OUR MEMBERS
Learn what our members say about CFCL and a glimpse into who they are - inside and outside of the gym.
CLICK IMAGE TO READ THEIR STORY
“I do have to say that it has been an awesome month at the gym. It definitely is overwhelming but there is such a warm welcoming attitude, that I have really enjoyed it so far… other than hurting everyday.. but a good hurt. This gym is so much more than a gym. I have never been in another where everyone is so welcoming, nonjudgmental and friendly. Look forward to making it a part of my life.”
“Honestly joining CrossFit has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my mental and physical health. Will continue moving on in hopes of continuing my progress. Appreciate the ongoing support and fun atmosphere.”
Lesley Patkau
Lesley started doing CrossFit as additional training for ultimate disc in 2016 but switched over to CFCL in January of 2023. She had been a awesome addition to the gym!
“The coaching at CFCL is amazing and the 6:45am crew really sealed the deal. I love the community as a whole.”
Outside of the gym, Lesley is a self employed carpenter and occasionally travels with a non-profit organization that does international relief work.
Jill Bailey
Meet Jill! She has been at CFCL since June of 2020!
“This place means so much to me, and everyone in it means even more! It is definitely my happy place and where I feel my best! The people I’ve met and the friends I’ve made are what keep me coming back (shout out to my 5:45am crew!). I’m very grateful to be part of the CFCL family. And damn it, I’m going to get those double unders someday!!!”
Outside of the gym Jill finds joy at work (she manages Saskatoon Surgicentre and is a operating room nurse at RUH), as well as working in her yard, with her daughter or hanging with her doodles.
“I love my job, and work a lot! I have the best kid in the world (I’m biased ), my 14 year old Christmas baby (best Christmas present ever!) I love working in my yard, my neighbors have been known to ask me what’s the secret to my lawn! I have two doodle dogs that mean the world to me, Bailey and Maisey.”
tammy lowes
AKA: Not sure if it counts as a nickname, but… the BEST one ever! Nana
Tammy joined CFCL in September 2022, initially because of the virtual classes. Like many through COVID, she was working from home.
“I have a lot of equipment at home, but was lacking motivation. Searching for virtual CrossFit classes, I was very fortunate to come across Crossfit OneFifty! Val and the morning crew welcomed me with open arms! I loved starting my day with the virtual team.”
Now Tammy has moved back to working in the office. So unfortunately the virtual class time does not work on a regular for her anymore (though she does still pop in from time to time), but she just shifted over to join in-person classes in the afternoon and that is working great for her!
“The coaches and the members of the gym are the best part of the workout… don’t get me wrong, I do love a good WOD – but it is the sense of belonging/community that keeps me coming back and motivated.”
Tammy loves the variety of movements and options that CrossFit has to offer, but if she had to pick just a couple, rowing and deadlift would be at the top of the list.
“Rowing because it is something different from the ‘normal’ cardio that I have always done. There is definitely a technique to rowing, it is such a great workout, as it is strengthening your arms, legs and core… while increasing your cardio! A “one-stop-shop” :) And deadlifts, are one of my favorite weighted exercises, I am sure because that is one movement I am confident with my form lol. Not only that it is very empowering to see how much weight I am able to lift, I just recently got my PR, during one of the virtual classes!”
Tammy loves CrossFit, and will continue to encourage anyone and everyone to try it out!
“The coaches are so supportive, and are always encouraging me. I tend to stay within my comfort zone, but with the support of the coaches I have the confidence to add a bit more weight, try to rope climb or pushing a bit further to get my toes to the bar, (these are just a few examples ). CrossFit is for everyone! Every movement within the classes is scalable to you! I encourage you to try it, you will not be disappointed! The members and coaches will be your biggest cheerleaders!”
Tammy is very passionate about the work that she does and loves going to work every day! When she is not at work or at the gym, her most absolute favorite way to spend my time, is with her granddaughters <3
STEPHANIE HUGHES
AKA: Stef (please note the spelling :)
Stephanie (Stef) is a CrossFit OneFifty OG. She joined the very first day the gym opened (back in Sept 2006) and was in fact at the very first class on the very first day. She has been with CFCL through it all and switched over to being a virtual member since it has been offered.
“I knew Val and Jason from before CFCL started. Their coaching always focused on the person first, ensuring individuals felt safe, welcomed and encouraged. They demonstrated through their actions time and time again that they are humble, caring people and leaders. This matters to me, as a client and as someone who is intentional about how I spend my time. They, along with Sarah Trinh, were helpful and supportive during a loss in our family.”
In addition to health benefits, Stef keeps attending CFCL because it’s fun. She also enjoys the friendships she has built, including in the virtual community.
