Brooke Wells' journey to becoming one of CrossFit's most celebrated athletes began in her hometown of Springfield, Missouri.
Growing up in the Midwest, Brooke was surrounded by a supportive family who encouraged her active lifestyle.
From a young age, she displayed a natural talent for athletics, excelling in track and gymnastics.
These early sports not only fueled her competitive spirit but also laid the foundation for her explosive power, coordination and discipline - skills that would later set her apart in CrossFit.
As a high school athlete, Brooke specialised in sprinting events, honing her speed and endurance on the track.
At the same time, gymnastics helped her develop balance, flexibility and body awareness.
This combination of power and precision would prove invaluable when she eventually transitioned to CrossFit.
However, at the time, Brooke had no idea that her athletic journey was leading her toward a sport that would define her career.
Her first encounter with CrossFit came during her freshman year at the University of Missouri, where she was studying business.
Like many newcomers to the sport, Brooke stumbled into a CrossFit gym out of curiosity.
Initially, she was drawn to the intensity and variety of the workouts.
What started as a fun way to stay fit quickly evolved into a passion when Brooke realised she had a unique aptitude for the sport.
Under the guidance of her coach, Brooke began competing in local CrossFit events.
It didn't take long for her natural abilities to shine through.
Her exceptional strength, developed through years of sprinting and gymnastics, gave her a competitive edge in workouts involving Olympic lifts and high-intensity circuits.
Just as importantly, Brooke demonstrated an unmatched work ethic and hunger to improve - qualities that would become hallmarks of her career.
In 2014, Brooke made her competitive debut at the CrossFit Central Regional, where she gained valuable experience and began to make a name for herself.
The following year, at just 19 years old, she would shock the CrossFit world by winning the Central Regional and earning a spot at the CrossFit Games.
Brooke's journey from small-town Missouri to the global stage of CrossFit is a testament to her drive, resilience and ability to seize opportunities.
Her early years as a track and gymnastics athlete gave her the tools to succeed, but it was her relentless dedication to hard work that truly set her apart.
From her first steps into a CrossFit gym to becoming a household name in the sport, Brooke's origin story is a powerful reminder of how far talent, determination and a fearless mindset can take you.
In 2015, Brooke Wells stepped into the spotlight with a performance that took the CrossFit world by storm.
At just 19 years old, Brooke competed in the Central Regional - a fierce battleground where seasoned athletes vied for a coveted spot at the CrossFit Games.
Against all odds, Brooke not only held her own but dominated the competition, securing first place.
This remarkable victory instantly established her as one of the sport's brightest rising stars.
Brooke's breakout performance was a blend of raw talent and unshakable composure under pressure.
Her impressive lifts and explosive power in events like heavy cleans and snatches highlighted her natural strength, while her background in track and gymnastics shone through in agility-based workouts.
Despite being one of the youngest competitors, Brooke demonstrated a maturity and poise that belied her age, earning the respect of fans and fellow athletes alike.
Her Central Regional win didn't just make headlines - it also earned her a ticket to the 2015 CrossFit Games, the ultimate proving ground for the sport's elite.
Competing against some of the biggest names in CrossFit, Brooke faced a steep learning curve.
The Games tested every aspect of her fitness, from endurance to strategy and pushed her limits in ways she had never experienced.
Even so, Brooke held her own, finishing an impressive 16th overall in her debut.
While she didn't make the podium, her performance was a clear signal that she had the potential to be a major contender in the years to come.
She showcased her strengths - like her proficiency with a barbell - and gained invaluable experience in areas where she had room to grow, such as pacing and workout transitions.
Yet, competing as a teenager in a sport dominated by veterans wasn't without its challenges.
Brooke often found herself up against athletes with years of experience and well-rounded skillsets, which exposed the gaps in her own training.
But instead of being discouraged, she used the experience as fuel to drive her forward.
Her 2015 season was a whirlwind of milestones, from her stunning Regional victory to her Games debut.
It was a pivotal year that introduced the CrossFit community to Brooke Wells' fearless spirit and undeniable potential.
At just 19, Brooke wasn't just competing - she was making waves, proving that age and experience are no match for raw talent, hard work and an unrelenting determination to succeed.
Brooke's breakout season was the first chapter in a career that would continue to captivate fans and inspire the next generation of athletes.
