Luke Kayyem
Owner/Coach of CrossFit Scottsdale
Biography
Luke Kayyem was born in Los Angeles, raised in Palm Springs and grew up in Hawaii. By spending every minute outside as a child, sports, athletics and fitness were not only a passion but quickly became a lifestyle. Luke attended the same prep school (Punahou in Oahu) as our President Barack Obama and continued his education in athletics playing football in San Diego and Baseball in Sacramento. Luke married his high school sweet heart Najla and has two beautiful children, Kanon and Camille. After moving to Scottsdale in October of 2007 Luke began his manifest destiny and started building his dream of owning and operating one of Arizona’s fastest growing School’s of Elite Fitness— CrossFit Scottsdale. His success in the fitness industry as a Fitness Professional began 14 years ago.
When Luke first started in the industry he was 19 years old and bodybuilding was “all the rage”. Luke went from running a 45,000 sq.ft. “globo gym” to opening his own 150 sq.ft personal training studio. “I began to change my programming and I noticed greater client results when I was forced to incorporate functional movements, due to the size of my facility,” said Coach Kayyem. Squatting, jumping, pushing, and pulling became the focal point of his workouts. This training method eventually became known and recognized globally as “CrossFit.” CrossFit teaches you how to use your body as a machine. Incorporating these principals in his team training has allowed Luke to coach 100 students in a day and even train seniors alongside soldiers. Luke is a competitive athlete and world renowned Coach.
Luke is a board member of Arizona Baseball Charities, he prides himself on his community service and has been able to integrate community based events and non-profit support into the CrossFit Scottsdale network.
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Certifications
- CrossFit Level I Certified
- CrossFit Kids Certified
- CrossFit Gymnastics Certified
- CrossFit Joint Mobility & Recovery Certified
- SealFit Level I
- CrossFit Olympic Lifting Certified
- USAW Certified
- OPT CCP Life Coaching
- OPT CCP Program Design
- OPT CCP Nutrition
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Competitive Edge
- 2012 Marine Corps Challenge – 1st Place
- 2012 Reebok CrossFit Games Regional Team Competitor
- 2012 Garage Games – 2nd Place
- 2011 Reebok CrossFit Games Southwest Regional Qualifier
- 2011 Friday Night Lights, CrossFit Open Qualifier – 1st place
- 2011 Winter Open – 4th Place
- 2011 The Courage Games – 4th Place
- 2011 Southwest Throwdown – 11th Place
- 2011 Mad Mud Run, 2 man Co-ed Team – 1st Place
- 2010 CrossFit Games Regional Team Competitor
- 2010 Mad Mud Run, 2 man Co-ed Team – 1st Place
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Najla Kayyem
Owner/Coach/Marketing/PR of CrossFit Scottsdale
Biography
CrossFit creates a sport out of exercise and it gets you in better shape quicker than any other exercise regime out there. Everyone knows that finding time for fitness isn’t always easy but it needs to be a priority. It was right after my second child that I decided to really hit it hard with my CrossFit training. 7 months after I really got serious about training, I had dropped 25 pounds, changed my eating habits and got in the best shape of my life at 30. It was fascinating to me that I was getting faster, leaner and stronger doing less traditional weight training and spending less time in the gym (actually doing physical exercise vs. reading US Weekly on the elliptical.
I grew up in Palm Springs, California, played competitive Varsity sports in High School and stayed active through my college years at San Diego State University where I graduated in 2001 with a BA in Communications. I immediately went to work for a development firm to build, manage, market and operate mixed-use retail lifestyle centers and married my life partner and high school sweetheart, Luke. I spend the last 12 years in the Real Estate Development arena as the Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations for various prominent mixed use commercial real estate development companies including Westfield, Caruso Affiliated, Related Companies and Red Development. Currently, I am the Chief Executive Officer for SICFIT, a lifestyle brand and media company that showcases user generated content for the fitness community. Additionally, I consult for CrossFit affiliates nationally helping them get to the next level by achieving their business goals and create lasting marketing and branding platforms and programs that help promote their business, increase student retention, enhance coaching practices and establish them as a leader in their market.
