Marie Jean Solong

Strength with Purpose: Marie Jean Solong's Journey at CFBC

January 2026 Athlete of the Month – CrossFit Broken Chains

By CFBC Staff Writer

At 33 years old, Marie Jean Solong   is proof that strength is more than just a number on a barbell — it’s showing up, embracing challenge, and letting your faith guide you through the process. A member of CrossFit Broken Chains since December 2023, Marie Jean brings consistency, positivity, and quiet leadership to every class she attends.

While she was no stranger to CrossFit before arriving, it was the unique combination of community, accountability, and spiritual focus at CFBC that made this gym feel like home.

• “When I moved to the area two years ago, I started training at CFBC. I love how they put God at the center of our fitness journey and the way they welcome everyone.”

Building Community Beyond the Gym

Marie Jean’s proudest moments at CFBC haven’t come during any single workout — they’ve happened outside the gym walls, in the real-life connections she’s built with her fellow athletes.

• “It’s when we get together for beach trips, farewell parties, milestones, and the Christmas party. Those are the moments that matter to me — because they show how close and connected this community really is.”

Her favorite movements include deadlifts, jump rope, squats, and core exercises — workouts that push both her strength and stamina. But she’s still working on conquering some of the more technical challenges.

• “Rope climbs and pull-ups without modifying — those are still tough for me. But I’m getting there.”

CrossFit as a Catalyst for Confidence

Since joining CFBC, Marie Jean says the biggest change has been in her confidence — and in the mindset she brings to everything she does.

• “CrossFit has changed my life by making me stronger physically and giving me the confidence to achieve anything I set my mind on.”

It’s a transformation that’s as spiritual as it is physical.

• “The CFBC Bond means resilience, tenacity, unity, love, and compassion to me.”

Advice for New Athletes

To those just getting started, Marie Jean offers the kind of grounded wisdom that comes from showing up, day after day.

• “Start small and don’t give up after a couple of tries. Look at it as a journey — and one day, you’ll reach your goals.”

Her story is a reminder that you don’t have to be perfect to begin — you just have to begin.

Gratitude and Shoutouts

Marie Jean didn’t want to end her spotlight without celebrating the team that has supported her every step of the way.

• “Shoutout to all the coaches — I enjoy training with all of them. They each have their unique personalities. Coach Phil is fun and loves singing. Coach Natalie definitely pushes me to be better. Coach Betty is a big motivator. The afternoon coaches are cool too, but I don’t see them often. Coach Nate is definitely a teacher. I love them all and I’m so glad to be part of this amazing community.”

Final Words

Marie Jean’s journey at CFBC is one of faith, perseverance, and quiet strength — the kind that inspires others not just to lift heavier, but to live with greater purpose.

She walks the talk. She shows up with joy. And she reminds us all that fitness is not just about what you can do — it’s about who you become along the way.