NORAK CROSSFIT
“It’s hard to beat a person that doesn’t give up.” – Babe Ruth
WHO WE ARE
Our facility at Norak CrossFit offers a spacious, pristine environment nestled in Winnipeg’s vibrant Exchange District, conveniently located just off picturesque Waterfront Drive. Situated merely five minutes away from The Forks and within close proximity to all the attractions the Exchange District has to offer, our location provides both accessibility and charm.
When you step into Norak CrossFit, you’ll experience more than just a gym. Our warm and inviting atmosphere exudes a small-town feel, creating a sense of community and belonging in the heart of the Exchange District. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or new to CrossFit, you’ll feel right at home in our welcoming space.
Come and join us at Norak CrossFit, where fitness meets community in the heart of Winnipeg’s Exchange District. We look forward to welcoming you into our family!
Our Mission is to Develop:
Longevity.
Our belief at Norak CrossFit is not purely to achieve aesthetic results, but instead to develop fitness for life, keeping people healthy and active into their later years. We want to push back the nursing home. We are focused on developing a community of people who will not only exercise, but will move well, performing the common, uncommonly well. We want our members to be active and mobile long past their peers. We want the 75 year old to be able to carry their groceries from the car to the kitchen while searching for their keys. We want grandparents who can run with their grandkids. We want the high school athlete to dedicate themselves to the betterment of their craft and put in that extra work needed to chase a university scholarship. We want to help new parents get out of their rut, and become active again. In short, we want the most out of life.
Community.
Our name “Norak” is a combination of the words North, and Meraki. North was added because we may live in the southern part of our country, we still all survive a northern climate, which is a shared experience that helps bond us as a community. Meraki is a greek word meaning “ the essence of yourself that is put into your work”. We believe that our gym is a place for putting work into yourself. Our goal is to foster a community of like minded people who want to invest time and energy into building a better self.
Community is one of the truly unique features of the CrossFit exercise regime. To go through seemingly insurmountable workouts together with a group, builds a kind of bond that is uncommon in today’s society of phones and media.
Growth.
We want to foster an attitude of always striving to move the needle closer to the goals you have set for yourself, whatever they may be. At our gym, we are always coaching you to achieve better technique, a better time, more weight, or the best you can do that day during our workouts. Not everyday is going to be a personal best. But giving your best that day is still progressing.
We believe that by investing yourself into your workouts, and achieving new heights of both physical and mental toughness, you will be able to transfer that new found strength to your life outside the gym and affect positive change in all aspects.
At Norak CrossFit, we strive to be a lead from the front kind of gym. What this means to us, is that we work at developing and empowering our front line staff. We feel this helps deliver a better end product, as the coaches have an ownership in the classes they are teaching. This, combined with the fact that our coaches do CrossFit, makes your gym experience feel personal, and will help build a level of trust with your coach, which does not exist outside of this fitness community.
When you find yourself halfway into a workout, and are thinking to yourself, there is no possible way I will be able to finish this, your coach will be there to help you push through your perceived limits, because they have also done that same workout and have had that exact feeling.
MEET OUR COACHES
Megan Maes
In a CrossFit gym, you are continuously presented with challenges and then given with the guidance to successfully navigate your way through. This stuff is GOLD! Valuable life experiences while I’m getting fitter. Yes, please!
It didn’t take long to see that in a CrossFit class there are bonds that form with oneself and with others. It begins with the methodology behind the coaching and programming, and ends with the shared experiences. These connections elicit a significant shift in mindset. It is such a noteworthy occurrence that some call it magic. Me – I call it magic.
Now, as a head coach, I feel it is paramount that our coaches possess the ability to find opportunity for growth within every session; from warm-up to the final repetition. A caring coach will dedicate much of their free time to study how they teach athletes to identify and seize these opportunities; progressively overcoming greater tasks as they evolve.
Aside from training with Norak athletes, I enjoy experiencing the world through outdoor physical activity. This means biking, hiking, climbing, running, canoeing and more.
