DIANE TORRES

COACH

Tell us a little bit about you, your background, education, and accolades.

My passion for health and fitness was uncovered at an early age when I started to play soccer. I am a southern gal at heart, born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. I embrace the southern lifestyle and always try to be outside. I’d arguably say people are a lot nicer down there but I adjusted to Upstate New York and continued to find my way through soccer. I was a collegiate athlete and attended The Rochester Institute of Technology. Outside of schooling and work, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, sailing, hiking, good food, and music festivals. I might seem intimidating at first but usually it’s just because I am deep in thought. Once you get me to talk about something I am passionate about you might be there all day. I try to keep high energy and love to make people smile and use that to also be the self-proclaimed, best dancer on the NOVA team.

What do you enjoy most about coaching at NOVA?

I love the community. I love coaching at a place that feels like home. Our facility colors are also a bonus. We come together and show each other what grit looks like and always cheer each other on. We choose to rise above all judgment and negativity and that is what sets us apart and keeps it a safe and welcoming environment for all. 

What was your most memorable coaching  moment at NOVA?

I have a handful but I would say my number one is anytime there’s an athlete who starts to run! Something so simple but something so hard. We get people from all fitness levels and we scale and modify accordingly. When I see an athlete who once couldn’t run and later completes a full running workout, that is the biggest joy!

What is one way CrossFit has positively impacted your daily life?

My range of motion was limited after reconstruction in my knee and I didn’t know if I could be the athlete I once was. I had done every injury in the book and had to start over constantly. The community around me didn’t let me quit and I know I would never quit on them. Every day I am impacted by people who want to be better. I better myself so I can be better for them and anyone else who crosses my path. 

What advice would you give to someone new to CrossFit?

It’s the best thing to be a part of and it might seem super silly, confusing, and extremely hard at first but give it a chance and I promise you’ll fall in love with it. Your body will also fall in love with it. We are here to help and will always highlight your successes.