“Fun is a core aspect of my life, along with my faith, my family and my friends. And the pull of that fun and in this community means the exercise benefits spill over into other areas, helping to strengthen me mentally, whether I’m fundraising for clients, serving on the Friendship Inn Board or spending time with my hubster and our pug (Moxie).”
Moxie also makes regular appearances in the virtual classes. #numberonecoach Another part of that fun is lifting things. Stef’s favourite movements are the deadlift and clean. “There’s just something about the barbell that I’ve loved since the start.”
“I’m grateful for Val, Jason and so many others I’ve met along my fitness journey. CFCL truly lives out community. “
We are grateful for you too Stef <3
Danielle Siemens
AKA: Danni
Danni started at CFCL in December of 2022. She was no stranger to CrossFit or Weightlifting and now enjoys both, jumping into our competitive program after just 6 months with us.
“I took a few years off Crossfit and weightlifting, and was hesitant to come back. Jason and the other coaching staff members have been phenomenal in helping me scale movements and still get a good workout in. 10/10 for jokes, as well! So I keep coming for the welcoming community and the coaching.”
Outside of the gym, Danielle has some really unique and fun hobbies :)
“I really, really love going grocery shopping. I get an iced coffee and a cart, and drift through the aisles making my selections, sometimes with a podcast. Best done mid-afternoon when there are few(er) people there, lol! Otherwise, I enjoy studying for my Realtor license, spending time with my husband Pat, going to our nephews’ sports games, and taking my dog, Fluffbutt, for walks.”
Richard kent & brooke anderson
AKA: Rich, Richie, Big Dick, Superman and his wife, Brooke.
Richard’s journey with CrossFit started in 2013, where Jason was his first coach. Brooke started at CFCL in 2019 and after just a few month dragged Richard to join as well, and they haven’t looked back since.
Richard: In 2013, I walked into the gym and Jason welcomed me with open arms and asked why I wanted to be there. Not knowing the answer, he said "if you want to learn how to lift heavy shit, I'll teach you". He's taught me this and so much more. Jason always finds ways to help me optimize my movement patterns and pursue higher intensity in my workouts.
Brooke: I was looking for a new gym and remembered Richard saying that Jason was always the best coach he had ever had. I immediately appreciated Jason's attention to detail, and ability to cue correct movement patterns. The community at CFCL is amazing. The entire gym feels like a family, literally from newborns to grandparents. It feels very much like fitness for longevity, instead of the stereotypical CrossFit gym when quantity counts more than quality. And I haven't had a CrossFit related injury since I joined in 2019!
Outside of the gym this couple has a secret life - Richard is a woodworker and Brooke his social media editor. She is always encouraging him… :)
Richard: I transform chunks of wood into amazing creations, like tables and bowls, using my magical tools. It's like weightlifting for my creativity muscles, but with sawdust instead of sweat. I can bench press a solid oak plank and deadlift a stack of walnut boards like nobody's business. It's my own version of getting ripped, one project at a time!
Brooke: I am always trying to get him to change the name from “Enriched Woodworks” to “Big Dicks Wood and Treasures” :) I also act as his agent for any modeling requests, although neither of these positions is compensated.
This amazing couple met playing ultimate frisbee together, and this summer will be their 10th year playing together!
SHAWN TOOVEY
AKA: 2V
Shawn is married and the father of two boys. He started CrossFit in 2017, and joined CFCL just before Christmas 2022.
“I need the activity for physical and mental health reasons. Stress from nursing in ICU for over 2 decades has taken its toll on my life in several areas. CrossFit is my time to heal and unload that stress. I like the challenge of a good WOD and chucking the weights around.”
Shawn is also musically and artistically orientated. He plays blues harmonica and guitar, and for the past three years he has been spending most of his downtime making art from repurposed medical plastics from my workplace at St. Paul’s ICU. Check out this story that CBC did on his creations. Also give him a follow on Instagram for a peek of what he’s up to @shawn_2V.
Shawn also loves baseball (“Go Jays!”), enjoys getting to the cabin in the summer and loves his Yorkie named “Wall*E” <3
janet warren
AKA: MOM :P
Janet joined our virtual CrossFit crew in Nov 2022.
“I was looking for a way to have the comradery and connection that comes from regularly going to the gym with the luxury of being at home to help with saving time in getting ready for work and getting on with my day. I was regularly attending a gym, but was feeling rushed, which didn’t always bode well to a positive start to my day. CrossFit OneFifty’s virtual 6:00am class is the best of both worlds!”
Janet especially loves when there is deadlifts and/or bench press in the workout! She feels like these are her strongest movements, and Coach Val will attest that she has great form and even asked if she has ever considered competing in Powerlifting :)
Janet is a teacher, so whenever she gets a chance (especially in the summer months) she enjoys going up to the cabin and basking in the peacefulness of nature. If the weather is nice, her favourite thing is to go for a nice long hike, and then relax in the hot tub! She also loves quieter activities like reading and doing jigsaw puzzles. But dont be fooled, she is also quite the thrill seaker…
“Fun fact… I took my mom skydiving to celebrate my 40th birthday and her 65th birthday!”
