorry to my friends and family, but LNF was one of the main things I missed anytime I had to leave Nebraska. I love the atmosphere and the variety of workouts I get.
How do you balance being an athlete with a busy schedule & how do you stay so consistent in the gym as an athlete?
I balance health and fitness with my busy schedule by getting my workouts in early. I’ve made the 6am class a main priority to start my days. It leaves me feeling energized and ready for whatever comes next.
I also make it a priority because if I don’t make it in, it really throws me off—and I’m sure if you asked my wife, she would have a few things to say about how she can tell I need a workout.
How does CrossFit help you with your job and your everyday life?
CrossFit allows me to maintain a well-balanced level of fitness. It correlates well with the Army fitness testing, so being consistent at LNF helps me ensure I maintain the standard.
It also helps keep me active so I can physically do whatever is needed from me—whether that’s in the Army or at the Museum.
What is your favourite thing about Lincoln Nutrition & Fitness: Home of CrossFit Lincoln?
My favorite thing about LNF is the people. It truly is an extraordinary community, and everyone cares about each other in and out of the gym.
We are so thankful to have Madison in our community and that she chose us even through all the changes of her life! If her story inspired you come chat with us!
Check out other athletes of the month:
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lincolncrossfit/featured