Melanie Wells
Melanie Wells

Deadlift 5 rep max: 240 lbs.

Back Squat 5 rep max: 145 lbs.

1000m Row: 4 min 17 sec

7-mile run : 1 hour 10 min

Half Marathon time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Qualifications

CrossFit Level 1 Certification June 2025

Coach

Melanie Wells

I’ve been married to my husband, James, for 28 years, and together we’ve raised three amazing kids—Hannah (25, married to Eric), Haley (23), and Bradley (18). By day, I’m a Mathematics Professor at Hinds Community College.

I grew up in Clinton playing every sport I could—softball, basketball, track, cheer, and gymnastics. Athletics gave me confidence, a sense of community, and a love for competition that has stayed with me throughout my life.

As an adult, I stayed active through running (even finishing a half-marathon!) before discovering CrossFit about 10 years ago. That’s when everything clicked—CrossFit gave me the perfect outlet for my competitive spirit, a chance to reconnect with my gymnastics roots, and an amazing community to grow stronger with.

When I first started, I had never touched a barbell or built upper body strength. Now, I’m stronger than I’ve ever been—and age is just a number! I love pushing past limits, setting new PRs, and encouraging others to do the same.

One thing that drew me to this gym was its focus on recovery. I’ve had the privilege of coaching in the recovery class (aka Sober Savages), which is especially meaningful since my husband is in recovery. It’s given me the chance to connect with others who share similar experiences, and to encourage them in both fitness and life. I am thankful that God has led our family to this gym and to this community.