December Athlete of the Month: Jing Zhang

Congratulations Jing, you are the December NoCoast Athlete of the Month!

At 42, Jing has somehow survived five years at NoCoast—proof that miracles do happen. He rolled in looking for stress relief and maybe some muscles, and got hooked by the community and the fact that the workouts never lets you get too comfortable. With a childhood full of baseball and flag football, he now spend his time trying to look cool during Olympic lifts, while avoiding wall balls like they’re taxes. “NoCoast has boosted my strength, confidence, and ability to walk out of the gym happier—even when I question my life choices mid-workout.” 

His advice to newbies: don’t overthink it—show up, be consistent, track your wins, and embrace progress over perfection (or at least over face-planting).

Age: 42

Athletic/Sports history/highlights: 

I grew up playing a lot of baseball and flag football in middle school and high school. 

How long have you been at NoCoast? 

Wow... I've been part of the Nocoast community for 5 years now. It's been great!

How did you get into fitness/exercise? 

I started my journey when I needed something to relieve stress and something that I could build on and commit to. NoCoast appealed to me because of the variety and this particular community. 

What is your favorite workout or movement?

Anything olympic lifting related... snatch, clean and jerk particularly 

What is your least favorite workout or movement? 

Where do I start? Wall balls comes to mind 

What is your most memorable NoCoast moment? 

7 unbroken muscle ups

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

I have a lot to improve here. I'll be honest and say I like to eat and drink whatever and whenever. I'll just have to go harder next class.

How has NoCoast improved your overall wellness?

Nocoast has helped me build strength, confidence and consistency - not just physically, but mentally too. The community keeps me motivated and invigorated. Coaches are always encouraging and I always walk out happier.

How has NoCoast changed your family? 

It's been great to share this lifestyle with my family. We have middle school aged kids that are eager to start training as well. We've become more active together and more mindful about exercise. 

Advice to new people:

Don't complicate things - consistency is important and focus on progress, not perfection. Use the app to track your progression times, lifts, achievements, etc