Norak is a space where athletes of all ages and abilities come to increase their fitness and overall confidence, increasing their likelihood to say “Yes” to intimidating tasks. Norak is a gateway to living a bigger, more fulfilling life.
Finding CrossFit not only changed my approach to training but how I make daily life decisions. I can thank this experience for a broader outlook on life.
Credentials & Achievements:
- CrossFit Level 1
- CrossFit Level 2
- CrossFit Anatomy
- CrossFit Nutrition
- CrossFit Running
- CrossFit Weightlifting
- CrossFit Movement & Mobility
- The National Coaching Certification Program – Weightlifting Level 1 & 2
- Klokov Olympic Weightlifting Seminar
- Louise Eberts Gymnastics Clinics Level 1, 2 & 3 (15 hours)
- Fitness Coach Mentoring with Optimum Performance Training
- Agatsu Lower Body Joint Mobility and Movement
- Agatsu Upper Body Joint Mobility and Movement
- Functional Movement Training (FMT) RockPods & RockFloss
- Manitoba Fitness Council – Fitness Theory
- St. John’s Ambulance First Aid and CPR
- Instructor Apprentice with The International Canadian School of Survival
- Working With The Diverse Customer
- Winnipeg Lifestyle Awards – Personal Trainer Of The Year Award (2019)
- Winnipeg Lifestyle Awards – Local Fitness Place Of The Year Award (Norak CrossFit 2020 & 2021)
Mike Higham
I discovered CrossFit in 2012 as I was walking on the treadmill watching tv at your local global gym. I was overweight and barely knew what I was doing. I was intrigued with what I saw and decided to try a class. Little did I know this would change my life forever. With some great coaching and a powerful community I was hooked. Every workout left me challenged both physically and mentally, that combined with some proper nutrition lead me to lose over 25% body fat and 100 pounds.
It’s my goal to be the best coach I can be, inspire others to change their physical limits and feel accomplished, proud and wanting more.
Credentials
- CrossFit Level 1
- Agatsu Lower Body Joint Mobility and Movement
- Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Training
- Workshop: “Working Effectively With Violent and Aggressive States (WEVAS)
- Workshop: “Vulnerable Persons Act”
- Workshop: ”Fetal Alcohol Syndrome”
- Workshop: “Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training” (A.S.I.S.T)
- St. John’s Ambulance First Aid and CPR Training Certification
Tiffanie Bruneau
My true passion lies with helping women and pregnant and postpartum athletes. My journey here started with my passion and realization of what the CrossFit methodology can do and be. I began making my health a priority when I moved to Winnipeg to attend the University of Winnipeg at 18 years old, I had a few health issues to work through which brought me to exercise, movement and nutrition. By 2011, I had begun CrossFit and my world shifted. I was lucky enough to coach through my Kinesiology degree allowing me to practically apply what I was learning. This education helped me focus on my healing journey which has brought me to this point today.
Roll around to 2018, I am now an Osteopathic Manual Practitioner, the owner of my own therapy business, Kinetically Whole Therapies as well as the mother to a inquisitive, happy little boy. I believe my pregnancy happened for a reason, and it shifted my goals and ambitions. It made me realize the gap in knowledge and education surrounding pregnant and postpartum athleticism. I am eager to bring this to Winnipeg, to help our women feel empowered to heal pre, post & during pregnancy.
Credentials:
- Bachelors of Kinesiology (BKin) – University of Winnipeg
- CrossFit Level 1
- CrossFit Gymnastics
- Agatsu Lower Body Joint Mobility and Movement
- Osteopathic Manual Practitioner (DOMP) – National Academy of Osteopathy..
- Pregnant & Postpartum Athleticism Coach
- Current student – Kindred Academy
- Red Cross First Aid/CPR
Jedd Ylagan
CrossFit has been a part of my life since 2016 and in those 5 years I have gained an unexpected family. For me, CrossFit is not just about the physical benefits. It’s about learning, engaging, getting involved, being stimulated, challenged, to gain life long friendships, and most importantly to have fun. CrossFit has allowed me to grow in more ways than I could have ever thought and has contributed to the man I have become.
