April Athlete of the Month: Chandra Valenza

Congratulations Chandra, you are our May Athlete of the Month!

At 39, Chandra doesn’t fit the mold of someone who grew up chasing athletic accolades—but that’s exactly what makes her story so relatable. A self-described non-athlete in her early years, she found her stride through running, eventually completing multiple half-marathons and even tackling the rain-soaked Portland Marathon. What started as a solo pursuit to explore new routes and push personal limits ultimately led her to NoCoast, where she’s spent nearly three years rediscovering what fitness can look like. From hard-earned pull-ups to an unexpected love for bar muscle-ups (and a very clear dislike of burpees), Chandra’s journey is a testament to showing up, trying new things, and finding strength—both physical and mental—along the way. 

Thank you, Chandra, for being a part of NoCoast and our 6:45am crew! 

Age: 39 

Athletic/Sports history/highlights: 

Honestly, I have never considered myself an athletic person. I did not enjoy sports growing up, but did find the joy of running in high school. I've run several half-marathons and one marathon, the Portland Marathon. It rained the whole time! My favorite half-marathon location was Steamboat Springs. I played casual ultimate frisbee in college. We had a good group of people who just enjoyed throwing a disc around, so it wasn't too competitive, which I liked. 

How long have you been at NoCoast? 

It will be 3 years in August. 

How did you get into fitness/exercise? 

Running was my gateway fitness exercise. I love running long distances and finding fun routes that take me through parts of town I might not normally go to. I came to NoCoast because I felt like my fitness had plateaued and I needed something new. 

What is your favorite workout or movement? 

Ha! Uhhhh, I'm nervous to say because then it will be in the workouts and everyone will be cursing me. I think it's been fun lately to do jumping bar muscle-ups. Something about all those little movements to get yourself above the bar is exciting. 

What is your least favorite workout or movement? 

Burpees in any fashion. Burpee box jump over? gross. Burpee over bar? nope. Burpee jumping pull up? I'll pass. 

What is your most memorable NoCoast moment? 

When my 6:45 crew got to see me do one of my first pull-ups! I had been working on them for so long, and then one morning, I was trying it out, and you could see everyone kind of side-eyeing me to see if I'm going to do it. Then, I yelled, "I'm doing it!" And they all got to see. 

How does nutrition play a role in your fitness and recovery? 

After doing the nutrition challenge a few January's ago, I realized how important it is to get enough protein for the fullness factor. I knew protein was important, but when I was eating high protein, I was satiated and didn't need to snack. My go-to for after a workout is a banana and the SFH chocolate protein in water. I now look forward to those on my drive home. 

How has NoCoast improved your overall wellness? 

Oh my goodness, NoCoast has improved my overall wellness so much. First of all, I thank NoCoast for helping me feel confident in my body. This has shown up in many ways. I started skiing a few years ago, and the mental toughness I've learned from WODs has translated into learning how to ski in my late 30s (not an easy feat). This mental wellness also comes from my clothes fitting better, sleeping well, and really liking being strong. 

How has NoCoast changed your family? 

Ooh, good question. My husband and my son have both gone to NoCoast for classes so they know how awesome it is. They also know how much I enjoy it so we have made it a priority that I get to go to the morning classes most days of the week. My husband has said multiple times that he needs to work on his arms so that he can keep up with me. And I've been known to "clean" my 7 year old, with proper form! 

Advice to new people: 

Don't be afraid to ask questions and look a little silly! Everyone is so nice and wants to help you do your best. So, ask the "stupid" question and try a move even if you are not totally sure you'll look cool doing it.