I love the fact that CrossFit is a grass roots fitness revolution and that we are at the fore front of it. I believe that the true beauty of the CrossFit method is that it is scalable, effective and efficient making it the perfect application for any committed individual. Functional movements are essential for independent living thus this program works for everyone regardless of age, ability or strength. CrossFit Scottsdale is a School of Elite Fitness; we offer you the appropriate training, teamwork, nutrition counseling, camaraderie, an outlet for competition, challenges, seminars and overall education to enable you to live a healthier happier lifestyle. At the end of the day, I practice what I preach. I train CrossFit. I teach CrossFit. I am CrossFit. I love my job. I love my life. I love my family and the fact that I can have such a profound, positive effect on changing people’s lives. The highlight of my day (besides coming home to two beautiful kids) is seeing the empowerment that people feel when they are able to accomplish their athletic, fitness, and health goals.
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Certifications
- Level 1 CrossFit Certified
- CrossFit Gymnastics Certified
- CrossFit Olympic Lifting Certified
- CrossFit Endurance Certified
- USA Weightlifting Level 1
- Sports Performance
- Nutrition Educator
- OPT Science of Nutrition
- OPT CCP Life Coaching
- OPT CCP Program Design
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Ashley Richards
Coach
Biography
My name is Ashley Richards, and I am proud to call myself a CrossFitter. It’s a lifestyle I not only enjoy, but it allows me to be a stronger, more confident individual inside and out. I can honestly say that I am in the best shape of my life! 2 years ago or so ago, I was your typical American. Eating out often, social drinking too much, and never making time to get to the globo gym and when I did it was for a simple 30 minute cardio session on the elliptical. I dreaded the gym, and so called “fitness” and I hated healthy eating, it just was not part of my lifestyle. At the same time, I was not happy with my energy level, what my body looked like, and always seemed to lack that drive I once had. It was a battle to get up in the morning and I never seemed to get enough sleep. Does that sound like someone you know? Maybe even you? I lived it, and I know other people do too. It was such a change from the life I once had when I was younger, where I was a long distance runner, along with being on the Volleyball team. Sports and activity was always part of my life while in school, but that quickly changed as I slowly eased out of school and into reality at a desk job. Tell me that isn’t a typical Americans story these days.
I have known Luke and Najla for over 3 years now, and during that time I had tried CrossFit a few times with them at their box. Every time I left so sore I would cry, and never want to go back. I even participated in 9/11 in 2009 and could barely walk to my car after I was done. I thought I was “scared” of Luke and CrossFit, but overall I found out I was more scared of myself. In February of 2010, I finally moved to Scottsdale from Phoenix, and decided I was going to do something about my lack of energy and get back into fitness in which I once loved. I took the plunge and became a member that month, and was taking one class a week, just something to get me started. Shortly after that increased to two times a week and before you know it, I was an unlimited member. I was eating, sleeping, and breathing CrossFit. In April of 2009, I finally decided that CrossFit Scottsdale was not only my destination for becoming a healthier person, but I learned that it was a passion and another family on its own. It was something I wanted to pursue and learn more about on a coaching level to help change the lives of other “typical Americans” in which I once was. So in October 2010, I completed the Level I Training Certification and officially became a Coach.
I currently coach the beginner and all level classes at CrossFit Scottsdale, and love working with those “typical” Americans and helping them hit their fitness and life goals. Driving and coaching students to be the best they can, and to help them do more than they can ever imagine is the best feeling in the world.
Let’s make CrossFit an epidemic and take people out of their cubicle office setting back into an active lifestyle where daily tasks will be more enjoyable, and showing how powerful anyone can be with CrossFit Scottsdale.
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Certifications
- CrossFit Level I Certified
- CrossFit Kids Certified
- OPT Science of Nutrition
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Tyler “Sensei” Warren
Coach
Biography
I never was a naturally athletic person. I played little league baseball as a kid and was a “benchwarmer” most of the time. As a teenager, I was overweight and actually was in a bowling league for sometime (had my own ball and everything). My freshman year of high school I wrestled but it was short lived due to an ankle injury in my first match. My senior year of high school a friend of mine told me about a martial arts school he recently began to attend and invited me down to try it out. I was hooked after my first class and my martial arts career took me down a path I never thought I would be on.
