Christal Rheams

Christal began her CrossFit journey in 2012 after walking into an old glass factory gym in Lorton, Virginia already in her mid-40s and determined to take her fitness to the next level. While Army fitness had built a strong foundation, she knew it didn’t check every box for becoming a stronger, more well-rounded soldier. What started as a pursuit of better fitness quickly became a lifelong commitment to growth, community, and performance. (And yes, she was already a Masters athlete then… these days she likes to say she’s just leveling up in the “vintage division.”)

With over a decade of experience, Christal has trained under some of the nation’s top CrossFit athletes and coaches, later expanding her skillset through several years in powerlifting under grid athlete Jim Rymiszewski. That foundation gives her a unique and balanced coaching perspective rooted in both strength and functional fitness.

A 30-year U.S. Army veteran, certified Master Resilience Trainer Combative Level 1 and Level II Certified Christal brings a deep understanding of leadership, discipline, and motivation to every class she leads. She is especially passionate about helping athletes of all levels realize their potential, something that was deeply reinforced after judging an adaptive athlete competition and witnessing firsthand the life-changing impact of CrossFit.

Outside the gym, Christal is an accomplished professional vocalist who has performed around the world, including as a top 5 finalist on America’s Got Talent with Voices of Service. Whatever she does, her mission is the same: to inspire, connect, and help others discover their strength. A proud mother of two grown children one currently serving as a logistics officer in the U.S. Army and a dedicated wife, she continues to share her voice globally, performing for audiences across the world.

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