Trainers

Andrea Jones

I was a high school athlete and have had a lifelong passion for fitness, completing multiple marathons and countless races in the past ten years. Before I became a personal trainer I would spend 99% of my time on the cardio equipment and 1%  of my time doing a bicep curl or two.  CrossFit allows me to combine my strength training into my endurance and speed work for a challenging, fun, and competitive workout! I love sharing this enthusiasm with people and take a personal approach to helping people reach their goal, whether it be weight loss, completing their first 5k or half marathon, or doing their first box jump! 

Certifications – CrossFit Level I Certified Trainer, CrossFit Kids Certified trainer, NASM Certified Personal Trainer, Group Training Coordinator, Prenatal Certified Trainer 

Mike Jones

I was a college lacrosse player and an infantry officer in the Marine Corps before moving to St Paul.  I was always able to maintain a high level of fitness during college and my time in the military because of the active nature of my lifestyle and putting in countless hours in the gym.  Once I left the military and had less time to devote to working out I had difficulty maintaining a high level of fitness with the traditional 30 minutes of cardio followed by 30 minutes of bodybuilding weight routine.  The day I found CrossFit it changed my life, and within a few months of becoming a CrossFitter I knew that this was something I wanted to share with everyone in my community who seeks health and fitness.  Fast forward 2 years and here we are, CrossFit St Paul! 

Certifications – CrossFit Level I Certified Trainer, CrossFit Olympic Lifting Certified Trainer, CrossFit Kids Certified Trainer

Tyler Quinn

My personal athletic history started at a young age. I grew up playing a number of different sports but found in time that my true passion lay in hockey and rowing. I went on to play hockey at the collegiate level for St. Olaf, where I was first introduced to CrossFit.  CrossFit has allowed me to realize my athletic potential, and work with a range of people from professional athletes and military special operations unit members to my mother and father.

Certifications – CrossFit Level I Certified Trainer, CrossFit Olympic Lifting Certified Trainer, CrossFit Gymnastics Certified Trainer

Stephanie Cantu

My approach to fitness has always been constantly varied, which is why the CrossFit methodology fits with me. As a native Texan, my sport of choice growing up was competitive dance. I trained in classical ballet for 10 years before cheering on the varsity dance team all through high school. In college, I practiced Vinyasa yoga and Pilates (both mat and reformer bed) to maintain my flexibility. I also trained in and taught kids the martial art of Shaolin-do kung fu for five years. I joined CrossFit in July 2009 and found a new sport that met all my fitness needs and wants at once! I welcome all people with various fitness backgrounds and levels and strive to relate CrossFit to what they feel most comfortable with. 

Certifications – CrossFit Level I Certified Trainer, CrossFit Kids Certified Trainer

Chris Powers

I grew up participating in a wide variety of different sports and competed in Track and Field throughout college. From a pretty young age I’ve had a strong interest in training, nutrition and how the human body worked, eventually leading me to a degree in Health Promotion. After graduation I decided to follow what I was truly passionate about and become a trainer. It’s been a wonderful experience and I’ve been privileged enough to work with many different people from all walks of life and share with them what I believe to be the best general fitness program on the planet… CrossFit.

Certifications – CrossFit Level I Certified Trainer, CrossFit Basic
Barbell Certified Trainer, NASM Certified Personal Trainer, RKC Level
I Kettlebell Instructor

Melanie Ayres

Personal health and fitness have always been important to me. In the past I’ve tried gyms, yoga, running, cycling, and kickboxing among other activities. Although I’ve had some success with these activities, it wasn’t until a kickboxing instructor introduced me to Crossfit in 2005 that I truly found a fitness program that inspired me. I was fortunate enough to train at the original Crossfit with Annie Sakamoto and many other exceptional trainers. My first day at Crossfit with the encouragement of my trainer, I was able to climb a rope for the first time in my life. I was hooked! Crossfit St Paul opened shortly after I moved to the Midwest and I was excited to find another amazing group of trainers and athletes. The challenging workouts and supportive community here are an incredible motivator. Almost every day at Crossfit, starting with my first rope climb, I’ve found I can do something I didn’t think I could! I’m excited to share that experience with others.

Certifications – CrossFit Level I Certified Trainer