Are you a Hobbyist or an Athlete?
Are you training with purpose—or just working out? In this post, Coach Ted Dreaver breaks down the difference between hobbyists and true athletes. Whether you’re chasing performance goals or just trying to avoid stagnation, this piece challenges you to stay consistent, stop cherry-picking workouts, and trust the program. The takeaway? Mastery isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing it right.
I Shape My Life
What if you stopped blaming outside forces and took full responsibility for your life—every part of it? In this unapologetic, motivating piece, Paul Winter challenges you to pick up the hammer of your willpower and start forging the version of yourself you actually want to be. Your life is yours to shape. So the real question is: what are you waiting for?
Fire In the Forge
At Iron Legion, it’s not about your background, your schedule, or your mood—it’s about showing up and bringing the fire. In this unapologetic and motivating reflection, Paul Winter reminds us that training is more than reps and technique—it’s about energy, community, and commitment. The Forge only works when every member fuels it. So drop the excuses, ditch the drag, and bring the heat.
A Good Loser
Thinking about competing in Jiu Jitsu? Paul Winter challenges the popular “win or learn” mindset and pushes for a more driven, competitive approach. Drawing from Vince Lombardi and Eddie Bravo, he reminds us that stepping on the mat is about more than personal growth—it’s about representing your coach, your school, and your mindset. Don’t settle for just showing up. Learn—but fight to win.
My Favorite Postpartum Moves for Every Stage
Postpartum isn’t just a season—it’s a transformation. In this guide, Coach Isabelle Reynolds shares her personal journey and expert insights on returning to movement after childbirth. From breathwork in the early days to rebuilding strength months later, she offers practical advice, encouragement, and movement progressions rooted in BirthFit and strength training. Whether you’re newly postpartum or months in, this piece reminds you that you’re not alone—and that your strongest self is still ahead.
The Riddle of Steel
In a world full of uncertainty, media noise, and chaos, Paul Winter reminds us of one simple truth: you can trust the steel. Drawing inspiration from Conan the Barbarian and the “riddle of steel,” he reflects on the timeless value of physical strength and discipline. Training is more than fitness—it’s clarity, control, and something real to hold onto when everything else feels fake. Learn the discipline. Stay on the steel.
Garbage In, Garbage Out
“Garbage in, garbage out.” That phrase stuck with Paul Winter since childhood—and it applies just as much in the gym as it does in life. Whether you’re lifting weights or rolling on the mats, what you bring into your training session determines what you’ll get out of it. Distractions, lazy effort, and bad habits lead to low returns. But focus, intention, and intensity? That’s how growth happens. From mindset to movement to recovery, your investment matters. Don’t waste your reps—train like it’s costing you. Because it is.
Strength…For What?
Strength for strength’s sake is only part of the story. In this post, Coach Paul dives into what it means to pursue physical power with purpose—and how true human evolution connects strength, combat, and tactical skills into a unified, deadly capable whole.
Why The Crossfit Open Is Worth Doing
The CrossFit Open isn’t just for the elite—it’s for anyone ready to show up, test their progress, and have a blast doing it. In this post, Iron Legion Head Coach Kaitie Neratka breaks down what the Open is, why it matters, and how anyone—from first-timers to long-time members—can get involved, level up, and be part of something bigger than themselves. Teams, Friday Night Lights, and major gym energy await. Let’s go!
‘The Forge’
At Iron Legion, we didn’t design a logo—we forged a symbol. Our “Forge” bindrune is more than branding; it’s a visual representation of the strength, unity, and purpose we pursue together. Rooted in ancient Norse tradition, each part of the symbol tells the story of our community: individual potential, collective support, and an unwavering climb toward greatness. This is not just where we train. This is where legends are built.