It was a year that set the stage for the incredible journey ahead, showcasing the spark of greatness that would come to define her career.
By 2016, Brooke Wells had firmly established herself as a rising star in the CrossFit world.
Coming off the momentum of her impressive 2015 debut, Brooke entered her second season with a renewed sense of purpose and an eagerness to prove she belonged among the sport's elite.
Her hard work and dedication paid off in spectacular fashion, as she delivered a career-defining performance at the CrossFit Games, finishing 6th overall.
The 2016 CrossFit Games were a showcase of Brooke's immense potential.
Her raw strength stood out, with heavy barbell events playing to her natural abilities.
She excelled in workouts like the Squat Clean Pyramid, where she powered through increasingly heavy lifts with a composure and explosiveness that left fans in awe.
Events like these highlighted the foundation she had built through years of track and strength training, but it wasn't just her power that impressed - it was her resilience.
Brooke entered the 2016 season with a clear focus on becoming a more well-rounded athlete.
She knew that excelling in strength-based events alone wasn't enough to secure a top finish at the Games.
To that end, she dedicated herself to improving her gymnastics skills and building her aerobic capacity - two areas where she had struggled the previous year.
This commitment to addressing weaknesses paid off, as Brooke delivered balanced performances across a variety of events, from bodyweight workouts to long endurance grinds.
What made 2016 a breakthrough year wasn't just Brooke's physical performance but also her mental toughness.
The Games are a grueling test of not only fitness but also strategy and adaptability.
Brooke approached each event with a calm and confident mindset, learning to trust her training and execute under pressure.
This maturity on the competition floor was a significant leap from her 2015 season, where inexperience sometimes held her back.
Her 6th-place finish wasn't just a number - it was a statement.
Brooke had proven that she wasn't just a young athlete with potential; she was a legitimate contender on the sport's biggest stage.
Her success also fueled her drive to continue improving, knowing that she had the capability to climb even higher in the years to come.
The 2016 season marked a turning point for Brooke Wells.
It was the year she truly began to establish herself as one of CrossFit's most promising athletes, capable of competing with - and beating - the best in the world.
Her ascent to the top ranks of the sport was a testament to her relentless work ethic, her commitment to growth and her ability to learn from every experience.
For Brooke, 2016 wasn't just about proving her place in CrossFit; it was about laying the foundation for a career built on resilience, adaptability and an unyielding desire to be the best version of herself.
For Brooke Wells, success in CrossFit has never been a straight path.
Her career has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks that tested her resilience and forced her to dig deep to overcome adversity.
These challenges have played a pivotal role in shaping Brooke into the athlete and role model she is today.
One of the first significant challenges came during the 2017 CrossFit Games.
It was her third appearance at the Games and expectations were high after her impressive 6th-place finish the previous year.
However, Brooke struggled to meet her own standards.
Mentally, the weight of competition began to take a toll.
The pressure to perform at an elite level, coupled with the unpredictability of the events, exposed cracks in her confidence.
It was a humbling experience and Brooke walked away from the season determined to strengthen not just her body, but her mindset as well.
But perhaps her greatest test came in 2021, during the one-rep max snatch event at the CrossFit Games.
As Brooke attempted the lift, disaster struck - she suffered a severe elbow injury.
The shocking moment left her in excruciating pain and immediately ended her competition season.
The injury was not only physically devastating but also emotionally crushing for an athlete known for her incredible strength.
The road to recovery was long and grueling.
Brooke underwent surgery to repair her damaged elbow, followed by months of physical therapy and rehabilitation.
For someone used to pushing her limits in the gym, the slow and often frustrating process of regaining mobility and strength required an entirely new kind of discipline.
Yet, Brooke approached her recovery with the same determination she brought to her training.
Instead of dwelling on what she had lost, Brooke focused on what she could control.
She worked tirelessly with her medical team and coaches to rebuild her body and more importantly, her mindset.
During this time, she leaned on her support system, including family, friends and the CrossFit community, who rallied around her and reminded her of her incredible resilience.
When Brooke made her return to competition, it wasn't just a comeback - it was a statement of strength.
Her ability to rise from such a significant setback inspired countless fans and reinforced the idea that true strength isn't just about lifting weights; it's about the courage to keep going when the odds are against you.
Brooke's journey through adversity is a testament to her character and determination.
The challenges she's faced have not only made her a better athlete but also a more grounded and inspiring individual.