Family is very important to Janet, even the fur-kind (her dog Ruby).
“She LOVES to cuddle, and when I’m having a bad day, a snuggle from her always makes the day seem better!”
wendy perry
Wendy started Virtual CFCL in April 2021. She lives in a rural area where options for a fitness centre/gym are limited and/or involve a long drive. In the past she tried to stay active with outdoor bootcamps in nearby communities, online fitness/workouts (no coach), and even getting programs to do on her own. She found that investing in a bit of her own fitness equipment and having the live virtual classes with coaching/feedback has made a huge difference in her motivation and accountability.
“I was very happy when CFCL started their virtual classes/program. The coach (Val) modifies the workout for injuries I am recovering from but still helps me build my mobility in a safe and gradual momentum. She has taught me to celebrate my success towards my goals and not focus on my shortcomings – this is so applicable in all areas of life! I also feel like I am part of a community as we have a chance to chat and learn about each other before we get started each day. I am very grateful. THANK YOU!!!”
Health, wellness, and fitness has always been very important to Wendy – a therapy for her body and mind. But she also find therapy in the outdoors and with pets <3
“I love taking in nature, the beauty and peacefulness during a kayaking tour (on the Bow River is my favourite). As kayaking is a more occasional treat, my more frequent passion is being out in my yard - I try to balance the work part with the relaxation part. I also love dogs and cats, all animals…but I would have to say I favour cats a little more. I like that they are independent, and have their own unique personalities - cat-itudes!!! They are the best snugglers and can really teach you how to chill out!”
Fun fact, Wendy is CFCL’s Bookkeeper and Valarie Adamson’s mom! Can you see the resemblence?!
Alexander Sun
AKA: Sunny boy
Alex joined CFCL in November of 2021. He stays because of the challenging but fun workouts, the coaches, and the members.
“Also Jason yelling “ALEXANDERRRR “ when I walk in late almost every second day :) I am bias and love my morning gym-goers. Everyone is so energetic, has such big smiles, and always lots of laughter - we just feel like a close-knit family. The great thing about coming here is that you can continue to learn and push yourself each day in a safe, welcoming environment. The classes are for all levels and Jason and the coaches are great at modifying any of the exercises where you are challenged but still feel comfortable.”
Prior to joining CFCL, Alex was having consistent tightness and aches in his hip area.
“Once I started coming here, I can happily say I have minimal aches in the hip area with the mentorship from Jason and the coaches. I would highly recommend this gym to anyone who reads this. I am so grateful for CrossFit OneFifty!”
What are some of your favourite hobby/thing to do outside of the gym and why?
“Hanging with my friends and family and drinking tequila - because life is all about balance! Also I like Karaoke, playing board games (especially Settlers of Catan), travelling to explore new cultures and get away from the cold.”
What is your favourite and least favourite CrossFit movement and why?
“Least - double unders… Favourite - Clean & jerks and handstand push -ps because there’s always room for improvement and can keep striving for better.”
PHIL & SARAH DAVIS
AKA: Dr. Phil (mostly doesn’t stick thank goodness…) and Davis (almost everyone calls me by my last name instead of first)
Phil met Jason (Owner of CFCL) while on an emergency medicine rotation in Saskatoon in 2015. When they move from the East Coast it seemed like a good place to start. On Sarah’s first day at the gym, she squatted with Sarah Trinh and discovered they had more in common than just their names - their babies were born on the same day!
“It felt serendipitous. We have no actual family in SK, members of CFCL have become our family. We celebrate holidays, birthdays and the ups and downs of life together. Its unlike anything I've ever been a part of…and has blessed me with sisters who hold me up, a brother to talk baseball with, a grandma to love my kids and a coach who challenges and encourages me even when I fight him every step of the way.” - Sarah
“[I keep coming back because] its among the best 1-2 hours of my day” - Phil
What are some of your favourite things to do on the weekends/outside of the gym?
“Eat, sleep and be merry. ” - Phil
What is your favourite holiday and why?
“My favourite holiday is a Newfoundland Tradition called Tib's Eve. It's on the 23rd of December and the basis of the holiday is to celebrate (ahem, drink) with your friends in preparation for spending two weeks with your family.” - Sarah
GLENDA Beauchamp
AKA: B-champ, Glendaballs
Glenda is a OG to CrossFit OneFifty! She joined when we first opened the doors of StrongFit YXE in Sept 2016 and started coaching classes and foundations sessions in January 2017. Through her time at CFCL, she had attended over 1,000 classes and coached over 1,500 classes/sessions. Wow!
