At CrossFit CL, we are more than just a gym—we are a community. And within our community, we are lucky to have some incredible people with inspiring stories. This month, we are excited to introduce you to Jody Culbert, a dedicated athlete, mom, and police officer whose journey with us is a testament to resilience, community, and the power of movement.

A Little Bit About Jody

Jody is a Sergeant with the Saskatoon Police Service, serving her 20th year on the force. When she’s not at work, she’s a full-time, proud single mom to two amazing kids—Jade (14) and Jax (12). Life outside of work is a whirlwind of activities, especially with Jax’s love for hockey (and more hockey!) and Jade’s dedication to softball and, most recently, weightlifting at the gym.

When she finds time for herself, Jody loves soaking up the sunshine, whether by the pool or paddleboarding on the river. She also has a passion for yard work and gardening, taking pride in harvesting and pickling everything she can from her garden. Her energy, warmth, and commitment to both her family and personal growth make her an incredible part of our CrossFit CL family.

How It All Started

Jody first stepped into our gym while training for the YXE Fitness Festival—a competition between police, fire, and medical professionals. Her team, representing the Saskatoon Police, trained with Jason at CFCL, and not only did they dominate the competition, but Jody also found a gym that felt like home.

“I fell in love with the workouts, the atmosphere, and most importantly, the people,” she shares. And so, she stayed.

Her CrossFit Journey

From day one, Jody’s goal was simple: stay injury-free. Years of demanding work and an active lifestyle had taken their toll, and she wanted a space where she could train without pain. She arrived with a shoulder injury, but with the help of the coaching team, she not only continued training but even hit some personal records along the way—including a 302-pound deadlift!

While the physical progress has been rewarding, it’s the emotional and mental strength she’s gained that has meant the most. One powerful moment stands out:

“One day in June, I came to the gym after receiving a really upsetting phone call. I grabbed my stuff and decided to just go for a run instead of working out, not wanting anyone to see me cry. Jason saw me and, without a word, ran the entire 5K with me in silence. He pushed me just enough, and for the first time in my life, I ran a sub-30-minute 5K. That ‘win’ changed my whole day—it shifted my mindset and let me go home as the best version of myself for my kids.”

That moment, and so many others, solidified why CFCL is more than just a gym to Jody.

The Challenges & Triumphs

Jody is no stranger to hard work, and while she thrives on movements like back squats, deadlifts, toes-to-bar, and burpees, there’s still one nemesis that gets her every time: the assault bike.

Her approach? “Show up and work, work, work.”

That same grit and determination earned her the ‘Hardest Worker’ award at CFCL’s Christmas celebration—a recognition that only fuels her drive even more.

Beyond the Workouts

CrossFit CL has given Jody more than just fitness. It’s been a space of healing, strength, and support through difficult times.

“When I joined, I was dealing with a lot of negativity in my life. CFCL didn’t just care about my physical health—they cared about my mental health, too. Jason reminded me, ‘It’s okay to not be okay.’ That kind of support, combined with the friendships I’ve built here, has changed my life. I’m smiling more, making healthy choices, and showing up for my kids in the best way possible. Now, they even come to the gym with me when they can.”

The Community That Inspires

The people at CFCL have made a lasting impact on Jody, and she’s quick to acknowledge those who inspire her:

Shirley, who’s in her 70s and still crushing workouts—“I want to be like her when I grow up.”
Heather Priebe, a powerhouse athlete—“I hope my daughter grows up to be like her.”
Her workout buddies, Kristin and Amy—“They push me, celebrate my PRs, and make every workout fun.”
And of course, Jason—“Coach, counselor, problem solver. He has created a safe place for people to grow, heal, and thrive.”

Advice for Newcomers

For those just starting their CrossFit journey, Jody offers this piece of wisdom:

“‘You can be uncomfortable for a very long time’—just breathe. (Jason may have told me that a few times.)”

She also swears by one simple truth: “I have never finished a workout and wished I didn’t go. Just get yourself to the gym. The coaches and members will get you through the hard stuff.”

Looking Ahead

Jody has big goals for the future—she’s aiming to get a muscle-up by the end of 2025 and plans to take on the Open this year. But above all, she’s focused on staying injury-free and continuing to build on the strength, resilience, and community she’s found at CFCL.

Her story is a powerful reminder that fitness is about more than just the numbers on the barbell—it’s about the support, the friendships, and the lessons we take with us outside the gym walls.

Jody, we are so grateful to have you as part of the CrossFit CL family. Thank you for showing up, working hard, and inspiring us all along the way!

MEMBER FEATURE: Jody Culbert