04/01/2026
** Athlete Spotlight**
Tim Adams
1. Why did you start CrossFit?
I needed something that was structured, pushed me, and didn’t let me coast. I liked the idea of being part of something where people actually show up for each other. Plus, if I was going to suffer through workouts, I figured I might as well do it with a group. I grew up competing in sport, and I think I was missing that edge a bit. CrossFit has a good way of bringing that back… and humbling you on a regular basis.
2. What do you do for a living?
I am the Founder and CEO of a registered charity called Free Play for Kids. We provide free sport and play programs for kids across Edmonton, removing financial and access barriers so every kid can participate. We serve about 4,000 families in a year and have a staff of around 150. A big part of my work is building programs, partnerships, and systems that make that possible, while creating environments where kids feel safe, connected, and confident. A lot of what we do goes beyond sport—it’s really about giving kids a place to belong and setting them up for success in other parts of their lives. We also work with a lot of kids navigating some pretty tough realities, so the work can be heavy—but it makes the space we’re creating that much more important. So… a lot of emails, a lot of problem solving, a lot of speeches and a lot of figuring things out as we go.
3. Favorite CF exercise or WOD?
Anything that doesn’t include overhead squats, walkwalks or handstands! Haha. I like workouts that feel athletic—cardio-based with some lifting and fast-paced. Burpees, wall balls, or anything where you can just put your head down and go. The best ones are when you’re too busy moving to overthink how tired you are… or question your life choices halfway through.
4. Least favorite exercise or WOD?
See above. Anything overhead—overhead squats, handstands, wall walks…I don’t think this needs much explanation. Most people have seen how that goes for me. There’s usually a brief moment where I consider negotiating with the coach.
5. Most memorable moment at CF?
Doing my first competition with Denis and then my second with Brit. I really enjoy the competition environment. The results don’t matter much to me—it’s just fun being part of that energy and being around people pushing themselves. More recently, bringing my daughter with me has been pretty special. Being able to model hard work, how you handle challenges, and just the importance of taking care of yourself—it matters. Trying to build those habits early… while she still thinks what I’m doing is somewhat impressive. Haha.
6. What do you do outside of CF? and how does CF play a role in your day to day life?
Most of my time is spent working, coaching, or with my kids, so life moves pretty fast. CrossFit has become one of the only places where I can step away from all of that and just focus on something simple—show up, do the work.
It’s less about fitness and more about creating a bit of space in the day. It helps me reset, think clearer, and show up better everywhere else. A big part of my work is also encouraging kids and families to live active, healthy lives, so it’s important to me that I’m doing that myself. Hard to promote something if you’re not willing to live it.
7. What advice do you have for someone that is scared to try CF because it is “too hard” or they are scared?
Most people think it’s too hard because they’re picturing the top 5% of athletes. That’s not what most classes look like. Everything is scaled, and everyone is just trying to get through their own workout. The hardest part isn’t the workout—it’s walking in the first few times. After that, you realize pretty quickly that no one cares how good you are. They just care that you showed up.
8. What motivates you to keep coming back?
The people, the routine, and the accountability. Once it’s part of your schedule, it becomes something you don’t really negotiate with—you just go. And honestly, it’s usually the days I don’t feel like coming that matter the most. I’ve never regretted showing up.
9. What is one goal you are currently working on?
Consistency. Less about chasing big numbers, more about showing up, putting in the work, and improving a little bit over time. And, reluctantly, getting a bit better at anything overhead.
10. How has CrossFit helped your overall mental health?
I am one of the world's biggest advocates for sport, play and movement as medicine. Crossfit is one of the only times in my day that is just for me, instead of taking care of everyone else. It gives me a release, clears my head, and builds a kind of resilience that carries into everything else. When you regularly put yourself in uncomfortable situations, the rest of life feels a bit more manageable. It’s also a constant reminder that mindset is everything—how you approach a workout is usually how you approach everything else in life… including whether you panic a little when you see overhead squats on the board.
