Early Life and Background of Whitney Gelin
Whitney Gelin, originally from Florida, embarked on her athletic journey at the University of North Carolina, where she played varsity softball for the Tar Heels. Her academic pursuits led her to earn a degree in exercise science and psychology. After college, Whitney’s passion for sports transitioned into a coaching role at Greensboro College. Here, she served first as an assistant softball coach and strength and conditioning coach, before taking on the head softball coaching position in 2009.
Whitney Gelin’s CrossFit Journey
Whitney’s CrossFit journey began in January 2013, when she walked into College Hill CrossFit, marking a pivotal turn in her athletic career. Despite a background in competitive sports, Whitney was relatively new to the CrossFit scene but quickly found her footing. Her commitment and athleticism shone through, leading her to participate in the CrossFit Open within just a few months of starting. Whitney’s dedication to fitness and sports, combined with her coaching experience, provided a strong foundation for her success in CrossFit.
Competitive Achievements of Whitney Gelin
Whitney Gelin’s CrossFit career is highlighted by her remarkable achievements, including qualifying for the CrossFit Games multiple times (2015, 2017, 2018) and being named the world champion at the 2021 NoBull CrossFit Games Masters Competition (age 35-39). Her competitive spirit was evident from her early days, qualifying as an individual competitor for the Mid Atlantic Regional in 2013 shortly after joining College Hill CrossFit. Whitney’s preference for team competitions showcases her belief in the power of community and teamwork within the sport.
Personal Life and Coaching Philosophy
Aside from her competitive successes, Whitney Gelin is deeply passionate about coaching. She believes CrossFit offers an opportunity to be part of something greater than oneself, emphasizing personal growth, physical fitness, and community. Whitney is not only dedicated to her own athletic development but also to nurturing the growth of others in the sport. Her role as the heart and soul of 12th State CrossFit in Raleigh, NC, underlines her commitment to the CrossFit community, where she strives to help athletes achieve their goals.
With certifications ranging from CF-L1 to CF-L3 trainer, CrossFit Kids, and Gymnastics, Whitney’s expertise is vast. She enjoys the coaching aspect of CrossFit as much as competing, if not more, highlighting her holistic approach to the sport and wellness. Whitney Gelin’s story is a testament to the transformative power of CrossFit, both as an athlete and as a coach.
