Josh Moncrief

Finding Strength Together: How Josh Moncrief Found His Place at CrossFit Broken Chains

May 2026 Athlete of the Month – CrossFit Broken Chains

By Coach Nate Hemphill, CCFT-L3, Owner/Head Coach, CFBC

When Josh Moncrief  first walked into CrossFit Broken Chains three months ago, he wasn’t chasing perfection. He was looking for structure, challenge, and a healthier path forward after years of struggling to balance fitness, work, family life, and the physical changes that came after military service.

What he found was something much bigger.

At 38 years old, Josh has quickly become one of the most encouraging and respected newer athletes at CFBC — someone whose humility, work ethic, and positive attitude have made a lasting impact on the gym community in a very short amount of time.

And fittingly, his journey to CFBC began by watching someone else’s transformation unfold right in front of him: his wife, Zaida.

• “My wife had been doing CrossFit for a few years and had been at CFBC for about a year,” Josh explains. “I attended some social events with her — bowling nights, the New Year’s party — and slowly came to the decision that I wanted a more structured environment with a good atmosphere.”

That atmosphere ultimately became one of the biggest reasons he stayed.

More Than a Gym

For Josh, CrossFit has become more than workouts and barbells. It’s become a place of growth, friendship, accountability, and connection.

• “The challenge of the workouts, the encouragement from the coaches, and the camaraderie with the other members keep me coming back.”

That sense of belonging is something many athletes immediately notice about Josh and Zaida. They are the kind of people who naturally encourage others, celebrate wins, and make everyone around them feel welcome.

Learning to Trust the Process

One of Josh’s proudest moments so far has come through Barbell Club, where movements that once felt impossible are now becoming part of his skill set.

• “At the beginning, things like snatches and clean and jerks really felt out of reach for me,” he says. “But with practice, coaching input, and studying lifting videos, I can finally see real improvement in my form.”

His favorite workouts are the heavy, full-body training days — especially those that combine strength work like deadlifts, squats, and snatches with cardio and functional movements.

But like many athletes, Josh still has challenges he’s actively working through.

• “Because of limited mobility from years of sedentary work, bad knees, and being overweight, anything involving squatting or getting low is tough. But I’ve noticed marked improvements in my mobility and ability to squat.”

And that progress is exactly what CrossFit is about.

A New Kind of Confidence

Josh says CrossFit has changed more than his fitness — it’s changed his outlook.

• “Honestly? It’s a lot of fun,” he says. “I love the environment and the challenge. No two workouts are ever exactly the same.”

Outside the gym, the impact has become noticeable too.

• “Coworkers have told me I seem more upbeat and that I look healthier. And personally, it’s been really meaningful connecting with my wife and daughter in a new way through fitness.”

Advice for New Athletes

Josh’s advice to anyone intimidated about trying CrossFit is thoughtful and honest:

• “There’s always a reason to say, ‘I can’t do that.’ But I’d challenge people to put their pride and fears aside. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes — because if you never make mistakes, you’ll never learn how to improve.”

It’s advice that reflects the mindset he’s embraced himself over the past few months: show up, stay humble, and keep growing.

Living the CFBC Bond

When asked what the CFBC Bond means to him, Josh doesn’t hesitate.

• “It’s a group of like-minded people building a better community, uplifting one another, and doing our best every day toward healthier lives.”

That spirit of encouragement and connection is exactly why Josh and Zaida have become such valued members of the CFBC family.

Shoutouts

Josh gave heartfelt thanks to the people who have helped shape his journey so far.

• “First, my wife Zaida — for getting me interested in CrossFit just by watching her journey.”

He also thanked Coaches Nate, Natalie, Phil, and Dennis for creating an environment that is educational, motivating, and fun.

But perhaps most importantly, Josh praised the community itself.

• “Every time we meet a new member or connect with athletes from different classes, it feels like making new friends and reconnecting with extended family. It’s one of the most positive communities we’ve ever been part of.”

Final Words

In only three months, Josh Moncrief has already become an example of what happens when someone puts aside fear, embraces discomfort, and commits to growth.

His story is still just beginning — but one thing is already clear:

Josh didn’t just join a gym.

He found a family.