I am currently the operations manager at the Scottsdale Martial Arts Center and assistant head instructor. I study traditional Japanese and Okinawa martial arts as well as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Greco Roman Wrestling, and Kali. I’ve have competed all over the United States and in Japan, Canada, and China. I came across CrossFit Scottsdale shortly after my return from Japan where I placed 5th in my weight category. I was in rut and looking for something different. After my baseline with Coach Luke, I was greatly humbled and signed up immediately. I am stronger, leaner, and faster then I never was and continue to push my body’s limitations under Luke’s tutelage. I am honored to be apart of this excellent coaching staff and will continue to “lead by example.” OSU!
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Certifications
- CrossFit Level I Certified
- 2nd Degree in Black Belt in Okinawa Karate
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Erin Wellendorf
Coach/CrossFit Kids Coach
Biography
While I’m not a born athlete, I’ve been pretty active for most of my life. My husband Mike and I love to go hiking, kayaking, running and most anything in the outdoors. Running had been my go-to exercise but really it wasn’t a thing I loved to do. When I first learned about CrossFit from a family member I thought “No way normal people do this!” Then in 2009 I walked in to CrossFit Scottsdale. After my initial baseline workout I still was second guessing my ability to do it, but I figured I ran two marathons; I’ve lifted weights before; I can at least not make a fool of myself. A year and a half later I can’t promise I’ve never made a fool of myself, but I can safely say I’ve improved by leaps and bounds. I’m 20 pounds lighter and can actually complete “Fran”. CrossFit has really given me the tools and skills to be a better athlete and just generally better at life. As a coach I want to pass those tools and skills on to others.
I first became involved in the coaching side of things by helping Tiffany with the Crossfit Kids program. I love coaching the kids! Giving the them the successes in the gym not only develops the love of exercise early but it also builds their confidence for the other things that they do. And based on my personal experience, the same is true for the adults too. I want kids and adults to know the importance of exercise and good nutrition- born athlete or not. CrossFit is hard, but that is what makes accomplishing that kipping pull up or improved WOD time that much better. I love being a part of this community of supportive students and coaches!
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Certifications
- Level I CrossFit Certified
- CrossFit Kids Certified
- OPT Science of Nutrition
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Hallie Flood
Coach
Biography
I came to CrossFit Scottsdale at the beginning of 2010 when I moved back to Scottsdale from Minot, North Dakota. My husband was going to be stationed in South Korea for a year through the Air Force and I could not go with him so I decided to move me and my son back in with my family. In the first few years of marriage I had managed to put on a significant amount of weight that left me feeling miserable. I called CrossFit Scottsdale and set up my introductory session with Coach Luke Kayyem. It was hard, it took me a long time, and I threw up, and after a day of “thinking about it” I signed up. I told Luke that I wanted to “bring sexy back” for my husband and I was determined.
I started at 1x a week, then increased to unlimited in about 30 days. In my first 10 months at CrossFit Scottsdale I had lost 80lbs! I remained dedicated and showed up and didn’t quit.
Being a varsity volleyball player in high school and having parents who owned a personal training studio during my college years, it felt so good to get my fitness and competitive edge back.
When my husband came home and saw me for the first time, his jaw dropped and I knew I had done it…I brought sexy back!
Since then I became a CrossFit Level 1 Certified Coach and have had the amazing opportunity to be apart of the success of the students here.
- Certifications
- CrossFit Level 1 Certified
- OPT Science of Nutrition
- Competitive Edge
- 3rd Place in Barbells for Boobs 2011
| CONTACT HALLIE GYM 480.922.3253 14885 N. 83rd PLACE STE. 102 // Scottsdale, AZ 85260 Hallie@CrossFitScottsdale.com // www.CrossFitScottsdale.com |
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Chris Cannon
Coach
Biography
Growing up as an athlete I was always involved in some sort of activity whether it was organized group sports or just snowboarding with family and friends. Having played baseball, football, soccer, basketball and wresting all throughout my life staying in shape was never an issue until I hit a lull in my late 20’s and early 30’s. Going to the “gym” and doing chest on Mondays and back and bi’s on Tuesdays just got mundane and boring. Around February of 2011 I was introduced to Crossfit through a good friend of mine and I have been addicted ever since.
