How Jackie Kanc Found Her Groove at Salus

March Athlete of the Month: Meet jackie

From “What am I doing here?” to Athlete of the Month

Jackie Kanc’s journey is all about showing up, finding strength, and embracing the process.

When Jackie first stepped into Salus nearly two years ago, she wasn’t so sure about this whole CrossFit thing. Her first class was big, the workout was complex, and she remembers thinking, "My friends have lost their minds." But like any challenge she’s taken on, Jackie stuck with it—and now, she’s not just stronger physically but also mentally, gaining confidence and pushing past limits she once thought were impossible.

As our March Athlete of the Month, Jackie represents what we love most about our community: resilience, growth, and a great sense of humor. She’s put in the work, tackled weaknesses, and learned to celebrate small wins along the way. From mastering movements she never thought she’d do to using CrossFit as a tool to stay active and independent as she gets older, Jackie’s journey is one of determination, balance, and some seriously strong squats (just don’t talk to her about overhead squats).

Her transformation isn’t just about lifting heavier weights or hitting new PRs—it’s about the mindset shift. Learning that progress takes time, skills require patience, and perfection isn’t necessary to succeed. Plus, if you’ve ever been lucky enough to taste one of her famous baked goods, you know she’s just as skilled in the kitchen as she is in the gym.

"Jackie is so much fun to work with — she’s always willing to push herself, and learn new things, and is interested in the why and how we do things. (Either that or she just is the kindest person who lets me explain the whys and hows!). And she is an incredible incredible baker! Bringing in the best cookies and cupcakes to help us celebrate every event, and sometimes just for fun. And bite sized, for those who are keeping to their macros. She is a delight to have in class, and has accomplished so much since she started." ~Coach Lisa

"Jackie is a great listener and always working to do better, either her form or working on a new movement. never complaints even when I'm tough on her sometimes 😂 she understands how important is to build overall strength and move well. i love that she counts her reps on Portuguese!!! (her husband is from Portugal)."~ Coach Camilla

"Somehow, Jackie with such a tender and kind soul has found her fire - as it emanates through her efforts in CrossFit - never giving up on any workout. And somehow, she tones down the flame to never burn any of those delicious cupcakes. In other words, it’s a joy and enjoyable to coach and watch her progress in her fitness goals (and to eat her cupcakes)." ~Coach Marc

Let’s dive into Jackie’s journey, motivation, and why she loves being part of the Salus community.

When and why did you start at Salus?

I joined Salus almost two years ago after my previous gym changed their format and pricing. A few friends had already joined Salus and raved about it, so I dropped in for a class. It was a big class, a complex lift, and a WOD with way too many moving parts (for me at the time). I remember thinking, "My friends have lost their minds." But thankfully, I kept showing up, and now I love it.

How has your performance changed since starting?

I feel so much stronger. I’ve learned new movements, corrected imbalances, and worked on weaknesses—all thanks to the excellent coaching staff.

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

So many! I had done some lifts before but only with dumbbells, not barbells. Now, I’ve managed double unders, higher box jumps, wall walks, and I’m working on handstand push-ups.

How has your body changed?

I’ve noticed a difference in muscle tone—and when others started noticing too, I realized it wasn’t just in my head. But the biggest change? Less pain. My sciatica and shoulder pain have improved drastically just by keeping a consistent training schedule.

How has Salus impacted you beyond fitness?

I’ve learned to challenge myself in new ways and manage expectations. At first, I would get frustrated seeing others pick things up faster than I could. But over time, I started listening to the coaches and community and realized that progress takes time. Now, I focus on skills over numbers, small wins over perfection. And honestly? That shift has carried over into all aspects of my life.

(Also, my bloodwork has been great—but I promise it’s not because of my eating habits!)

How do you describe Salus to your friends?

A fun challenge. I actually convinced a coworker to join a Reindeer Games class, and she loved it! She even joined a CrossFit gym near her and wants to drop into Salus when she’s in town.

What keeps you motivated?

Staying active so I can do what I love—playing with my dog, gardening, traveling. I don’t like relying on people to do things for me, so staying strong and independent is important.

Favorite lift or WOD?

Front and back squats. I’ve really worked on my depth and stability, and it’s rewarding to see progress.

(OH squats, though? No thanks. They’re the ugly cousin of the squat family, and I refuse to acknowledge them.)

Advice for a newbie?

Just show up and listen. The coaches and community are incredibly supportive. No one cheers harder for your progress than the people sweating next to you.

What’s your next goal?

Stringing a solid set of double unders

Hitting both hands to the 10” line on wall walks consistently

A strict pull-up

Maybe a 24” box jump (big maybe)

Remembering all the lift names and standards without needing reminders every time 🤦‍♀️

If you could design your own WOD, what would it include?

Rowing, jump rope, box jumps, and yes—even burpees. Keep it fast-paced and simple. (Oh, and leave the Assault Bike out of it. Hard pass.)

What do you love to do for fun?

Most people know me as "The Cupcake Lady" at the gym, so obviously, I love baking and creating new recipes. I also have a huge vegetable garden, 10+ varieties of peonies, and a native flower garden.

Recently, we bought a camper van, and I’m hoping to start ticking off National Parks and bucket list destinations.

Favorite healthy meal? Favorite splurge?

✅ Healthy: Grilled salmon over a salad or roasted veggies

🍝 Splurge: Pasta loaded with cheese—fettuccine Alfredo is my ultimate comfort food.

If you could be a superhero or animal, who would you be?

I’d be my dog—because no one has a better life than the Kanc-Teixeira pets.

Favorite inspirational quote?

"Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can." – Arthur Ashe

One interesting fact not many people know about you?

I’m doing a 52-week baking challenge—a different recipe each week, based on a theme or prompt. My goal is to get creative and try new things. Last week’s challenge was "floral," so I made Persian love cake-inspired cookies with rose water, cardamom, almond flour, rose petals, and crushed pistachios.

(Shoutout to my coworkers and the 5:30/6:30 classes for being my R&D team!)

Jackie, We Appreciate You!

Jackie’s journey is proof that strength isn’t just about lifting heavier—it’s about showing up, embracing the process, and finding joy in the challenge. Whether she’s pushing herself in the gym, perfecting her baking skills, or planning her next big trip, she approaches it with determination, humor, and a love for learning.

We’re proud to have her as part of the Salus family. Next time you're at the box, be sure to give Jackie a shoutout! 🎉 #AthleteOfTheMonth #SalusStronger