She has shown that setbacks are not the end - they're opportunities to grow, rebuild and come back stronger.
For Brooke, every obstacle is a lesson in resilience and every comeback is a reminder of the power of perseverance.
It's these moments that have defined her career and made her a role model for athletes everywhere.
Brooke Wells' success in CrossFit is no accident - it's the result of a carefully crafted training philosophy rooted in consistency, hard work and an unyielding commitment to improvement.
For Brooke, training isn't just about showing up; it's about embracing the process, day in and day out and leaving no stone unturned in her pursuit of excellence.
Her daily routine is a testament to her dedication.
Brooke's training schedule typically includes three intense sessions, each with a specific focus.
Mornings are reserved for strength work, where she hones her Olympic lifting technique and builds explosive power through movements like snatches, cleans and squats.
This focus on heavy lifting allows Brooke to maintain her edge as one of the sport's strongest competitors.
The afternoon sessions shift to gymnastics and conditioning, areas Brooke has worked hard to improve over the years.
She tackles bodyweight movements like pull-ups, handstand walks and muscle-ups with the same determination she applies to lifting a barbell.
Paired with aerobic training, these sessions help her build the endurance and agility needed to excel in long, grueling workouts.
Evenings are dedicated to active recovery.
Whether it's swimming laps, yoga or mobility work, Brooke prioritises activities that promote recovery and prevent injuries.
This balanced approach allows her to sustain a high level of training while keeping her body healthy and prepared for competition.
One of the cornerstones of Brooke's philosophy is her focus on addressing weaknesses.
Instead of avoiding areas where she struggles, she actively seeks them out, knowing that true improvement comes from confronting discomfort.
This mindset has led to significant growth in her gymnastics skills and her ability to pace herself in high-intensity workouts, two areas that once held her back.
But Brooke's approach to training goes beyond the physical.
She emphasises the mental side of preparation, using visualisation and mindfulness techniques to stay focused and composed under pressure.
For Brooke, training is as much about building confidence and mental toughness as it is about physical fitness.
Her philosophy also includes listening to her body and knowing when to rest.
As a seasoned athlete, Brooke understands the importance of recovery and how it contributes to long-term performance.
She views rest days not as setbacks but as opportunities to recharge and come back stronger.
At the heart of Brooke's training philosophy is the belief that success isn't about shortcuts or quick fixes - it's about putting in the work every single day.
Whether she's lifting heavy, grinding through a tough metcon or stretching out during a recovery session, Brooke approaches every aspect of her training with purpose and intensity.
Brooke Wells' journey is a testament to the power of mastering the process.
By embracing every challenge and committing fully to her craft, she has built a foundation of strength, resilience and excellence that continues to set her apart as one of CrossFit's most inspiring athletes.
For Brooke Wells, nutrition is not just a tool for performance - it's a cornerstone of her success.
Over the years, she has refined her approach to fueling her body, learning how to balance her intake to meet the demands of her intense training schedule.
Brooke's journey with nutrition is a testament to her dedication to self-improvement, both on and off the competition floor.
Early in her CrossFit career, Brooke experimented with the Paleo diet, a popular choice among CrossFit athletes at the time.
This diet emphasises whole, unprocessed foods like lean meats, fruits and vegetables while cutting out grains, dairy and processed sugars.
While it worked initially, Brooke realised that her energy levels and recovery needs required a more customised approach.
As her understanding of nutrition evolved, Brooke transitioned to a macro-based diet.
By tracking her intake of proteins, carbohydrates and fats, she gained better control over her performance and recovery.
This approach allowed her to tailor her meals to her specific needs, ensuring that she had the energy to fuel her workouts, repair muscle tissue and optimise her endurance for long days of training.
Carbohydrates are a critical component of Brooke's diet, providing the fuel her body needs for high-intensity sessions.
Sources like rice, sweet potatoes and oats are staples in her meals, helping her replenish glycogen stores and maintain energy levels.
Protein is equally important, with lean meats, eggs and fish supporting muscle repair and growth.
Healthy fats, such as those from avocado, nuts and olive oil, round out her diet, providing essential nutrients and aiding in recovery.
Timing is another key aspect of Brooke's nutrition strategy.
She plans her meals and snacks around her training schedule, consuming quick-digesting carbs before workouts for energy and protein-rich meals afterward to kickstart recovery.
