November Athlete of the Month: Beth Wilson

Congratulations Beth, you’re our November Athlete of the Month!

Beth is so many things to our NoCoast community. First and foremost, she is an outstanding athlete who is approaching 10 years of CrossFitting and is a NoCoast fire breather! Beth is also one of our amazing coaches who loves working with our athletes at every level. She has a heart and passion for coaching and it is apparent in her interactions with each NoCoast athlete. She has been coaching since she joined our community and we can’t thank her enough for all that she does for our athletes and community! On top of all that, she is an amazing friend and loved one . . . She juggles a lot between being a wife and mom, a full time nurse, coach, and taking care of herself on top of it all! We are proud of you and grateful for you, Beth!

Quotes from Beth:

“For several years, I was weighing and measuring everything I ate, counting macros, not drinking alcohol, and eating very clean/nothing processed. I learned a lot and I felt good, but it wasn't sustainable for me. With a history of disordered eating, and now a daughter, my focus is on the 80/20 rule. I cook when I can, I prioritize eating balanced meals, and I put an emphasis on the whole family eating together.”

“I love new athletes - they are always so excited to learn, and it's so fun to watch the progress they make in the first few weeks. I also enjoy working with our seasoned athletes; it's rewarding to watch them master a new skill, hit a PR, or talk to them about their fitness journey. “

Age: 38? I lose track

Athletic/Sports history/highlights:

My biggest accomplishment was finishing the Boulder 70.3 Ironman in August 2022 (10 months postpartum). I swam in high school and started lifting weights in college. I've completed a few half marathons, one marathon, and one Tough Mudder.

How long have you been CrossFitting?

It'll be 10 years in March 2024.

How did you get into CrossFit?

I wanted to do CrossFit when we lived in North Carolina, but several factors prevented me from making it a reality. I moved to Colorado a few months before my now husband moved out here, and he encouraged me to join a gym as a way to make friends. And boy, I have made A LOT of CrossFit friends over the years :)

What is your favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?

WOD= Fran, Movement= Squat Cleans or Pull Ups (which is probably why I like Fran...)

What is your least favorite WOD/CrossFit movement?

Heavy Snatches.

What is your most memorable CrossFit moment?

Sooooo many memorable moments, it's hard to pick just one! The first one that comes to mind is Open Workout 20.5--Which was: For time, partitioned any way: 40 muscle-ups 80-cal. row 120 wall-balls. Muscle ups are not a strong movement for me, and being a 5'2" female, that volume of rowing and wall balls was just rude. I finished all of the reps before the time cap and was able to submit a score. It was a huge personal win for me as an athlete.

How does nutrition play a role in your fitness and recovery?

For several years, I was weighing and measuring everything I ate, counting macros, not drinking alcohol, and eating very clean/nothing processed. I learned a lot and I felt good, but it wasn't sustainable for me. With a history of disordered eating, and now a daughter, my focus is on the 80/20 rule. I cook when I can, I prioritize eating balanced meals, and I put an emphasis on the whole family eating together. I'm terrible at recovery - I don't sleep enough, I don't warm up or mobilize as much as I should, and I definitely do not drink enough water. However, I do take 1-2 days off/week so I can prioritize things like sleep, relaxing, and eating something green.

How has CrossFit improved your overall wellness?

Obvious things like good nutrition, attempts at recovery, and being physically active have contributed to my overall wellness. But being a CrossFit athlete, and coach, has helped me gain a lot of confidence, in and out of the gym.

How has CrossFit changed your family?

CrossFit hasn't necessarily changed my family, but I hope it helps shape our future as an active, community driven, educated, and healthy family.

What do you like most about coaching?

I love new athletes - they are always so excited to learn, and it's so fun to watch the progress they make in the first few weeks. I also enjoy working with our seasoned athletes; it's rewarding to watch them master a new skill, hit a PR, or talk to them about their fitness journey.

Advice to new people:

Stay in your lane and don't compare yourself to others. Progress isn't linear. Have fun, show up (consistently), and welcome to the NoCoast family!