Spotlight Athlete

Age: 38

Started at The Box HTX: Caren took her “foundations” classes at our original space on Westheimer in 2017. She is pretty freakin’ OG.

Caren has been with us a looooong time. She is one of my go-to members/friends when I need something done for the gym. I have admired and appreciated her commitment through the inevitable peaks and valleys of her wellness journey. She has earned this spotlight because of her consistency over the years. Unless she is travelling I know I will see Caren five, usually six, days a week in the gym. She is a great boxmate who is encouraging and helpful to everyone who comes through our doors. I am beyond grateful to call her my friend.

How did you get started with this style of training?

I remember the first time I reached out about checking out the gym. I was not in a great place in so many ways, and I was just ready for a change. A little while prior, a friend had told me about 29-95 and the AMAZING (and really cute) female coaches and thought I would enjoy checking it out! I wanted to put myself out there, meet new people and try something I hadn't done before. I am so very grateful I found this place when I did and have been able to be a member for so many years. I enjoy that no day is the same; I am constantly learning something new. It's amazing to see the growth I have experienced in the last 9 years.

I really enjoy the Olympic lifts and am so grateful I was here at a time when there was an Olympic lifting class. I learned these movements from some of the best (other spotlight athletes Buffie and Joseph being two of them)! These movements are not something everyone just gets immediately. They are something you must work on consistently and learn each step of the movement to get better at them. I also love anything overhead, my favorite being the split jerk. I just feel so powerful when I do those. Lastly, I have a love/hate relationship with double unders. I worked so long and hard to learn how to do them and there are always days when the double unders just don't double under.

You get into the gym consistently each week. How far in advance do you plan your training schedule? Where on your daily priority list does training fit?

I know without even thinking about it, I'm going to get to the gym 5-6 days/week. It's absolutely a top priority for me every day. I have always told myself that I need to get to the gym before I do anything else. I was mostly always a 4:30pm class girl, but once I discovered that I actually do like going in at 6am, I know I have zero excuses about getting to the gym. A lot of people don't understand, but The Box has always felt like a second home to me. I want to be there every day, and I choose to be there every day. I will always have a day or two when I don't make it in, but I will not allow myself to have many of those days.

You have had a discectomy within your time with The Box HTX. How has your back been since that surgery? And what things do you avoid or modify to keep your back safe? Are there exercises you do that help your back feel better?

I'd say most of the time my back feels mostly ok. I have good days and bad days. Some days I feel like I just don't move very well. Prior to surgery there were many days when it took so long for me just to get out of bed, so I'm thankful I haven't had to experience that since then. I try really hard not to modify movements, but I do know my limitations. Deadlifts and squats are two movements that can really give me trouble, so I've learned to be ok with the numbers I can put up on those movements. I also know that moving helps keep me from getting stiff and sore, so I try to just keep moving. Even just a short walk helps!

Having been with us so long, what changes have you enjoyed most about training at The Box HTX? Through the years what events have stuck with you as most enjoyable?

I sat with this question for a good while and was having a hard time thinking about what changes I have enjoyed most. I keep thinking about what hasn't changed in my time here, and that is the most caring group of humans I get to be a part of. Through all of life's ups and downs, we all take care of each other. We work hard together and we have fun together. I wouldn't trade the people I have gotten to meet here for anything.

I have always enjoyed anytime we do a throwdown/competition. I love getting to compete against my friends! It's always fun after the competition to sit around and complement each other on a job well done. Especially when someone tells me they didn't know I could move that fast. I certainly don't hear that very often!!

You are kind enough to step in and coach for us on days that Jess can't make it in, tell us what you enjoy most about working with our members when in that coaching role?

I have always had a love for coaching and am so grateful that I was given the opportunity to coach classes at The Box. When I started here, I had amazing coaches who taught and helped me so much, so now I want to be able to be a part of someone else's journey. I think coaching isn't just about teaching a movement, but about motivating others to just keep going even when you think you can't. It's helping people see they are so much stronger than they think they are. My hope is that anyone who walks through the gym knows that I am rooting for them to find the best version of themselves.

