Team of Expert Coaches

Armor coaches are dedicated to helping you safely and effectively accomplish your goals in an engaging environment. All of our coaches have several years experience participating in CrossFit and coaching others. Each coach has completed an extensive internship designed to take full advantage of the experience and knowledge of our in-house Doctor of Physical Therapy, Zach Rynders.

STAFF
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Owner + Coach

Joe Stewart

CrossFit Level 2 Trainer
USAW Level 1 Coach
Adaptive and Inclusive Trainer

I started my CrossFit journey at Armor Athletics because I needed a sense of purpose in my fitness. I was immediately challenged and encouraged by the coaches & members. I thrived off the healthy competitive nature and accustomed to that from my time in the military. Shortly after I decided to become a coach since I have always been passionate about instructing and the development of others and watching them achieve their goals. I have been a coach here at Armor for 5+ years and truly believe in the Armor way of health and fitness. The Armor way has enabled me to endure the rigors and prolong my professions in the military, wildland firefighting, and as a coach. As the owners, our intent is on building upon the culture and community we have forged through the years. Our coaching focus is of an endless pursuit in education, training, and knowledge while perfecting our craft to ensure we are providing our members with elite instruction and programming, to safely build longevity in strength, endurance, and overall wellness.

Owner + Coach

Samantha Stewart

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
Adaptive and Inclusive Trainer

I have always had an active lifestyle and loved volleyball, swimming, running, and yoga. CrossFit was unlike any exercise I’ve done, and it pushed me beyond what I thought my limitations were. I gained strength and learned the importance of functional and adaptive fitness for health and wellness. I started my teaching/ coaching journey with a Yoga Instructor (200RYT) Certification in 2018 and went on to complete my CrossFit Level 1 Certification. My husband, Joe, and I were provided the opportunity to become the owners of Armor after several years of membership. Our mission and vision includes continuing to provide exceptional coaching for our members and cultivating an inclusive environment. We want to support and guide our members to help them be the best version of themselves. I’m very grateful to be a part of the Armor Family!

Coach

Jess Kimball

CrossFit Level 2 Trainer
USAW Level 1 Coach
Coach + General Manager
Adaptive and Inclusive Trainer

I was always an active kid, participated in sports and grew up on a farm, helping in the fields hauling hay bales or moving lumber. I was introduced to crossfit by a friend that knew I enjoyed physical fitness and intensity. After my first class I was hooked. On fitness, of course, but also showing up everyday to a community that encouraged you to do things you never thought your body could do. After years of participating in crossfit and learning so much about the body and the importance of functional fitness and health, I was inspired to share with everyone the same passion I found in crossfit years ago. I wanted to be able to help people achieve what they never imagined they could, and learn the importance and effects of moving every day has on your body in such a positive way. And in the same way I did, in a fun, energetic and encouraging community of like minded people.

Coach

Molly Yoshikawa

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer

To be the best teammate I can be is the core of who I am, and Armor Athletics has given me a community to thrive in this capacity. I grew up helping at the family-business’ warehouse and participating in team sports, where I was fortunate enough to play softball at the collegiate level. Little did I know, my best athletic years were yet to come. I knew small tid-bits about fitness but nothing of immense value. A good friend convinced me to try my first CrossFit class at Armor, and boy, did I embrace the philosophy! The knowledge and enthusiasm were exactly what I thrived on, and the new-found push from the coaches and fellow members alike became addicting. Soon I could see changes in myself on multiple levels. I could move my body like never before, my mobility increased where I thought I was just “stuck being inflexible,” I could see changes in body composition, and the best part; I had a new confidence in feeling great both physically and mentally. I became a coach because I want to pass on the experience and motivation that Armor Athletics has given me. To be the support and encouragement for people who just want to leave the day a little bit stronger and healthier. Teaching what I love is one the greatest fulfillments I could ask for.

Coach

Anthony Valenzuela

CrossFit Level 1 Trainer
Adaptive and Inclusive Trainer

Before joining Armor Athletics in 2019, I lived a sedentary lifestyle. I had back problems, poor mobility and was overweight. Starting CrossFit at Armor helped me combat the consequences of my previously unhealthy lifestyle almost immediately. With consistent training, I became faster and stronger, but more importantly, my quality of life improved. As a coach, I want to teach you how to move better and help you reach your personal goals while still learning and improving myself.

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Tacoma Crossfit Gym Armor Athletics
Location and Phone Number

5206 South Tacoma Way

Tacoma, WA 98409

253-777-9714

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