Julia Wieskopf

I found CrossFit in 2019 after six years of playing volleyball and wanting to try something new. After stumbling upon a CrossFit gym, I completed my first WOD and absolutely fell in love. I was captivated by CrossFit’s functionality and felt empowered by the capabilities of my body. After being introduced to the concept of mindset in CrossFit, I developed a strong interest in how the mind works which led me to decide to pursue a degree in psychology at the University of Georgia. During the summer of 2022, I interned for CrossFit New England, home of the CompTrain headquarters in Natick, Massachusetts. During my time there, I eagerly learned from world-class coaches and CrossFit Games athletes, soaking up every lesson I could and gained clarity in my passion for coaching. I strongly align with CrossFit’s pillar of “Regularly learn and play new sports,” as stated in World-Class Fitness in 100 Words. CrossFit has given me the confidence and freedom to seek out new adventures. On the weekends, you can catch me in a triathlon, Olympic weightlifting meet, bike race, obstacle course race, or even an arm wrestling tournament.

When I was asked to join the CFL coaching team, my inner critic put a hard stop to the question. My fear of failure had already written my future to be safe and sheltered…and coaching CrossFit was not in the cards. I thought I was too young, too introverted, not ready. After contemplation, I decided to give it a shot and attend a CrossFit L-1 seminar. Over the course of the weekend, I had fallen in love with CrossFit all over again–but this time, in a different way. I walked out of my L-1 with clarity. This was something I had to do. Throughout my coach onboarding program, I struggled with imposter syndrome and self-doubt. After dedicating countless hours to continuing my development as a coach and embracing the discomfort of being a novice, I discovered my passion for coaching and the fulfillment that came along with it. This journey allowed me to rediscover myself and reconsider the boundaries I placed on my potential. I learned that the most growth occurs outside your comfort zone.

As I coach, I strive to help members build the tools to thrive outside of the gym, both physically and mentally. I am passionate about sharing all that CrossFit has given me. My biggest motivation is my 16-year-old self, who used to sit in the car, overwhelmed with nerves before walking into the gym. I looked up to my first CrossFit coaches as idols. Every coach’s message to me, big or small, would stick with me the whole day. I wondered if they knew how big of an impact one small interaction had on the course of my day. Years later, my biggest goal as a coach is to make each member feel valued, even if it is just for 60 minutes of their day. I understand how daunting it can feel to be the new face in the gym and strive to help make every member feel at home. I am impassioned to serve individuals with a growth mindset and a hunger to achieve their goals.