If you had the opportunity to address a group of people who are currently not working out about the benefits of consistent TRAINING what might you say to them?

Motivation usually comes after you start, not before, so just start! You have to show up for yourself in a way that is manageable and meaningful to you. No one else is going to do that for you. Just start moving consistently -- even if it's something small. Then continue to build on that foundation. The benefit it simple; it's you creating a healthier life for yourself.

She is a sit-up queen.

She has an eye for proper technique on the Olympic Lifts, get her feedback if she is around you.

She is the best newbie partner because of her patience, kindness, and laid back personality.

She most definitely has a “throwdown” mode in her arsenal. She can bring it when she wants to. Don’t be fooled.

She is a lover of all cats. 🐈

She has her real estate license and can help you sell or buy a home. 🏠

She loves big crowds and tight spaces… and lots of hugs. This is a lie, she does not love these things.

She loves her Irish heritage. 🍀

Age: 32 (+16)

Started at The Box HTX: Longest Member She opened this gym up with me. 1/1/2016

Buffie is a cornerstone of my journey with this gym. She is the last of the original gangsters that started the gym with me. Others have shifted gears, had life changes, moved on to different training styles, but Buffie has been with me through ALL the highs and lows of owning a business and life in general for that matter. My gratitude for her loyalty and friendship is beyond measurable. She is as close as a sister can be without shared DNA to me. I am so happy to share her story with y’all. For the 14 years I have known her she has been as consistent as they come. Enjoy.

How did you get started with this style of training?

My best friend! I was about a year out from the death of my husband, and Meg thought I needed something productive to help fill my time. She was absolutely right—it gave me an outlet and a sense of purpose when I really needed it. It was an hour out of my day where I was able to shut off my thoughts and focus only on exercise not grief. Her encouragement led me to this new style of training, which led to the friends that would become my tribe, both of which have become an essential part of my life.

“I’m down for most movements—it would honestly be easier to list the ones I believe to be Satan’s work… wall climbs. I love barbell movements and don’t mind dumbbells either. There’s just something really empowering about getting stronger and seeing progress there.”

You get into the gym consistently each week. You have a busy home life and balance a lot. Can you share how you got to this place of consistency?

I make my gym time a priority, and it was an established boundary when I entered my relationship with Carl. He understands and respects how important it is for both my physical and mental well-being. We really work as a team—he works out in the morning, and I go in the evening. I know that to be the best mother and partner I can be, I need to be happy and healthy, and this is a big part of that.

Perimenopause can throw the body off kilter in all sorts of ways. What benefits do you find you get from this style of training to help you cope with this challenging phase of life?

This style of training helps me feel grounded when everything else feels unpredictable. It keeps me strong, helps regulate my mood, manage stress, maintain energy, and gives me a sense of control over my body. Even on days when I don’t feel my best, showing up and moving makes a huge difference mentally and physically. The consistent exercise routine has provided stability and resilience, making it easier to navigate the physical and emotional fluctuations associated with this stage of life.

Having been with us so long, you have trained with us before, through, and after pregnancy. Can you tell us a little bit about how that was for you and what were some of the benefits you noticed because of it?

Having a baby at 43 was undoubtedly a challenge, but my training prepared me well. Staying fit during my pregnancy was a priority, as I knew it would help with delivery and recovery. After needing a C-section, my focus shifted to rebuilding core strength and enhancing endurance to keep pace with my growing baby. Training provided the strength and confidence I needed throughout this journey.

Having your son see you in this environment, what kinds of messages do you hope you are sending him as he watches his mom train?

I hope he sees that taking care of yourself is important and that strength—both physical and mental—matters. I want him to grow up knowing that health is a priority, that showing up for yourself is powerful. And that women are strong, capable, and resilient! All of which will make him a better man and partner some day.

If you could put a billboard up in the area to try to get people to give this style of training a shot, what would it say?

STRONGER THAN YOU THINK. START NOW!

STRONG AF!

One of the two strongest women in our gym on all barbell movements.

305# Deadlift

235# Back Squat

145# Bench Press

160# Clean

155# Clean and Jerk

Has won every In-House Competition I have hosted in the 10 years of owning this gym.

