Bethany Flores — Identity, Scaling, and Growth in Life and CrossFit

“This year, I had to commit to a different way of thinking and training with a lot of uncertainty before seeing the fruits of my labor. It was very, very scary the way I had to train this year because I went into the season not even knowing if I was going to compete at all.”
Six-time CrossFit Games athlete Bethany Shadburne Flores joins the show to share her story of growth, finding self-confidence, working through injuries, and advocating for herself in and outside of the CrossFit gym.
Flores grew up as a gymnast and has competed in bodybuilding competitions, triathlons, half-marathons, and obstacle courses. She started CrossFit in 2015 and qualified for her first CrossFit Games in 2017. Most recently, Flores competed at the 2023 CrossFit Games after missing out on the 2022 season due to a back injury.
Over the years, Flores has experienced limitations both physically and mentally that forced her to make changes, adjust her training, and grow as a person and an athlete.
In today’s episode, Flores describes different injuries and setbacks she’s experienced throughout her athletic career, both physically and mentally. She opens up about the work she’s done to trust herself and the process, finding her identity outside of being an athlete, and adapting her training to fit her daily needs.
Flores dives into listening to your body and the importance of scaling workouts as needed to create longevity in CrossFit as a sport and a lifestyle.
Throughout the episode, Flores also talks about balancing her career as an athlete and her husband Randy’s career as a strength and conditioning coach for the Los Angeles Lakers, dealing with insecurities, and competing at the Rogue Invitational.
Tune in to hear more of Flores’ story.