This intentional approach ensures that her body is always primed for performance and properly fueled for the next session.
Brooke also emphasises hydration and supplementation as part of her routine.
She drinks plenty of water throughout the day, often adding electrolytes to replace what's lost during intense training.
Supplements like whey protein, omega-3s and amino acids help her meet her nutritional needs and support recovery when whole foods aren't enough.
What sets Brooke apart is her ability to strike a balance.
While she prioritises clean, performance-focused eating, she isn't afraid to indulge occasionally.
She believes that enjoying treats in moderation is not only sustainable but also an important part of maintaining a healthy relationship with food.
Brooke's approach to nutrition isn't about perfection - it's about consistency and adaptability.
She listens to her body, makes adjustments as needed and prioritises foods that make her feel strong and energised.
This mindset has allowed her to fuel her demanding training schedule while staying in peak condition year-round.
For Brooke Wells, nutrition is more than just eating - it's a science and a discipline.
By understanding her body's needs and making thoughtful choices, she has built a foundation that supports her success both as an athlete and as an individual committed to long-term health and performance.
In 2023, Brooke Wells embarked on a transformative chapter in her CrossFit career by joining Mat Fraser's HWPO (Hard Work Pays Off) training program.
Known as one of the most successful CrossFit athletes of all time, Fraser's reputation as a five-time CrossFit Games champion and his methodical approach to training made HWPO an exciting and promising choice for Brooke.
This decision was more than just a shift in programming - it represented a commitment to growth, refinement and unlocking her full potential.
For Brooke, joining HWPO came at a pivotal moment in her career.
She was recovering from her 2021 elbow injury and eager to build on her comeback season.
While she had always been a driven and disciplined athlete, the structured and analytical style of Fraser's program offered something new.
HWPO emphasises precision in every aspect of training, from movement mechanics to pacing and Brooke embraced this with enthusiasm.
Under Fraser's guidance, Brooke began to focus more on the technical details of her performance.
Workouts were no longer just about finishing strong - they were about executing perfectly.
Whether it was improving her efficiency in gymnastics movements, fine-tuning her lifting technique or mastering transitions during high-intensity workouts, every element of her training was approached with purpose and intention.
One of the most significant changes was the focus on pacing and strategy.
HWPO's programming challenged Brooke to think critically about how she approached workouts, helping her develop a deeper understanding of her strengths and limitations.
By learning to pace herself more effectively, she gained the ability to manage her energy across longer events and avoid burnout during grueling competitions.
Another key aspect of the HWPO experience was the community.
Surrounded by like-minded athletes and coaches, Brooke thrived in an environment that demanded excellence while fostering camaraderie and support.
The HWPO mantra - Hard Work Pays Off - resonated deeply with Brooke's own work ethic and fueled her drive to push beyond her limits.
The impact of HWPO on Brooke's training was evident not only in her physical performance but also in her mental game.
With Fraser's mentorship, she gained a renewed sense of confidence and clarity in her approach to competition.
The emphasis on preparation and attention to detail allowed her to step onto the floor feeling more focused and capable than ever before.
For Brooke, joining HWPO wasn't just about improving as an athlete - it was about reigniting her passion for the sport and finding new ways to challenge herself.
The partnership with Fraser and his team has provided her with the tools to continue evolving, both as a competitor and as a leader in the CrossFit community.
This new chapter is a testament to Brooke's commitment to growth and her belief in the power of hard work and adaptability.
As she continues to train with HWPO, Brooke Wells is proving that even after years of success, there's always room to reach higher, refine further and achieve more.
Over the course of her CrossFit career, Brooke Wells has built a legacy defined by consistency, grit and a series of remarkable achievements that have left an indelible mark on the sport.
From her breakout performance as a teenager to becoming one of the most consistent competitors at the CrossFit Games, Brooke's journey is a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence.
One of Brooke's most notable achievements came in 2016, during her second appearance at the CrossFit Games.
At just 20 years old, she placed 6th overall, an extraordinary accomplishment that solidified her status as one of the sport's rising stars.
Her performance that year showcased her raw strength and determination, particularly in events that demanded heavy lifting and explosive power.
It was a defining moment that put her on the radar as a serious contender in the CrossFit world.
Throughout her career, Brooke has qualified for the CrossFit Games an impressive eight times - a feat achieved by only a select few in the sport's history.