Is a credentialed coach who fills in when life takes me away from the gym.

Challenges her box mates to be the best versions of themselves.

Age: 43

Started at The Box HTX: August 2017

I met Joseph back at our original starting CrossFit gym. We were both new to the scene and enjoying the process of discovering what we were capable of. Over the years, as we both gained experience, it was easy to see how helpful and easy going Joseph was when engaging with other members. He had a very natural way about him. He was generous with his knowledge and shared experiences with other members. In 2016, when I branched out and started my own gym I remembered thinking how he was one of the people I wished I could bring with me. Fast forward about a year and a half and we moved our location closer to our original gym and in turn closer to Joseph’s residence. I mentioned to him how I would love for him to be a coach at our place and over the course of the next couple of months he transitioned over to us full time. It has been a blessing ever since.

What originally drew him to this style of training:

“Variety and planned workouts”

Joseph is the definition of consistent. I KNOW that if he is in town, he WILL be at the gym every weekday. He works out five days a week without fail. Usually an afternoon attendee, but if Joseph has plans that conflict he WILL come to the early morning classes.

With so many excuses available, he never chooses that route. Training is part of his day. This is what we should all be shooting for.

“Deadlift and Power Cleans”

He excels at many others such as burpees, box jumps, pistols, and squats. If you saw his quads you’s see why. 😉

“I make it part of my weekly routine. I don’t downplay the importance of it to my physical and mental health. I have a job that is mostly sitting but is also mentally exhausting and draining. I need this outlet to create a balance for well-being.”

“High: Making my first rope climb. I hated doing these back in the day when we had the physical fitness tests in PE because I couldn’t do it. It was such a high when you make your goals—no matter how long it takes.

Low: Having surgery for a torn muscle. It feels like such a setback during recovery and physical therapy. This is when you really have to dig deep to keep motivated, stubborn, and persistent.”

“I love sharing what I know and have learned. Getting that certification helped me to learn to be observant and motivating so that I can help others.”

“Travel. Having the energy and being mobile so I can enjoy going to places and seeing the world.”

“I’m sticking with it. If anything would stop me, it would be because it’s something beyond my control.”

Age: 42

Started at The Box HTX: August, 2023

Alicia is our first Spotlight Athlete of 2026 because she is the ONLY member who earned all 12-months of our Fully Committed Club in 2025. Meaning she got to the gym a minimum of 17 classes per month and walked 10k steps 5 out of seven days a week EVERY week of the year. She is the definition of consistency. She managed to this with 3 school age children, a full-time job, and all the responsibilities that go along with those and the rest of life. She is not about excuses. She shows up.

Her exercise background:

“I’ve always lived an active lifestyle. I played sports as a child and throughout high school. As an adult, I’ve done both CrossFit and Camp Gladiator, and those experiences have kept me moving and challenged.”

The characteristic which I, as the leader of this wellness community, wish I could sprinkle on every one of my members is the no excuses Alicia brings to her exercise. If she has events or plans after school, she comes in the morning. If she has the kids, she brings them along (great example to them). If she goes out of town, she has a plan to get her workouts in. She puts her mind to something and nothing will stand in her way. This is how she is wired, but can also be learned. She is an incredible example of what I would wish for every exerciser to mimic.

“I enjoy the Olympic lifts, even though I’m not great at all of them yet. I like the challenge and the opportunity to learn and improve. I also enjoy (for the most part😉) the high-intensity, heavy-breathing cardio days — those workouts always leave me feeling accomplished because they push my endurance and mental toughness.”

“Consistency comes from planning ahead. I schedule my workouts around work and my kids activities and try to stick to that routine as best I can. Fully committing to my fitness journey has changed my mindset — instead of debating whether to go, I’ve already decided. I treat my workouts as a priority. Making that commitment is what keeps me consistent week after week.”

“Strict pull-ups are a big one for me! When I first started, I never thought I’d be able to do even one. After consistent training over the past two years, I was able to do two in a row recently! It’s incredibly rewarding to see that progress come to life, and it keeps me motivated to keep showing up.”

