MEMBER FEATURE: Tim Gabb & Chelsea Sveinbjornson
If you’ve been around CrossFit CL for a while, you may recognize these familiar faces—or maybe you’ve heard the sound of little feet chasing around after a workout! Meet Tim and Chelsea, longtime members, parents to Eidur (5) and Boston (3), and a true CrossFit couple who embody perseverance, positivity, and community spirit.
Chelsea and Tim first met through CrossFit and officially joined CFCL (then StrongFit YXE) back in 2016. After taking some time away to start their family, they’re back at it—and stronger than ever.
Background & Journey
Chelsea is a Registered Nurse on the General Surgery/Trauma Unit at RUH and recently began offering nutrition coaching, inspired by her personal journey of losing over 50 pounds through CrossFit and lifestyle changes (check out more of that journey here). She grew up playing a variety of sports, including volleyball, basketball, and softball, and today her passion for fitness and health is stronger than ever.
Tim works underground at Nutrien Allan Mine and has a background in soccer. He started CrossFit back in 2008 in Bath, England before moving to Canada—and it’s been a part of his life ever since.
Both Tim and Chelsea enjoy golf, CrossFit, and chasing after their two busy boys.
CrossFit and Community
Chelsea initially fell in love with CrossFit for its structure and community after feeling lost in conventional gyms. She shares that what once started as a way to "look a certain way" has evolved into something far deeper: a way to relieve stress, clear her mind, and stay healthy and strong for her family.
Tim’s approach is classic: he loves the simple, gritty workouts, favoring deadlifts and box jumps (“fun” fact: Tim ruptured his Achilles back in 2017 linking 30" box jumps the day after proposing to Chelsea—he still loves box jumps but now wisely steps down!).
When asked about challenges, they say CrossFit is their stress relief, not the source of it.
Over the years, they’ve achieved plenty of personal milestones—Chelsea linking multiple toes-to-bar after years of trying stands out as a proud highlight! Whether tackling intense sprints or grinding through long endurance workouts, they both find joy and accomplishment in the journey.
Family and Future
Being a part of CFCL has meant more than just fitness—it’s a second home. Chelsea shares that the gym has been a safe space through postpartum, tough days, and everything in between:
"Apart from home, CrossFit CL is my safe space. The community here—people watching over your kids so you can work out, friends to laugh and cry with—is invaluable. We’re so grateful to be part of it."
Tim and Chelsea continue to prioritize an active lifestyle not just for themselves, but for Eidur and Boston—to set an example of health, resilience, and joy in movement.
Looking Ahead
Chelsea is currently focused on having fun, staying strong, and inspiring others through her nutrition coaching. Tim is taking on a new challenge: running his first half marathon at the upcoming Sask Marathon!
Their advice to newcomers?
"Just stick with it and don’t compare yourself to others. Keep showing up, and track your progress—you’ll be amazed at how far you come."
CrossFit has completely transformed how they view fitness and health, and they’re excited to keep moving forward with the amazing people at CFCL by their side.
Final Fun Facts:
Tim is colorblind!
Chelsea loves fast-paced workouts with wall balls, burpees, pull-ups, and heavy barbells.
Their dream WODs? Box jumps and deadlifts for Tim, and a little bit of everything (rowing, wall balls, heavy lifting, pull-ups) for Chelsea!
You two have slid right back in like you never left. Thanks for continuing to show up and for being such a steady, valued part of our community.