“CFCL is one of my favourite places to be (outside of a volleyball court), so it seemed like a natural transition to coach classes. The joy of watching people progress over time is amazing - even if members don't notice the progress, the coaches do! So many great friendships have been created here, plus the hugs from Mandy are legendary.”
What are your favourite CrossFit movements and why?
“Mostly involving lifting heavy stuff - Deadlifts and Backsquats…and can't forget about tire flips!”
COURTNEY & CHRIS CALLAHAN
AKA: Cally & Courtney
The Callahan’s joined CFCL because of Jason (owner of CFCL) and the Trinh family.
“His passion for fitness and never ending support for his friends, family, and community consistently shines through.” - Courtney
“I stay because of the people and my obsession with fitness.” - Cally
We asked them both a couple of fun questions, these were our favourite responses:
What are your favourite CrossFit movements and why?
“Double under and wallballs - they arent, they are actually my least favourite...just trying to use reverse psychology.” - Cally
What is your favouriate hobby/thing to do outside of the gym and why?
“Making cheesecake! Three years ago I started a side hobby business called Needy Cakes where I make custom cheesecakes. I found it impossible to find good cheesecake in the city and I made it my mission to perfect the technique and deliver quality results every time.” - Courtney
Mandy & Finn Molder
AKA: Finley & Man-etta
People always think Finn is short for something like Finley, but it’s not. He just had this name way before it was made popular by shows like “Glee.”
If you hear people shouting “Man-etta” in the gym, they are talking to Mandy. That’s her real name - although her gym pals always say it wrong (on purpose). It’s pronounced “M-anita”
Mandy & Finn joined Crossfit in Jan 2015 - Val and Jason did their Foundations classes. Mandy was looking for a structured fitness environment and needed something to help manage her anxiety. She had signed up to go alone and asked Finn to come an hour before her first session - and here they are!
“We [stay at CFCL] because of the amazing friends we have made. Jason, Sarah and family, along with countless others have become some of our bestest friends. We cherish the community every-single-day.” - Mandy
The gym also helps Finn to keep up with their teenage boys (Ty-19; Charlie-16), or at least gives him a fighting chance. Mandy uses the gym as a way to fill her days off from shift work, help manage her anxiety and it gives her a place to nurture her competitive nature.
What are your favourite things to do on the weekends/away from the gym?
“I like to curl, cross-country ski and snowshoe in the winter. In the summer I love to spend time in the garden or in a canoe, preferably exploring the wilderness up north.” - Finn
“I am sometimes game to join him, but would rather a cabin over a tent. I enjoy sitting on the deck on warm summer morning’s with coffee and a crossword watching Finn dead-head the flowers. :)” - Mandy
“Whenever someone new walks into the gym the coaches are very quick to go help them and see what they need. Replies to online messages and emails are always very quick. There is never any pressure to buy memberships or if you change your membership just facts and prompt service.”
Building Strength at Home
Rosalie works out at home with our virtual group. She makes her living room into her exercise space and has built up her strength with a few sets of dumbbells, bands and other household items.
“I started exercise at first because I knew I needed to do something to strengthen my muscle and improve my posture. Exercising right from home has helped me feel better and get through trying times. I see myself continuing for a very long time!”
“Old Guy” & “Golden Girl” Going Strong
Meet Rick and Arlene Fedorchuk - importnat members of the OGs (Old Guys) and Golden Girls Clubs :)
Rick started CrossFit at the wise age of 52 and Arlene jumped on the bandwagon after she turn 60. This inspiring couple shows us all that you can get stronger and more fit as you age, and that coupple that fitness together…are just awesome.
“The feelings of safety and respect for everyone is constant. I have never been made to feel bad about not being able to do something physically but I also get that push to try harder and new things. The friendships I have made since starting are a big reason I keep going! I would recommend anyone at any spot of physical condition to come!”
Three Generations of Strong Females
“ I was extremely hesitant because I assumed CrossFit was for fit people…but that was all in my head” - MEGAN
“There is a perfect combination of scaling, challenging, encouraging and reigning in.” - LAUREN
“I get to go to the gym with my mom and my grandma and that makes it more fun!” - OLIVE
“This summer I came to you with the most devastating news and you said how can I help, how can they gym family help you. This first thing was you did was to put a hold on my membership and said come whenever you want with no charge. Next you planned a fundraiser to help me and Anton with a few wish list items. 25000 burpees, a day spent with “family” and funds raised almost $4000. That day meant so much to Anton. He knew I would always have this family once he was gone. I am so grateful every time I come to the gym and get a hug from one of the members, sit and visit, workout beside people I know care about me and with coaches who know my story and know I just need to be there. Customer service has been about treating members like family and knowing when that family member needs a push, or needs a hug. You have done this for me and for so many others. CFCL will always be my gym and my family. Thank you.”