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Meet the Iron Hero CrossFit Team

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Our Story

Movement has always been a big part of Chris’ life. After instructing TaeKwonDo for over a decade, he moved onto Personal Training upon graduating from the University of Nebraska Omaha in 2008 with a degree in Exercise Science. Since founding Iron Hero in 2015, he has focused on fostering a healthy, happy, and hard working group of like-minded people.

“You are only as resilient as your support system allows you to be, after all. Every person has the ability, and the right, to improve themselves physically and emotionally and we are here to act as a guide. We have an amazing group of qualified coaches, and amazing humans, who use a variety of approaches to connect and support their clients. Our goal is to help you achieve yours, step by step!”

Chris Suiter

Founder

Bachelor's in Exercise Science
Functional Movement Specialist Level 2
USAW Level 2 Sports Performance Coach & Club Coach
CrossFit Level 2 Trainer
CrossFit Gymnastics
NASM Performance Enhancement Specialist
TaeKwonDo Instructor
Formerly HKC Certified (Hardstyle Kettlebell)
“My first CrossFit workout [in 2012] found me wondering, “what the heck just happened? At that point, I knew what path I wanted to follow as it was the most engaging training modality I had ever stumbled across. It also happened to be the most complete, functional, and inclusive way of training as anyone… absolutely anyone… can do CrossFit. And as there are fewer things more exciting and fulfilling than witnessing one of our clients achieve something they’ve never done before. It is even more exciting [for me] when they realize it was due to their own effort and consistency. I am just along for the ride. Growth is important in all aspects of life and that is what I’m here to help you achieve!”

Austen Claar

Coach

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
I was introduced to CrossFit in 2020 by a good friend who was very passionate about fitness and saw my potential. After my first experience, I completely fell in love with the sport. I recognized how well CrossFit could build mental and physical toughness to get through life’s toughest challenges.

I used that to help me during my time in the Iowa Army National Guard. Since then, my passion has grown to a degree that made me want to help others get fit and healthy. I saw an opportunity to learn more and didn’t hesitate. This is more than just working out, it’s building relationships within a community and helping others grow to be the best version of themselves!

Gina Petersen

Coach

Certified CrossFit Level 3 Trainer
My first CrossFit workout was in 2008. My dad and brother had joined a CrossFit gym and brought me to a community workout.
 
Before CrossFit, I had been attending group fitness classes that used the same music, movements, and routines over and over again. While I enjoyed it, the lack of variety killed my motivation. I was drawn to CrossFit because of the variety of movements and workouts.
I have been a teacher in some way since high school, so becoming a CrossFit coach seemed like the perfect next step for me. I got my CrossFit Level 3 certification in November 2024 and became a Certified CrossFit Trainer.

Greg Petersen

Coach

CrossFit Level 2 Trainer
CrossFit Weightlifting
CrossFit Mobility
CrossFit Masters
StrongFirst Kettlebell Certified

After 15 years in martial arts, I realized I wasn’t as strong as I wanted to be. My search for a fitness program led me to CrossFit – and I’ve been hooked ever since 2008. I am driven by the power of community, consistency, and the pursuit of personal growth.

I believe in a balanced approach to fitness that blends high-intensity training with proper technique, recovery, and longevity. My goal as a coach is to help people safely and effectively discover their own strength, resilience, and potential – both inside and outside the gym.

I’ve been coaching CrossFit for over 11 years, including 9 years as the owner and head coach of my own affiliate. I also competed in powerlifting for more than 5 years, gaining valuable experience in strength training and performance.

Katie Thomas

Coach

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer

“As a former college soccer player and powerlifter searching for a fitness path, I stumbled upon CrossFit in January 2023. This sport, once just a childhood curiosity, has transformed my life remarkably in just a year. Not only has it quickly improved my physical health, but the most significant impact was on my mental well-being. CrossFit became my journey to holistic wellness. Becoming a CrossFit coach was my way of sharing the transformative impact this sport had on me. I’m driven to witness others thrive, stay committed, and forge connections while guiding them toward a happier, healthier life.”

Liz Chvatal

Coach

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
“I’ve been in the CrossFit world for 10 years now. In that time, I’ve been in many CrossFit competitions and everyday classes. I love the adrenaline of a competition but I love the community of classes. As a coach, I love seeing the connections people make with others and with themselves. Seeing the growth in confidence, physical, and mental strength is amazing. I can honestly say that going from everyday gym goer to being a coach was one of my favorite CrossFit decisions I’ve ever made.”

Rylee Johnson

Coach

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
I started my CrossFit journey in 2019. As a former gymnast and softball player, I quickly fell in love with the community and became addicted to the sport. A few years later, I got my Level 1 and began coaching. It’s the only job I’ve ever had that doesn’t feel like a job. I love getting to know the community and making connections with people that share the same love for CrossFit and want to live a healthy lifestyle.
 
Through CrossFit, I learned how to optimize my nutrition and love helping people learn how to eat healthy.

Stephanie Davis

Client Success Manager

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