My passion is people, anatomy, and human mechanics. Early on I became intrigued with the body, it’s movement, and how it works. I have been fortunate enough to have witnessed first hand the great benefits fitness can offer people. With this, I immediately knew I wanted a career that incorporated my passions, allowed me to be a part of someone’s journey, and if permitted, lend a healing hand.
Norak allowed me to begin my adventure by becoming a Coach. Coaching added fuel to the fire and opened my eyes to the career choice of Massage Therapy. Massage Therapy allows me to work with the body and its movement, along with taking part in my clients health and well being. With the combination of Massage Therapy and Coaching, I have been able to expand my knowledge, skills, and abilities and continue to strive for my full potential.
I hope to see you take the leap and dive into the world of Norak CrossFit. It’s truly remarkable and you won’t look back.
See you in class,
Coach Jedd
Credentials:
- Canadian Red Cross Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED Level C
- ‘Evolve College of Massage Therapy’ RMT Diploma
- CrossFit Level 1
Philip Antazo
I was first introduced to CrossFit in 2011 when I felt that my physical training and fitness goals needed an overhaul. All it took was one introductory class and I was hooked.
From its diverse movement modalities and focus on not only physical strength, but also in mind, I found in CrossFit something I didn’t even realize I was searching for. Physical fitness had a completely new definition in my mind.
What amazed me the most about CrossFit, is that it has less to do with physical feats of strength or endurance and more to do with the relationships built between people working together. The conversations between those lying on the floor covered in sweat after a Metcon, the positive impact a coach can have in someone’s day and the camaraderie among the members for that one hour, that was what I found truly amazing.
Fast forward to the present day and I couldn’t be more honoured to be a part of Megan Maes’ mission to bring health and well being to its members and the surrounding community. And while my own personal training goals are ever changing and I have yet to find the strength to say ‘NO’ to a donut, I am excited and humbled at the opportunity to coach and be a part of NORAK CrossFit.
Credentials:
- CrossFit Level 1
- Red Cross CPR/First Aid Level C
- Workshop: Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Training
- Workshop: Suicide and Self Harm Intervention Training
- Workshop: Workplace Diversity Training
Ryan Cumpsty
I came to Norak in 2019 after having spent two years at another gym in the city. I had over a year of experience coaching and competing at high level competitions. Having heard about Coach Megan through the community, I knew that Norak was definitely somewhere I could grow both as an athlete and a coach.
I never want to be someone that is limited in life by their health. If I want to climb a mountain, I will climb a mountain. And that is my goal as a coach: to every person that walks through the door, I want you to not feel limited in life. I want to help you climb your mountain, whatever your mountain may be.
Credentials:
- CrossFit Level 3
- CrossFit Level 1
- CrossFit Level 2
- FMT Mobility Specialist in myofascial release
- Canadian Red Cross Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED Level C
Jennifer Finateri
As a lifetime sports and fitness enthusiast I enjoy activities that challenge the mind and body. When I found CrossFit, I knew it was something to sink into and find an endless journey of challenges and accomplishments.
I started CrossFit in 2013 during my posting in Nova Scotia as an RCAF Search and Rescue Pilot. A few coworkers introduced me to it, and I immediately fell in love with passion and the atmosphere created by the people that participate in the sport. There was no CrossFit gym in the town we were living in. My friends, coworkers and I would meet at the military base gym and create a workout or complete an existing CrossFit workout. We didn’t exactly know what we were doing but the energy and the fun we experienced was what made it so addicting. The drive and perseverance of people struggling together toward a similar goal regardless of the location, equipment, or conditions is what inspired me to dedicate myself to CrossFit.
Norak CrossFit has given me the opportunity to develop the skills to help people become more healthy and vibrant versions of themselves. My goal is to create a welcoming environment where any level of athlete from newcomer to the elite CrossFitter will find new limits. Having something to look forward to aside from just physical goals is a key component in effective training. The collaborative experiences we will create at Norak will bring more joy to our lives in and out of the gym and I am eager to see what we can develop together.
