december athlete of the month Becky pull ups

Becky Impens – December Athlete of the Month 2025

Becky first showed up to cheer on her son—and ended up falling in love with our community, too. Nearly a year later, she’s already crushed 100 classes, consistently finds time in her busy schedule to show up for herself as an athlete, and even gets to share the fun with her 15-year-old son in class.

A true role model, Becky is hardworking, eager to learn, and a joy to coach. We’re so grateful to have her as part of our gym family! Read more about Becky’s story below!

Tell us a little about your background (where you are from, schooling, work, athlete, etc.)

I’m from the small town of Hampton, NE, where I grew up with three older brothers who toughened me up early. I’m now married with three kids and—just as important—a doodle who genuinely believes he’s the fourth.

I’m a medical massage therapist, and my work focuses heavily on chronic pain, scar tissue, lymphedema, inflammation, and post-surgical recovery. I don’t offer the typical deep-tissue or spa-style relaxation massage you find in most places—my practice is clinical, restorative, and functional. Helping people move, heal, and feel better is truly what I love.


What first brought you to CrossFit, and what keeps you coming back?

Honestly, I came to CrossFit because of my middle kid. He’s not my “sports kid,” and I wanted him to have something active to do outside the house—something that would give him a foundation for a healthier lifestyle.

I specifically wanted a gym with real coaching, where form matters and people aren’t just pushed through workouts without guidance. The original plan was simple: I’d join him for the first three months to help him get comfortable and make sure the gym was a good fit. Then I’d go back to my morning workouts at home while he continued on his own.

Unfortunately for Payton… I fell in love with CrossFit.
So he’s stuck with me. 😄

I’ve since cut out my morning workouts entirely, swapped them for longer dog walk/run sessions, and I genuinely look forward to the evening classes with him. The environment, the energy, and the community are what keep me coming back.


What accomplishment in the gym are you most proud of so far?

I’m proud that I’ve been able to consistently increase my weight without triggering an old injury. That alone feels like a huge win. But I’m equally proud that this is something I get to do with my son—and knowing he enjoys it too makes it even better.


What is your favorite movement or workout — and your least favorite?

My favorite movements are rope climbs and deadlifts—the perfect blend of strength and grit.
My least favorite? Burpees. Forever and always. No explanation needed.


How has CrossFit impacted your life outside the gym?

CrossFit has made me physically stronger, but even more than that, it has made me feel more confident in my body. It’s also given me consistent bonding time with Payton, which has become one of my favorite parts of my week.


What advice would you give to someone who’s brand new to CrossFit?

CrossFit is truly for everyone, no matter where you’re starting from. Every workout can be scaled or modified to meet you exactly where you are in your fitness journey. Even though CrossFit has a reputation for being “crazy hard,” it’s really only as intense as you choose to make it.

And don’t worry—you’re not doing this alone. The coaches are basically the helicopter parents of the fitness world (in the best possible way). They’re constantly watching your form, keeping you safe, and helping you find the right modifications so you get the most out of each workout.

If you just show up, stay open, and trust the process, you’ll be amazed at what you can do.

Emilys mess around file 2025 11 25T054436.008 1
JJ TEMPLATES NMMmilestonesPRs postmthlychallengetestimonWORKOUT 5 2
https://crossfitlincoln.com/free-intro-social/