At first it was, “Wow these WOD’s are really working me out and I love the Oly lifting too!” Now, having been a part of CFS for a little over a year I started noticing that not only do I like to participate but emersing myself in the “lifestyle” is something I really wanted to do as well. Coaching is a way for me to help those who come into our affiliate get comfortable in understanding and executing the movements that we perform on a daily basis. I have realized that not everyone has been exposed to Olympic lifting movements as I was in high school and college and I really enjoy helping them achieve those goals in a safe nuturing environment. My goal as a CFS coach is to assist any athlete from beginner to advanced by helping them perform any crossfit movement safely, effectively and efficiently to improve times, weights and the personal goals of that athlete. Helping people get better is what we do and as I get better I love seeing those around me being lifted up too!!!
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Certifications
- Level I CrossFit Certified
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Jeff Brennan
Coach
Biography
I began Crossfit in October of 2009 in preparation for an upcoming SWAT process, which included an incredibly difficult obstacle course. I knew going to Golds Gym 6 days a week and lifting wasnt going to cut it. You have to be STRONG when you are TIRED, and thats what I love about Crossfit.
I’m not an athletically gifted person…but I work harder than anyone else, and I hate to lose. That element alone has made me successful in Crossfit competitions…. I enjoy working with and coaching ‘competitors’ and ‘advanced’ athletes to get them where they want to be. I coach the advanced “Strength” class on Friday afternoon. In my free time I enjoy racing Motocross, and dominating Coach Luke in every WOD we do.
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Certifications
- CrossFit Level I Certified
- CrossFit Olympic Weightlifting Certified
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Competitive Edge
- 2011 Reebok CrossFit Games Regional Qualifier – 20th Place (264th in the world)
- 2010 CrossFit Games Regional Qualifier – 49th Place
- Crossfit Olympic weight lifting certified (Coach Mike Burgener)
Tony Swann
Coach
Biography
I am an Arizona native, born and raised in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. I come from a boating family so I have grown up waterskiing and wakeboarding. I enjoy anything on the water! I played soccer in high school and also for a small private university for a couple years before injuring my foot. I learned about CrossFit while going through training in the Marine Corps. Marines love their brutal workouts and know how to push their limits so I became addicted to the sport. But it was not until I walked in CrossFit Scottsdale that I strictly trained CrossFit and took it seriously. I was amazed by how rapidly it created a stronger well balanced body but I was more impressed with the close knit community it offered. I feel as though I am part of a family every time I walk into CrossFit Scottsdale and see everyone.
I now spend most of my free time backpacking, camping, traveling, and coaching. I love any outdoor adventure so don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with me next time you see me.
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Certifications
- CrossFit Level I Certified
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| CONTACT TONY GYM 480.922.3253 // CELL 602.418.1258 14885 N. 83rd PLACE STE. 102 // Scottsdale, AZ 85260 tony@sicfit.com // www.CrossFitScottsdale.com |
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Danny Nichols
Coach
Biography
My name is Danny Nichols and I have been an athlete for most of my life. It all started when I was in college at Minnesota State where I was a Full Back. This is where I began lifting weights and focusing on my nutrition and physical performance. After winning the special teams MVP award in 2005, I knew that fitness and sports was going to be a big part of my life. Since then, I have tried a variety of different sports, including body building as well as going as far as trying out for the National Football League, but yet these sports and fitness were not hitting my goals and dreams of where I wanted to be.
