photos by:  JODIE BRIM CREATIVE

When Washington Park CrossFit members think of their gym buddy Roberto Rodriguez, they see dedication, consistency, and a dad whose intent on being healthy and present for his family.

Now joined by his wife Stephany — who fell in love with the WPCF family through their women’s program Hot Girl Hour — Roberto embodies the real mission behind this popular Winston-Salem gym that has bonded a unique group of people. 

“Helping people and empowering them with the confidence to try something new has always been our goal,” shares co-owner Brooke Culler.

Roberto and Stephany love sharing how the gym has given them so much more than simply a place to work out.

“WPCF has given us confidence, friendships, accountability, and a community where we feel supported and encouraged to become better versions of ourselves,” Roberto explains.

Facing challenges head-on is nothing new to Roberto and Stephany, who met in El Salvador in 2011. Their lunchtime conversations as co-workers turned into something more, and the two married in 2015. Not long after, Stephany had an opportunity to continue her career with HanesBrands, and the couple took a leap of faith — moving to Winston-Salem to build a future together.

“We spent nearly two years navigating the immigration process so Roberto could join me in the United States,” shares Stephany. “We traveled back and forth frequently, often seeing each other every month or every other month. Thankfully, Roberto was able to work remotely for much of that period, which helped us stay connected while we were apart.”

The two officially began their life together in Winston-Salem in 2018 and have welcomed two wonderful children — four-year-old Sebastian, and two-year-old, Vera — who also grace our cover and are familiar faces around the gym! 

As often happens, Roberto and Stephany’s CrossFit journey began with a wake-up call. 

“In October 2024, Roberto received some lab results with numbers he didn’t like,” shares Stephany. “A conversation with his health care provider quickly turned to medications, and it became clear he’d likely need several prescriptions. At the time, he wasn’t even 40 years old, and the thought of taking as many medications as his mom made him realize something needed to change. He decided to make a significant lifestyle adjustment and see what was possible.”

Roberto had driven by Washington Park CrossFit often but now decided to stop in and take a look. He was only inside a few minutes when something clicked — and he returned for his first class later that same day. Those classes became a routine, where he was consistently showing up and making progress. Both Roberto and Stephany say they felt welcomed and supported from the start.

“We hope you feel a welcoming vibe here,” shares Brooke’s husband, co-owner, and CrossFit coach Gavin Culler — who’s known for his focus on teaching proper form and technique.

While Roberto was always active growing up — but struggled with consistency — Stephany admits exercise simply hadn’t been part of her routine until a year ago when Roberto encouraged her to give Hot Girl Hour a try.

If you’re anxious to see what Hot Girl Hour is all about — the summer session starts July 7th! This six-week program is designed to introduce weightlifting and gymnastics/CrossFit skills to women who may feel intimidated by just hopping right into a class. And yes, Hot Girl Hour is an all-female experience, coached by ALL females as well. Email [email protected] to sign up!

A bonus of their better health journey, some of Roberto and Stephany’s favorite moments together are the ones they share at the gym.

“We celebrate each other’s progress and sometimes endure the same workouts side-by-side,” Stephany adds. “It’s been a lifestyle change for our entire family. We’re healthier, stronger, and more confident — not just physically, but also mentally. More importantly, it’s introduced us to an incredible community of coaches and friends who have supported us every step of the way.”

Both agree fitness feels like something they want to do now, not something they have to do.

“We work out because we want to be healthy, capable, and present for our children for as long as possible,” Stephany adds. “Our son has been diagnosed with autism, and our daughter works through speech challenges of her own. As parents, those experiences have reinforced how important it is to take care of ourselves so we can show up for them every day in the ways they need us most.”

Washington Park CrossFit’s all-around family atmosphere checked a big box for both Roberto and Stephany, as well as many others.

“As parents, having a place where our children are welcomed is incredibly important, and we don’t take that for granted. It allows us to prioritize our health without sacrificing family time,” adds Stephany.

“We have quite a few couples as members — some work out together and for others, it’s a tag-team effort where one works out and the other spends time with the kids,” adds Brooke. Supporting members and the community goes far beyond daily workouts — something else that impressed Roberto and Stephany.

“The gym is constantly finding ways to bring people together and give back. From community gatherings and special events to charitable fundraisers, there’s always something happening. Last year, for example, the gym hosted a Hot Dog Mile fundraiser benefitting a local animal shelter. It’s those events that show this is about more than fitness — we’re making a positive impact in the community,” Stephany adds. WPCF also volunteered as a group at the Ronald McDonald House last summer, and there are more volunteer opportunities on the way!

At the end of the day, it’s a true sense of belonging that keeps members such as Roberto and Stephany engaged and thriving.

“The equipment, classes, and amenities are great, but it’s community that makes Washington Park CrossFit special. It’s a place where people look out for one another, support each other’s goals, and make you feel like you’re part of something bigger than yourself,” Stephany adds.

Begin finding the very best version of yourself at Washington Park CrossFit, located at 2020 Hollyrood Street in Winston-Salem. Follow them on Instagram @washingtonparkcrossfit, and visit washingtonparkcrossfit.com to sign up for a free one-week trial or learn more about varied membership plans. Classes are available throughout the day, from early morning to evening, with options that are sure to fit your schedule!

CALL-OUT:

CrossFit not your thing? Washington Park CrossFit also offers an Olympic weightlifting program — Winston-Salem weightlifting. Head Coach Jess Lake is joined by weightlifting coaches Wes Richardson and Gavin Culler at the only USAW-affiliated barbell club in Winston-Salem!