When Nick joined our community in April 2021, he wasn’t a stranger to hard work or intense training. After all, his military background had given him a solid foundation in high-intensity interval training (HIIT). But there was something about CrossFit that intrigued him, especially the Olympic lifts, and he wanted to see where this new challenge would lead him. He wanted to see if this new method of working out would be effective in building strength.
Here’s a look into Nick’s journey, the highs and the lessons, and how CrossFit Dwell has become more than just a place to work out—it’s a community that’s helping him become the strongest version of himself.
What Surprised Him Most
What Nick expected? Tough workouts, sweat, and effort. What he didn’t expect? The incredible sense of community. “Yes and then some,” Nick said when asked if CrossFit Dwell met his expectations. “I expected challenging workouts but didn’t expect to meet so many really great and supportive people.”
If you’re anything like Nick, you thrive on connection. At CrossFit Dwell, it’s not just about the reps and sets—it’s about the people by your side, cheering you on. The coaches here play a huge role in that experience. They don’t just run classes—they want you to see progress. From helping you master your form on Olympic lifts to adjusting a workout when you’re not feeling 100%, they’ve got your back. Nick especially appreciates how the coaches take the time to get to know him, offering personalized guidance when needed.
Whether you’re pushing through a tough WOD or figuring out when to scale, the coaches ensure you’re moving safely while still being challenged. Whether by offering a pointer to improve his form or simply a word of encouragement to keep him going, our coaches take their role seriously. It’s that blend of expertise and genuine care that sets us apart.
If you’ve ever been unsure about trying something new, or wondered whether you could keep up with the intensity of a CrossFit workout, the coaches are here to guide and support you. They’re not just pushing you through the workout—they’re coaching you, helping you build confidence and make steady progress toward your goals.
The Benefits Beyond Strength
One of the biggest changes Nick has noticed is his improved core strength, which has led to fewer back issues. This wasn’t a quick fix—it was the result of his consistent work on functional movements like squats, deadlifts, and kettlebell swings. These movements target muscles we use daily, helping improve posture, stability, and overall strength.
Nick’s stronger core now helps him with everyday tasks, like lifting groceries, with less pain and more confidence. This is a common benefit many of our athletes experience—CrossFit’s focus on functional movements builds a strong foundation that carries over into real life, whether it’s climbing stairs, moving heavy objects, or playing with kids.
But the benefits of fitness go beyond the physical. As Nick puts it, “Fitness impacts every aspect of life.” Feeling good in the gym translates to feeling better in everyday life. Nick’s energy levels have increased, giving him more enthusiasm to keep up with his son and handle daily tasks with ease. His improved fitness has boosted his confidence, which shows up not only in his workouts but in his relationships and interactions with others.
“When you feel good about yourself, you project that into the world,” Nick explains. His higher confidence doesn’t just stay in the gym—it shows up across every area of his life. Whether it’s playing with his son or meeting new people, the better shape he’s in, the more positive and energetic he feels, making life outside the gym even more rewarding.
His Proudest Moment
Recently, fitness became more than a solo journey for Nick. One of his proudest moments has been bringing his middle school-aged son to workouts. “Hopefully, I’m instilling the love of fitness into his lifestyle,” Nick said. Their shared workouts have strengthened not just their bodies, but their bond. Watching Nick encourage his son, Ian, and watching Ian test out new skills and excel at them has been one of the highlights of my week!
This father-son time allows Nick to teach valuable lessons about discipline and hard work. Watching his son do the same workouts has been incredibly rewarding, and it’s clear the experience is building his son’s confidence and appreciation for fitness.
Facing Challenges and Overcoming Them
Like many athletes, Nick’s competitive nature sometimes got the better of him. His biggest challenge was learning that it’s okay to scale movements, especially as he gets older. “Don’t let your competitive spirit get you injured during AMRAPs trying to get those last few reps,” he advises.
It’s an important lesson: scaling workouts isn’t about weakness but about being smart. By listening to his body, Nick has stayed consistent and injury-free. Fitness is about showing up, making smart choices, and understanding that real progress comes from long-term commitment, not short-term strain.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Nick
When asked about his future goals, Nick’s answer was simple yet profound: “Be the best version of me, both physically, mentally, and spiritually.” For Nick, fitness isn’t just about hitting new personal records or building muscle—it’s about becoming stronger in every aspect of life. We believe in holistic health, understanding that true fitness goes beyond physical strength. It’s also about cultivating mental resilience and emotional well-being.
Nick’s focus on spiritual growth alongside his physical and mental goals highlights the importance of a well-rounded approach to health. It’s a reminder that wellness is a journey, and each piece of the puzzle plays a vital role in how we feel and perform every day. Nick’s journey is a great reminder that fitness is a lifelong commitment, and every step forward counts.
Nick’s Advice to Anyone Starting Out
Looking back, what would Nick tell his past self or someone new to CrossFit Dwell? “Have fun, stay consistent, and realize not every day will be a PR day…. That’s ok!” It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Enjoy the ride, and most importantly—never stop moving.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
If Nick’s story resonates with you and you’re ready to experience the community, challenge, and transformation CrossFit Dwell offers, let’s chat! Schedule your free intro, and let’s work together to build the best version of you—physically, mentally, and beyond.
Never stop moving.