At Lincoln Nutrition & Fitness: Home of CrossFit Lincoln, we celebrate athletes who embody our values—and this month, we’re proud to recognize Ashley Reiter!
Ashley is a single mom who consistently shows up, works hard, and brings an incredible attitude to every class. Her dedication is inspiring—she’s made noticeable progress in multiple areas, from lifting heavier weights to improving her form and mechanics across a wide range of movements. Not only is she getting stronger, but she’s also seeing visible changes in her muscle definition as a result of her commitment.
Ashley’s presence makes our community stronger. Her positivity, resilience, and work ethic truly reflect what it means to be part of the CFL family. Congrats, Ashley—you’ve earned it!
Tell us a little about yourself. Where are you from? What do you do for a living/study? Feel free to add more.
I was born in Toledo, OH but moved to Memphis, TN when I was 8. Lived in Memphis until I was 16, when we moved to Lincoln. Attended college in Belmont, NC. I went to school for Motorsports Management and helped open the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, NC. Moved back to Lincoln in 2013 for a job opportunity. I am currently the Licensing/Finance Assistant for the Nebraska Secretary of State. I am a single mom with a very active 8 year old son. I am very passionate about hockey and cheer on the Carolina Hurricanes.
How did you find out about Lincoln Nutrition & Fitness?
I started my fitness journey by losing 60 lbs and was doing just cardio workouts in 2020, but knew I needed accountability. I started searching for local gyms that had classes to go to. I had an ad pop up on my Facebook for a class called Ignite which was described as Crossfit light (no barbells). I reached out through the ad and got in contact with Emily who was the coach of the class. I met with her the next day and started going to class 3 days a week in the morning.
What was the biggest obstacle for you to start as an athlete here?
I tend to be an introvert until I feel comfortable around people so joining any gym was outside of my comfort zone.
How did you overcome that obstacle?
I knew I needed the accountable so I just kept showing up for classes.
Do you remember your first workout?
I don’t remember my first workout, but I remember how sore I was all week after that workout.
Who have your coaches been? How have they helped you through your first year of CrossFit?
I have done workouts with every coach at the gym at least once but my main coaches have been Emily, Austin, Landon, and Heather. They all make you feel comfortable. Even when I first started and had to squat to a 24 inch box I never felt like I was being judged. They have all been great at helping me scale but also pushing me to go above that. I started at the gym with no intention of picking up a barbell but during personal training Austin convinced me to try and I am so thankful for that little nudge.
Why do you keep coming back to Lincoln Nutrition & Fitness?
Everything from the workouts, to the coaches, and the other members. Also the feeling accomplishment when I hit a PR or fine tune a move and hit it right.
How do you balance health and fitness with a busy schedule? How do you stay so consistent in the gym?
As a single mom I have had to adjust my schedule around my son and when he is at his dad’s. There are times when my son will come to the gym with me. I always schedule what classes I am going to attend at least a week out since I am less likely to cancel if I have had the time set for awhile.
How does CrossFit help you with your job? How does CrossFit affect the rest of your life?
I have a desk job so getting that movement in during the week helps me destress and feel better. In the rest of my life Crossfit has made me a better parent to my son. It was always one of my goals to not be a sideline parent. I wanted to be active with my son and I have that energy and strength now.
What is your favorite thing about Lincoln Nutrition & Fitness: Home of CrossFit Lincoln?
The community. I started at the gym 2 weeks before COVID shut down everything and during the shutdown I got a glimpse into the community that the gym was. The community has only grown and gotten better over the years. I have met some amazing people who have become friends outside of the gym and helped me during some hard times and I will forever be thankful to the gym that brought us together.
