Kevin Sawyer

OWNER | head COACH

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

As a kid, I played any sport I could until I narrowed it down to wrestling and soccer in high school. Growing up active laid the foundation for a lifetime of health and fitness. Shortly after graduating, I enlisted in the Army where I was introduced to weight lifting and other forms of physical activity. It was then that I realized how important daily physical activity had an impact on mental health - I had found my passion. After leaving the Army, I sought out an education and personal training certification to build my several year long career as a personal trainer. When I became the owner of NOVA Fitness, I had two goals, 1. to reach as many people as possible so I could help them improve their health, build their confidence, and positively impact their community and 2. to support fitness and health professionals to have a meaningful, fulfilling, and prosperous career. 

What do you enjoy most about coaching at NOVA?

Seeing members believe in themselves. When a member is willing to leave their comfort zone and just try, it’s the absolute best! The physical accomplishments are great and fun to cheer on, but the confidence built after overcoming adversity is life changing. The artificially created stress of exercise impacts us both physically and mentally in a safe environment that promotes personal growth. There are few places that we’re able to do that, and even fewer people willing to accept it.

What was your most memorable coaching moment at NOVA?

Every time I see a veteran member help out a newer member. At one time, each and every member didn’t have much experience and was unsure of what to do. To see them develop into a member with a wealth of knowledge that they’re willing to pass on to someone else is more than I could have ever dreamt of. 

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

CrossFit is what gets me out of bed everyday! It's not just my job, but it's my passion. It's the conduit that allows me to impact others. Through CrossFit I get to see our members accomplish physical tasks they never thought were possible and build the confidence to attack any obstacle life can throw their way.

What advice would you give to someone new to CrossFit?

Try, try, and try again! CrossFit provides a lifetime of self exploration and self testing. There will be no mastering of a skill or technique or no superior fitness obtained that allows you to take your foot off the gas pedal and finish your journey. Everything you do and accomplish throughout the journey provides you with what you need. Don’t worry that the movement doesn’t look perfect, don’t stress your time if it isn’t what you wanted it to be, don’t quit because it’s difficult - just keep showing up!