South Loop Strength & Conditioning

Help us celebrate our December member of the month, Shalin!

From alternative hype tracks to well-earned pizza nights after a 3–4 day training week, he embodies what we love most about this community: work hard, celebrate the wins, and trust that little gains add up in a big way.

What brought you to SLSC originally?
I wanted to join a true CrossFit gym with dedicated coaches and expertise
What’s your favorite movement or workout—and your least favorite?
Most barbell compound movements are some of my favorites. I also enjoy the gymnastic movements. Least favorite the bike/run
Proudest gym moment so far?
Getting single and multiple Bar Muscle Ups!
What’s your go-to hype song or workout playlist vibe?
Alternative.
Favorite post-workout meal or treat?
Varies - if healthy then likely Greek yogurt. If I've made it to the gym 3-4 over the week then definitely pizza
Any advice for someone just getting started at SLSC?
Little gains go a long way and technique matters more than the weight (this is easier said than done but it's paid strong dividends).

Congratulations to our November member of the month, Jessica! Jessica has been a member of SLSC for over 3 years - you can find her in both CrossFit and Weightlifting classes. We're looking forward to seeing her compete in WL on the platform very soon! Good luck!

What brought you to SLSC originally?

I was looking for a community where I'd feel comfortable and challenged.  I'm thankful I found it at SLSC

What’s your favorite movement or workout—and your least favorite?

My favorites are handstand push-ups, dumbbell sn**ches, and overhead press/jerk.  My least favorites are thrusters, bike, and wall walks.

Proudest gym moment so far?

I don't have a single moment, but so have memories of many workouts when I pushed myself and RX'd a workout. Although this isn't something I've done yet - I've committed to doing at least 1 olympic lifting competition for the psychological challenge.

What’s something surprising people might not know about you?

I started exercising consistently at age 38 after over a decade of minimal exercise.

Favorite post-workout meal or treat?

yerba mate tea all day long

When you're not training, what are you up to?

Honestly, working too much.  Also, I enjoy yoga, meditation, and spending time with family and friends.

Any advice for someone just getting started at SLSC?

Believe in yourself and you will be surprised what you can accomplish!

Halloween is coming up. Do you have your consume?

Outstanding performance for SLSC's last weekend at the 2025 Mid-American Championship!

Laura returned to the platform to hit an impressive 37kg sn**ch, then a personal record-breaking 63kg clean & jerk, for a total of 100kg! Bravo Laura! Way to represent! 

Big thanks to the support squad, including , Coach , Coach , and, of course, Laura's biggest little fan (see pic 1). 

Special thanks also to our hosts , Coach , and for keeping the event alive for lifters across the Midwest to enjoy, year over year. 


**ch