Spotlight Athlete: Jessica Shelton

Name: Jessica Shelton

Age: 33

Occupation: Audio Visual Project Manager

Hometown: Born in Washington, but raised here in Buford

Which class time do you usually attend?: 6 AM

Favorite WOD: Anything with Power Cleans

Favorite CF Movement: Deadlift

Least Favorite CF Movement: Snatch

3RM Back Squat: 1751RM

Deadlift: I did 275 banded last year, so probably heavier than that

Favorite Food: Hot wings

Favorite Movie: Any Avengers movie

Favorite Athlete: Kristi Eramo

Dream Job: Contractor with the Army

Dream Vacation Destination: Greece

If you could have any superpower, it would be… Probably the Hulk’s powers. He’s my favorite Avenger.

Favorite Motivational Quote: “You get hurt, hurt ’em back. You get killed … walk it off.” -Captain America and every Army Sergeant I’ve ever encountered.

How long have you been doing CrossFit?: Since 2017

How did you first discover CrossFit and what made you decide to start?: I failed out of an Army Training school and my Sergeant used it as punishment. I’ve loved it ever since.

Tell us about your fitness/sports background: I’ve been in the Army for 11 years. Fitness was never a choice.

What sorts of positive changes (mental, physical, emotional) have you noticed in your life since getting involved at No Excuses?: I used to be extremely anxious about running. I’ve changed how I think mentally going into WODs with running so that I don’t take it personally if I don’t finish.

Who or what keeps you coming back and motivated?: Coach Brandon is the accountability that I used to have in the Army. His side eye says it all.

In what other ways do you use your fitness?: I spend a lot of time outside with my daughter on the weekends. I didn’t have that type of energy before.

Please share with us a favorite CrossFit or No Excuses moment.: Any moment with Chris, Ben, and Charles in the 6 AM class. Those 3 definitely keep me laughing. It’s hard not to laugh when they are there.

Name one goal you would like to achieve in the next year: Lately, I’ve been prone to a lot of injuries.

Tell us about your hobbies and interests outside of the gym:*Anything with my daughter. I love being a mom.

What advice do you have for someone just starting CrossFit or who is on the fence about starting?: Be patient with your progression and enjoy the ride. CrossFit has gotten me through some tough times in my life because of the people.

What do you love most about No Excuses?: There’s no judgment. Everyone is there to help.