Jocelyn Rylee is leading the charge to bring nutrition back to the center of the CrossFit conversation. A longtime affiliate owner, Seminar Staff trainer, and leader of the in-person CrossFit Nutrition Course, Jocelyn blends science, education, and deep experience in her approach to food and fitness.
In this episode, Denise and Jocelyn dig into the foundations of health, the evolution of nutrition in the CrossFit world, and the difference between eating for performance and eating for longevity. You’ll walk away rethinking your plate and your pantry.
Topics Included
Why nutrition is foundational to the CrossFit methodology.
The Zone diet and the early culture of CrossFit nutrition.
The difference between performance eating and long-term health.
Why we need to cook again — and how it made us human.
Practical, simple and realistic steps to address nutrition.
Resources Mentioned
Nutrition for the Every CrossFit Athlete (New Course, led by Jocelyn) → https://www.crossfit.com/nutrition-for-the-everyday-crossfit-athlete
"What Is Fitness" by Greg Glassman (2002)
CrossFit Level 1 and Level 2 Manuals
World-Class Fitness in 100 Words
“The Zone Diet” by Dr. Barry Sears
"Humans as Cookingvores" (Scientific paper referenced)
Community Highlight
CrossFit Optimistic is owned by Mike Martinez in San Antonio, Texas. Years ago, Mike and his wife Angelina walked away from corporate jobs and big salaries in pursuit of something more meaningful. For Mike, an Army veteran still serving in the reserves, that meant giving back to the veteran community. In the early days, the gym focused heavily on charitable work and programs for wounded warriors and adaptive athletes. From training three adaptive athletes on their way to the Paralympics to hosting teams like the Korean Adaptive Sled Hockey Team, CrossFit Optimistic became a national haven for adaptive training.
Looking back, Mike says the hard times were worth it. He makes a modest living, gets to coach alongside his now-adult kids, and isn’t chasing more. When we asked what’s next, he smiled and said, “What do you do when your life exceeds your dreams?”
Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here → https://crossfit.surveysparrow.com/s/CrossFit-Community-Stories/tt-PrkSJ
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