It should also be noted that the first time she tried a rope climb, after years of training, she did a full one and now does them in our workouts. #consistency

“I’d tell them to just start. Fitness makes you feel better, builds confidence, and improves your overall quality of life. The key is finding something you enjoy and committing to it.”

“I see my fitness journey as something I’ll continue to prioritize long-term. Staying active and consistent is important to me, and I know it will make everyday life easier and more enjoyable as I get older.”

“The coaches and community at The Box HTX are what keep me coming back. It truly feels like a small family, and that support makes it easier to stay consistent and show up every day.”

Age: 44

Started at The Box HTX: July 30th, 2023

I am writing this because Bryan is an introvert who doesn’t like to talk about himself. But his story is a really good one. It hasn't been a smooth process AT ALL. He was pretty inconsistent in the beginning. He was unsure of his capabilities and very hesitant to challenge himself. In his first month he was pretty consistent with 3x-week. In his second month, he showed up TWO times total. And in his third month he did not show up one time. Not the smoothest start we’ve ever had.

After not renewing with us for his fourth month, understandably so, he reached out on November 10th, 2023 and said he wanted to rejoin us with an all in attitude. We got him signed back up and he was off to the races. Getting in 5 classes a week for that remaining month and the next two months. Tracking his nutrition and putting in the work, Bryan was down about 50 pounds. In February of 2024, things started to get a bit inconsistent again. This shit is hard… it is not always smooth sailing. Life comes along and throws us curve balls and Bryan saw his share. In March 2024 he made it to 10 classes total.

For the 8-months Bryan hit about 16-17 classes a month. A solid performance, but still very unsure of his abilities with strength and endurance alike. He still struggled to make it through workouts and feel confident at the heavier weights he was capable of moving. His nutrition took a back seat, and other choices he admits were not the best ones for a successful journey. The path is NEVER smooth. We are all trying to juggle work, relationships, finances, family, and Bryan was not the exception. But he stayed with it. He did not quit.

After struggling with consistency closing out 2024, Bryan started this year with Personal Training sessions… 1-3 sessions per week all the way through May. He was hanging on… still not giving up. By June of this year he was ready to transition back into classes. Starting out with the goal of 4 classes per week and quickly moving to 5, Bryan has not looked back.

While Bryan has upped his attendance at the gym, he has also set boundaries in relationships, tracks his nutrition, and stopped consuming alcohol all together. His moods are lighter, he has more energy, and is working out with every level athlete in our community… something that was not a possibility a year ago.

He has goals and milestones he would like to attain… and this time around he is taking it one day at a time and focusing on doing the small things consistently.

Bryan loves long grinding odd object workouts. Sleds, heavy ball, wreck bags, farmer’s carry… he loves to move heavy weights.

He is strong AF. And still even stronger than he knows. I have been LOVING how he is now challenging himself on our strength days. This is something he can do now because of his consistency. The breathing is better allowing him to dial in on the weights.

Today, December 10th, he ran with a 60# Wreck Bag. Yesterday, we had a slew of 100m runs and he ran ALL of them. It was incredible to watch!

Whatever Bryan wants. He knows he has what it takes now. He has his daily routine starting well before our 5am class together. He knows what works. He is not looking for short-cuts but rather putting in the work to make the life he wants.

One thing life teaches us is that challenges will always arise. But the more you stick to your good habits, the easier those challenges are to overcome or get through. Bet on YOU! As Bryan likes to remind us… YOU are the only one who can save yourself.

It has been and continues to be a great honor to have Bryan choose us as his community. He’s picky with who he spends time with, and I am so grateful we make the cut. He is incredibly kind, generous, and loyal. He is a teddy bear and I love that I have been able to experience his journey through morning hugs and frustrating workouts. Most of all I LOVE to see that smile on his face. He has earned it.

Lesson to take away from this month’s spotlight athlete… NEVER GIVE UP! You may mis-step or need a little break, but NEVER QUIT. Your life depends on it!

Age: 33

Started Functional Fitnessing: 2016

Started at The Box HTX: August 2021

No, I was looking for a new gym community to join after switching jobs.

