"It’s a community as much as it is a gym." ~Jack Lynch, Athlete of the Month

We're thrilled to spotlight Jack Lynch as our Athlete of the Month for March 2024!

Jack's journey is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of community, determination, and the pursuit of well-being. Joining Salus became a pivotal moment in his life, propelling him from a routine gym-goer to a dynamic athlete, fueled by the challenges and camaraderie found within our community. His story, rich with resilience and a heartfelt dedication to growth, serves as an inspiration to us all.

"Selecting Jack as Athlete of the Month was a no-brainer! His incredible consistency and relentless pursuit of improvement, showcasing an indomitable spirit, regardless of the obstacles. As one of our OG Salus members from 547, Jack's journey reflects the very essence of our Salus community—unyielding dedication and the power of showing up, day after day, to become the best version of yourself." ~Coach Angela

"Jack gives 100% every work out!  He shows up ready to work no matter the WOD and modifies where needed. He never leaves class without thanking me and fist pumping everyone that they did a good job." Coach Scott

"As a coach and longtime friend of Jack’s, the first word that comes to mind when thinking of him is “commitment.” Through Salus location changes, quarantine, job changes, and keeping up with two busy teenagers, Jack has treated his workouts as a commitment he honors during his busy day and to his own health. He is an 8:30 class fixture in his favorite corner of the box, ready to throw around a heavy barbell while remaining smart about scaling if need be. He always remains upbeat, ending each class with a fist bump and a smile for coaches and team WOD partners alike (spoken from experience on both fronts)." ~Coach Erin

1. When and why did you start at Salus?

I’m pretty sure I joined Salus in May of 2017, which was a month before my 47th birthday. I had worked out my whole life, but at that point I was a “one hour on the elliptical" kind of guy at a city gym during lunch. I remember that I felt like I needed to make a change. Do something completely different. One of my best friends was battling stage 4 colon cancer, I had young kids and stress had given me alopecia. Not sure why CrossFit came to mind, but I recall googling it and finding Salus. 

2. How has your performance changed since you started at Salus?

I’m definitely stronger than I have been in a long time and my endurance is much better.

3. Are there exercises you can do now that you couldn’t do before?

All the weightlifting.

I had never done a clean, snatch, push press, deadlift, etc. before. My experience with weightlifting was when I was much younger and pretty much consisted of bench pressing and curls.  LOL. 

4. How has your body physically changed since you started?

Definitely more muscle and, believe it or not, more flexible.

5. How has Salus changed you in other ways?

Exercise has always been my outlet for dealing with stress.

I find strength training and the WODs are a perfect combination to help keep me in a good mindset and allow me to focus on things that are important to me like my family, work and friendships.

Plus, being around like minded people has made me more aware of my nutrition, health and the importance of a good night’s sleep.

6. How do you describe Salus to your friends?

It’s a community as much as it is a gym.

The workouts are challenging that help push you beyond what you think you're capable of. However, you have the support and encouragement from so many great people around you who only want to see you succeed.

7. What keeps you motivated to continue? What's your "why"?

Controlling my destiny as best I can. I know that living an active healthy lifestyle surrounded by supportive people who I genuinely enjoy being around is good for my mind, body and soul. 

8. Favorite lift or WOD?

Clean & Jerk is probably my favorite because there is so much technique involved, but do look forward to squats, deadlifts and push presses.

As for WODs, I like any WOD that has a time cap or is an AMRAP. LOL. I like knowing when the workout is going to end. 

9. What advice would you give to a newbie just joining Salus?

Show up with an open mind.

Be as consistent as you can with the willingness to learn and try new things. 

10. What is your next goal to accomplish?

Lately I’ve been much more focused on my diet than I have been in a while. I would like to get down to where I was in my 20’s. I started in earnest in early December and dropped 20+ lbs so far. I have another 20 to go.

11. If you could design your own WOD, what would it look like?

It would be a time cap that included kettlebell swings, DB snatches, bike, c&j’s, wall balls and strict sit ups with a 90’s grunge with some 80’s metal soundtrack. LOL So lots of Alice in Chains, PJ, Rage, Soundgarden, Metallica, etc. 

12. Favorite thing to do for fun?

Being outdoors.

Love hiking, kayaking, camping, etc.

13. Favorite healthy dish....and favorite "splurge" meal?

Healthy - chicken stir fry

Splurge - chicken parm

14. If you could be a superhero/superstar who would you be and why?

Good question… Bruce Lee would be interesting. He seemed to be very enlightened as well as being physically elite. 

15. Favorite motivational quote?

I have a few, but here are a few I use all the time: “a thousand mile journey begins with the first step”, “everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth” and “just keep swimming”.

16. Interesting fact not many people know about you.

I'm a first generation American.

My parents are both off the boat from Ireland so most of my family live in Europe (Ireland, England, Switzerland, Germany) and Australia.