This level of consistency speaks volumes about her work ethic, resilience and ability to adapt to the ever-changing demands of CrossFit.
From mastering new skills to overcoming injuries, Brooke has proven time and again that she has what it takes to compete at the highest level year after year.
Her most memorable moments often involve her incredible displays of strength.
Fans will never forget her dominating performances in heavy barbell events, such as the Squat Clean Pyramid at the Games, where her power and poise under pressure left audiences in awe.
These performances have earned her a reputation as one of the strongest and most fearless athletes in CrossFit.
But Brooke's legacy extends beyond podium finishes and impressive lifts.
In 2020, during the grueling Ranch Loop event at the CrossFit Games, she demonstrated unmatched mental toughness.
The event, a brutal test of endurance and strategy, saw Brooke push through physical exhaustion and mental barriers to deliver a strong finish. Moments like these have endeared her to fans and showcased the heart of a champion.
Brooke's career is also defined by her ability to inspire others.
Her resilience in the face of setbacks, including her 2021 elbow injury and subsequent comeback, has shown the CrossFit community what it means to persevere.
She has become a role model for athletes of all levels, proving that strength is about more than just physical ability - it's about the courage to keep going when the odds are stacked against you.
As one of CrossFit's most enduring and beloved athletes, Brooke Wells has left an undeniable mark on the sport.
Her career highlights, coupled with her infectious enthusiasm and down-to-earth personality, have made her a fan favorite and a symbol of what it means to compete with heart and determination.
Brooke's legacy is far from finished, but the impact she has already made ensures that her name will be remembered as one of the greats in CrossFit history.
Whether through her unforgettable performances, her resilience in overcoming challenges or her ability to inspire the next generation, Brooke Wells has cemented her place as a true icon of the sport.
As Brooke Wells continues her CrossFit journey, her focus is shifting beyond personal accolades.
While she remains fiercely committed to competing at the highest level, her vision for the future is equally about giving back, inspiring others and leaving a lasting legacy in the sport she loves.
One of Brooke's top priorities is to keep competing with the same passion and intensity that have defined her career.
With eight CrossFit Games appearances under her belt, she is determined to push for even greater achievements, including a coveted podium finish.
Each competition season brings new challenges and opportunities and Brooke is more motivated than ever to prove that her best is yet to come.
But Brooke's ambitions go beyond her own success.
She has a deep desire to mentor young athletes who are just beginning their fitness journeys.
Reflecting on her own early experiences in CrossFit, Brooke understands the importance of guidance and encouragement.
She hopes to use her platform to share the lessons she's learned, from overcoming setbacks to staying disciplined and focused on long-term goals.
For Brooke, mentoring isn't just about teaching skills - it's about empowering others to believe in themselves and their potential.
In addition to mentorship, Brooke is branching out into new ventures that allow her to connect with a broader audience.
One of her most exciting projects is the book she has written, which chronicles her journey as an athlete.
In it, Brooke shares not only the highlights of her career but also the struggles, the setbacks and the mindset shifts that have shaped her into the person she is today.
The book aims to inspire readers by showing that success is built on resilience, hard work and an unwavering belief in the process.
Beyond CrossFit, Brooke is exploring other ways to make an impact in the health and fitness world.
Whether it's through workshops, speaking engagements or collaborations with brands that align with her values, she is committed to promoting the importance of fitness, nutrition and mental resilience.
Brooke sees these endeavors as an extension of her role as a leader in the community, using her influence to inspire positive change.
Brooke is also focused on building a life that balances her athletic ambitions with personal growth.
She values her relationships, her family and the support system that has been with her every step of the way.
As she looks ahead, she hopes to use her experiences to show others that success isn't just about winning - it's about living a life of purpose, passion and perseverance.
For Brooke Wells, the future is filled with possibilities.
She's not only looking to achieve her own dreams but also to inspire the next generation of athletes to dream big and work hard.
Through her mentorship, her writing and her unwavering commitment to personal growth, Brooke is paving the way for others to follow in her footsteps.
Her vision for the future is clear: to continue competing, continue growing and continue making a difference.
Whether in the CrossFit arena or beyond, Brooke Wells is determined to leave a legacy of strength, resilience and inspiration for years to come.
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Brooke Wells: Power, Resilience and Redefining Strength