After traveling around the states, I found myself back in my home town of San Rafael, California. Upon returning, I began Olympic Weightlifting again, where it all began back in the college days. Knowing my competitive past and love for lifting, a friend of mine introduced me to CrossFit. I will never forget my first workout at TJ’s gym in California. I remember we did quite a few cleans, and although I was strong, the quantity wore me out and I remember I did not do as well as I thought I would, and from there it intrigued me more to come back and get stronger. As I began to integrate CrossFit into my life, I noticed the CrossFit Games on the television, from there; I was even more excited about CrossFit, and was asked to compete on a team for TJ’s gym in California. In the team competition of the 2011 Northern California CrossFit Games Regional, I set a world
Record for the thruster at 325 pounds. This performance helped lead my team, TJs Gym to a first place finish in the competition and gave us the opportunity to compete at the 2011 Reebok CrossFit Games. We finished 11th in the world of the thousands of teams that started the qualifying process. In the 2012 Reebok CrossFit Games, we finished 6th in the world, largely due to my performance in several of the events.
Until recently, I was focused on training and competing at the team level. However, based on my performance in the last year, I have the potential to compete at the individual level and be one of the best in the world. A few months ago, I was invited to move to Scottsdale, Arizona to train full-time under the guidance of James FitzGerald (OPT), a world-renowned strength and conditioning coach and the Champion of the first ever CrossFit Games. I am currently training to compete in the CrossFit Games World-Wide Open in the hopes of qualifying for the Southwest CrossFit Regionals and 2013 Reebok CrossFit Games as an individual competitor.
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Certifications
- CrossFit Level I Certified
- CrossFit Olympic Lifting Certified
- USAW Certified
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Competitive Edge
- 2012 OPTathlon- 3rd Place
- 2012 SICest of the Southwest- 7th Place
- 2012 Honey Badger Invitational- 1st Place (105KG+ Weight Class)
- 2012 Reebok CrossFit Games- 6th Place on Team
- 2011 CrossFit Games-11th Place on Team
Joe Atkielski 
Coach
Biography
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Certifications
- CrossFit Level I Certified
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Competitive Edge
- 2012 Furious Five Competitor
Nicole James 
Yoga Coach
Biography
My name is Nicole James and I recently moved to Arizona in February 2013 because my husband got a job out here. I grew up in Woodland, California (Northern California near Sacramento) and went to college in Southern California. I have been an athlete my whole life and love sports. I started soccer when I was 5 and played that all through High School. I played volleyball and basketball starting in elementary and played those in High School as well as college. I went to Azusa Pacific my freshman year of college and played volleyball there and transferred to University of La Verne where I played volleyball and basketball. Since I have always been involved in sports I enjoy working out and being active. It wasn’t until University of La Verne that I became serious about lifting and strength training. My strength and conditioning coach Matt Durant had a huge impact on my love for Olympic lifting and strength training. I interned with him and shadowed him throughout my career there and learned a lot from him and consider him a major Mentor in my life.
After college I got married and my husband and I lived in Southern California. Right out of college I was a personal trainer at a studio gym, after personal training I found Athletic Republic and I trained athletes there and worked with sensory vision training. I love helping people with fitness and helping them reach their goals. Through Athletic Republic I found Yoga J I fell in love with it and I went through Teacher Training at Addicted to Yoga and I became an instructor. I stopped personal training and Athletic Republic and I was full time at my yoga studio working front desk and instructing.
In February 2013 my husband got a job out here and so we put in our two weeks and moved. I did not have a job lined up when we got out here so I was job searching and knew I needed to find a place to work out. I had done CrossFit on my own off CrossFit.com for a while and when I trained on my own I would do high intensity interval training. I tried CrossFit in November 2012 at CrossFit San Dimas and I loved it. When we moved I knew I had to find a CrossFit in Scottsdale. I contacted Najla about teaching yoga at CrossFit and she was all about it and had me come in and see how I taught. Once I saw the environment at CrossFit Scottsdale I felt right at home. I started off coming a couple times a week and I got hooked very quickly and now I make it a priority. I love the atmosphere and the community at CrossFit Scottsdale.
I teach yoga at CrossFit Scottsdale on Tuesday at 7:00PM and Wednesday at 9:30AM. Combining CrossFit and Yoga is a passion of mine that is continuing to grow. They are opposing styles of life but integrating them is a perfect balance. I call them my Ying and Yang.
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Certifications
- 200 Hour Yoga Alliance