Erica had previously trained this style. She was experienced coming to us.

When I don’t go to the gym I start feeling off. I don’t feel good about myself. So I decided the best thing for me was to keep showing up everyday. It’s now just part of my everyday life routine. It also helps having a fiance who shares the love for the gym with me.

Side note: Erica didn’t think she deserved this spotlight. But her consistency over the last four years is EXACTLY WHY she has earned this recognition. This process isn’t about being perfect. It is about being consistent and continuing to show up even when the results don’t happen as fast as we want them too.

“Show up for yourself. Not everyone has the chance to move their body freely.”

Snatches, squats, push press/jerks, bench presses.

She loves her a barbell.

Proper push ups and most recently a 20” box jump.

Still kicking ass and lifting heavy shit.

Coach Jess and the awesome community she’s created.

Age: 63

Exercise Experience: 27 years of Soccer

Started at The Box HTX: May 2020

Yes, I was a little afraid of past knee injuries, but in reality it was the opposite as my legs got stronger the discomfort in my knees decreased over time.

For me, the gym is now an important part of my daily life, it's like my breakfast, since I like to exercise in the mornings. And it makes me feel physically, mentally, and emotionally strong.

I highly recommend they should do it for their health and to feel good, even to look good.

I like all the movements. If there are any that I can't perform, there is always a scaled progression to move me toward doing them as prescribed.

Jumping on the 20" box and climbing the rope. It was a lot of work for me to perform these because of my knee injuries, but now I can do them.

I want to continue with this style of functional exercise. I want to be active and hang on to my independence for as long as possible.

The support of the community and the guidance of Coach Jess have been invaluable to me. Learning all the movements with Coach Jess’s direction has been especially important, as it helps prevent any injuries.

Age: 33

Exercise Experience: 5 Years

Started at The Box HTX: 8/18/2021

I was very hesitant to start working out. My girlfriend had to convince me for weeks before I agreed to entertain the idea. I dreaded attending my first trial class at The Box HTX. I have always been petite and weight has never been a motivator. My inhibitions were all mental. I feared I did not have the discipline to push through the difficult learning stage of working out.

It’s a lifestyle. I am committed to myself. When I started working out, I realized I had plenty of work to do. I started with 5-6 afternoon classes and noticed my progression. Mentally I have associated my progression with my consistency. Even when life throws curveballs at me, I refuse to reduce my class attendance. Currently I attend 5-6 morning classes to better fit my schedule. Once that mindset sets in then the rest is like clockwork: drinking water, meal prepping and getting to bed early. Also, the monthly gym payment is a reminder. I pay for unlimited classes so I better get my money's worth.

Health is not something that is given to us, we must maintain and nourish it. It is better to start sooner rather than later. Find something that works for you, either a commercial gym or a more structured training program. There is so much variety when it comes to levels of fitness. You are worthy of investing in yourself and providing that service to your body.

Barbell! Squats, snatches and cleans . I love the complexity of the movements. They require coordination, flexibility and power. I feel very accomplished once I execute the movement and find it's a continued euphoric feeling when I hit certain weights/numbers. Lifting can be intimidating when competing against others, but not when your are competing against yourself.

Squat. I use to have horrible plantar fasciitis and no range of mobility. I always thought at best, I could work towards squatting at parallel. Now I can front squat and back squat my own weight well below parallel with no feet discomfort.

Pull-ups. I did not even think this movement was obtainable. Coach Jess does an amazing job at curating our training ( making us do things we sometimes don't want to do but should do). She knew what I was capable of before I did. My upper body strength was at a place that it could sustain my body weight.

DHonestly, in 5 years, I see my fitness journey in the same course as it is now. Consistency is the thing that works for me. This course has and will take me to achieve new movements (perhaps gymnastics) and PR's. I hope to still be doing it at The Box HTX with my friends, si Dios quiere.

The community. It is the absolute best. Each member is so motivating and loving. I cannot miss a day without someone checking in to make sure all is well and that I will be at the next class. My social bonds are solid. We suffer together. We achieve together. I have met some of my favorite people thanks to Coach Jess (also being one of them).