One of the best parts of running Cobra Command is getting to watch people grow.

Not just physically… but in confidence, friendships, and the way they show up for themselves.

Today I want to tell you about one of our members, Shawn Simpson.

Shawn has been part of Cobra Command for just over a year now. Though technically, he’s been part of the Cobra family even longer. He joined us shortly after COVID, but like many people, life and injuries got in the way and he ended up taking a break.

Just over a year ago, Shawn decided to come back.

And what has happened since then has been nothing short of incredible.

When Shawn first returned, he was a little hesitant about some of the more complex lifts… things like the clean and jerk, the snatch, and overhead squats. Those movements can feel intimidating when you’re getting back into training.

But instead of avoiding them, Shawn did something really smart: He leaned into coaching.

Working closely with Coach Jarrad, he started refining his technique and learning how to move better and more confidently. And once he started building that trust in the process, something cool happened.

Shawn started to flourish.

He found his people in our 6:30 PM class, one of the most fun, supportive crews in the gym. He built great friendships with members like Kurt (who many of you know since he’s a 10 year member!). And he connected with newer members like Kayla and Jeremy, who all hold each other accountable to show up.

Last July, Shawn and C3 member Conrad decided to challenge each other to complete our 100 Workout Challenge, which runs from July through December.

When Shawn first came back, he was still easing into things. He was rebuilding confidence, working around some injuries, and taking his time getting comfortable again.

But once he committed to that challenge, something shifted.

He showed up consistently.
He leaned into coaching.
And he kept stacking workouts week after week.

By October, Shawn had already hit 100 workouts… crushing the challenge months before the year even ended.

And this year? He’s already well on his way toward completing our 226 Workout Challenge for 2026.

But here’s what impresses me most about Shawn.

Shawn has some pretty significant hip injuries that require him to modify certain workouts. Instead of letting that stop him, he does something that great athletes do: He asks questions.

Every class, Shawn checks in with the coaches to figure out the best way to approach the workout. He listens to feedback, makes smart adjustments, and stays consistent.

And because of that, the progress has been incredible.

Just this week he matched his PR for hang clean and jerk.

Last week in the CrossFit Open, he went from having no pull-ups… to completing 10 pull-ups in a workout, working alongside Coach Jarrad with live coaching to help him get there.

That’s the power of good coaching and consistent effort.

Shawn is just a normal guy living a normal life. He has goals, challenges, injuries, and a busy schedule… just like most people.

But what makes Shawn different is his commitment.

He shows up for himself.

He prioritizes not just his physical health, but his mental health and his social health too. And he’s built a community around him that supports that journey.

Shawn, we absolutely love having you here at Cobra. It’s been amazing watching you grow, and I’m grateful I get to share your story. If you are a member of Cobra Command, make sure to give Shawn a little high five next time you see him.

And if you’re reading this thinking, “I’d love to get back into fitness, but I’m a little nervous…” You’re exactly the kind of person we built Cobra Command for.

You don’t have to figure it out alone. Our coaches will meet you where you are and guide you every step of the way.

If you’ve been thinking about starting, the best first step is a Free No Sweat Intro. It’s just a relaxed conversation where we learn about your goals and help you map out a plan that works for you.

We’d love to meet you.

– Coach Jill