Hamilton Member of the Month for January 2026 Coach Erik Jensen
Tell us about yourself
Born and raised in Hamilton. I have an amazing partner who I have lived with for the better part of the last 10 years, and who has joined me on this CrossFit journey. We have two adorable cats named after Icelandic CrossFit games legends Annie (Thorisdottir) and Katrin (Davidsdottir). By day, I work for a local Engineering Consultant, mainly as a project manager..
What got you into CrossFit?
CrossFit Games documentaries. Pre-pandemic I watched “Fittest on Earth: A Decade of Fitness” and I thought “These people are crazy… and crazy fit.” I was intimidated, and thought “I could never do that”. Fast forward through a couple more CrossFit documentaries and a little pandemic fitness loss... I was still feeling intimidated but decided to try CrossFit and found Alchemy. The coaches were great and really made it all less intimidating. I started with a 20 class pass and went monthly as soon as it was done. Once I found that sweet 5am class slot I was locked in, there was no turning back.
What motivated you to want to become a coach at Alchemy?
I have long had an interest in helping people improve their fitness, I love to share training knowledge and help people achieve their goals. I did my CrossFit L1 in January of 2023, but there was no opportunity for me to shadow at that time - I’m not sure I was ready then anyway. I was surprised when Duncan approached me last March during the 5am class to see if I was interested in coaching, I didn’t say no, and after a couple hours of reflection I enthusiastically said YES! (at least that’s how I remember it). I’m happy and fortunate to have joined this team of coaches who are all so knowledgeable and care so much about the members.
What has been your proudest coaching moment at Alchemy?
Anytime a member takes time outside of the workout to thank me for a cue, or some piece of advice I gave, that helped them to feel better or more confident in the movement, that’s pretty special and rewarding.
What are your CrossFit goals for the future?
Right now I am pretty focused on improving my gymnastics. I would love to unlock muscle-ups before I turn 50 in October of 2026.
What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in yourself since starting CrossFit?
I am definitely stronger than when I started and have a love for the assault bike - which I initially feared.
When you’re not at the gym, what’s your favourite thing to do?
When I have (or make) time, I like to dabble in music. Playing various instruments (mostly guitar), and recently got back to actually learning how to play piano. In addition, you can expect to find me and my partner hitting up Tracies Place or Deja Vu for a fun night of Karaoke.
What’s your favourite local Hamilton food spot?
There’s a few places that end up on a rotation, but for now l’ll say Nonno’s (vegan sandwiches at the farmers market) their “Chickun Parmigano” is amazing!