Credentials:
- Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) – University of Manitoba
- CrossFit Level 1 Online
- St. John’s Ambulance First Aid and CPR Training Certification
Michelle Matthews
When I joined Norak, I met so many amazing people. The community has only ever been a fun and encouraging one, with such caring coaches I look up to. I found myself very passionate about programming, movement, learning and helping others. This made me want to take the next step to become a coach which now allows me to spread my passion to the members of Norak and be a part of their journey to reaching full potential. I teach spin classes as well and enjoy motivating and pushing people to challenge their mind and body, so this seemed like a great opportunity to bring that into my coaching in CrossFit. I have always looked forward to building relationships with our athletes and want to help push them towards goals that are fulfilling and just get people moving their bodies. I love coaching, educating and am eager to continue growing as both an athlete and a coach.
Credentials:
- Diploma of Osteopathic Manual Practice
- CrossFit Level 1
- Canadian Red Cross Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED Level C
Crystal Kirby-Peloquin
At a young age, I learned that fitness and food are inseparable.
My fitness journey started at 12 with a few weights in a basement. My dad coached me with the “Rocky” soundtrack in the background, and he made protein shakes when we were done.
I learned what it felt like to be strong, and I’ve been in love with fitness ever since.
Track and field, yoga, basketball, triathlons, weightlifting, bodybuilding, cycling and CrossFit—I loved all of it. And with every day of training, I learned more about how to eat to accomplish my goals.
In 2009, my husband and I started coaching fitness boot camps, and in 2010 we started CrossFit 204. By 2015, I knew a lot about fitness but less about food, so I dedicated myself to learning about the other half of the equation. I became a certified nutrition coach through Eat To Perform.
In 2016 I started 204Lifestyle. My goal was to offer a program that combined diet and exercise to produce not just fitness, but health. And the results were dramatic.
I have seen people change their bodies and their lives, whether they want to lose weight, gain muscle, compete in an event or just feel good about themselves. I’ve helped people lose more than 100 lb, I’ve helped people do a pull-up for the first time, and I’ve helped people build limitless confidence in themselves.
This has been done without harsh, restrictive, crash diets. Instead, I teach people how to create habits that can be sustained forever. Not a diet—a lifestyle. Clients create healthy habits to fuel their training, and they learn how to eat all the foods they love as part of a healthy sustainable plan.
As a nutrition coach, I help individuals navigate the diet landscape. I want to empower my clients with the tools they need to succeed on their own, when they’re ready. No matter where you are starting from, or what your goals are, anything is possible with a little knowledge, effort and accountability.
Credentials:
CrossFit Level 1 & Level 2
Eat To Perform Level 1
Eat To Perform Level 2: The Science of Body Recomposition
Canadian Red Cross Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Level C
TESTIMONIALS
“Being a part of this bootcamp changed my life.”
“If you’re looking for a trainer who is down to earth, genuine, with a kind soul who will also be sure to kick your ass in the gym, Meg is your girl.”
“Megan does an excellent job of working with everyone’s strengths and weaknesses and can modify any movement to deal with aches and pains.”
Great coaching team and location. I have been keeping an eye out for a CrossFit gym in the exchange area for the last few years. Highly recommend this place to people of all fitness levels. The atmosphere will keep you coming back for the enjoyment while achieving your fitness goals at the same time!
I love this place! Beautiful big open facility that is clean and well kept. The coaches are friendly, supportive and really know their stuff. They go above and beyond to make sure you are getting the most out of each workout. Norak, and Coach Megan have helped me tremendously with getting in shape, building my confidence, and helping me move better and safer. The best part of my day is walking into the gym and feeling like I am home. Norak has done an amazing job building a community that feels like a family.
I love this place! Beautiful big open facility that is clean and well kept. The coaches are friendly, supportive and really know their stuff. They go above and beyond to make sure you are getting the most out of each workout. Norak, and Coach Megan have helped me tremendously with getting in shape, building my confidence, and helping me move better and safer. The best part of my day is walking into the gym and feeling like I am home. Norak has done an amazing job building a community that feels like a family.