Hillary Sanchez

Hillary Sanchez: Squats, Self-Love, and Showing Up at CFBC

February 2026 Athlete of the Month – CrossFit Broken Chains

By CFBC Staff Writer

Before she ever committed to a membership, Hillary Sanchez knew CrossFit Broken Chains was different.

It was a simple walk-in class with Coach Phil that first left an impression. Months later, when Hillary found herself relocating to the area, she didn’t hesitate. “I didn’t even have to look,” she says. “I remembered how much I enjoyed that class.”

Now, over a year later, the 29-year-old has become a staple in CFBC’s early-morning 5:30 a.m. crew, inspiring others through her energy, discipline, and relentless positivity.

More Than Fitness — A Place of Belonging

For Hillary, CFBC isn’t just about PRs or programming. It’s about community.

“The encouragement and judge-free environment is one of a kind. Being a new athlete and being heavier than most, I’ve never felt unwelcomed — it’s been the opposite. I’ve felt embraced and encouraged.”

The gym quickly became a safe space where she could grow, challenge herself, and connect with others who saw her potential — sometimes even before she saw it in herself.

Her Proudest Moments

This Athlete of the Month recognition? A proud moment, to be sure. But Hillary says one of her favorite milestones was joining Barbell Club  — a space where she truly began discovering what she’s capable of.

Her favorite movement? Squats, no question.

The toughest? Push-ups and pull-ups.  But she’s not shying away from them — she’s putting in the work every day, showing up with tenacity and grit.

A Transformation That Starts on the Inside

For Hillary, the real transformation has been about self-love and discipline.

“CrossFit taught me what the outside world couldn’t — to love my body. I began to embrace food as fuel. I train hard, and I want to nourish the body that does this amazing work.”

This shift in perspective, from criticism to care, has been one of the most empowering parts of her journey. “It’s taught me to be disciplined inside and out.”

Advice for New Athletes

Hillary’s message to anyone stepping into CFBC for the first time?

“Do it all. Don’t limit yourself. And know that scaling isn’t weakness — it’s strength. It’s awareness. It’s understanding where you are and where you’re going.”

Her wisdom is rooted in experience: showing up, day after day, no matter how hard the workout or how early the alarm.

What the CFBC Bond Means to Her

To Hillary, the CFBC Bond is simple and powerful:

“Faith and commitment.”

It’s a theme that runs through every part of her story — from the first class that drew her in to the friendships and growth that keep her coming back.

Shoutouts from the Heart

There’s no shortage of gratitude in Hillary’s voice when she reflects on the people who’ve made her journey special.

“Coach Phil is the reason I joined. His embrace and Christ-like character clicked instantly.”

She also praises:

• Coach Natalie  – “Always pushes me to my limit and sees past what I can.”
• Coach Betty – “Her fun, dynamic, and welcoming personality.”
• Coach Nate  – “Definitely a teacher.”
• And her 5:30 a.m. crew — “John, and just everyone! Even the ones I don’t see every day — I know they’re there cheering me on.”

Final Words

Hillary Sanchez is proof that strength isn’t about being the fastest or the lightest in the room. It’s about showing up, loving your body, and building a life grounded in faith and perseverance.

Her journey continues — one squat, one sunrise class, and one act of self-belief at a time.