MEMBER FEATURE: Chad Thompson

The hardest part is still walking through the door.

For Chad Thompson, that first step into the gym has never been easy — especially after taking a few years away from CrossFit. When he joined CrossFit CL150, he admits he was “scared shitless and intimidated.” But showing up mattered, and it still does. Every class, every day, that decision to walk in is one he’s proud of.

When Chad first started CrossFit years ago, the goal was simple: burn off some energy. Over time, that motivation evolved. Today, his “why” is about staying healthy, present, and active for his two daughters — keeping up with them now, and being a positive influence for years to come.

Finding consistency (and confidence)

Chad knew he needed a gym with group classes. Training solo just wasn’t going to cut it. Finding CL150 — conveniently close to both work and home — checked all the boxes. What surprised him most wasn’t just the workouts, but the atmosphere: positive, welcoming, and refreshingly non-competitive.

His proudest moment in the gym has nothing to do with a lift, a PR, or a leaderboard. It was simply coming back. Choosing to restart after time away, even when it felt uncomfortable, was a win in itself.

The workouts

Like many members, some movements that once felt brutal have become more manageable with time. The bike, in particular, has gone from a dreaded piece of equipment to something Chad actually enjoys — even using it as a reset between efforts. If he were to design his own workout, it would include the bike, rowing, wall balls, and anything that doesn’t completely destroy his shoulders.

Why community matters

CrossFit has had a meaningful impact on Chad’s life outside the gym, especially when it comes to both mental and physical health. On tougher days, he shows up because he knows it’s what he needs.

Having his kids come with him is a huge motivator, and so is the environment at CL150. When asked who inspires him, Chad doesn’t single anyone out — his answer is simple and telling: every coach and every person in class.

Chad’s advice

For anyone just starting their CrossFit journey, Chad keeps it simple: just show up. You’ll feel better than you did before — every single time.

Looking ahead, Chad isn’t chasing anything flashy. He’s excited to keep showing up, stay healthy, and continue building real connections within the CrossFit CL150 community.

And in case you were wondering — yes, he’s a little sarcastic. But that probably doesn’t surprise anyone. 😄

A bit more about Chad

Outside the gym, Chad is a metal fabricator and welder who spends his time playing and watching hockey, fixing and restoring cars, and figuring out how to repair just about anything (because, as he says, “it’s too expensive to pay someone else”). He’s also the sole parent to two daughters and a dog — which is exactly why staying healthy and active matters as much as it does.