Mel Starks

About Coach Mel

Coach Mel is a a kid from Maine

I’m just a kid from Maine and could run before I could walk.  I’ve always enjoyed athletics and being active. I spent most of my growing up years outside running, biking, climbing trees, swimming, skiing and doing parkour at the playground before it was cool. I was a gymnast, a tap dancer and break dancer! Needless to say…I’m still doing (most) of these things as an adult.

I've been a fan of CrossFit since its early years. In 2013, I mustered up some courage and stepped into my first CrossFit box in Newmarket, England.  I’d met the box owner the week before on market day in the square.  We had a lovely chat and he handed me a leaflet inviting me to his Grand Opening the following week. I loved it! The energy, the intensity and learning to push myself in new ways! I wasn’t there long as the military sent my family back to America…Falcon, Colorado to be exact.  It took a bit to adjust to being back on American soil but I found my way into a CrossFit box in Colorado Springs.  After a few months there my schedule changed (again) and I knew there was a local box just 3 miles from my house…

My first day dropping in at CrossFit Rail Stop in October of 2017, I knew I was home. I was welcomed by the coaches and members with big smiles and open arms. As much as I love working out I found that I loved helping others as well.  I “shadow coached” for at least a year then…thanks to the support and encouragement from my Rail Stop family in 2019 I obtained my CF-L1!  I’m always looking for ways I can help our athletes and the community find a love of fitness and nutrition. Since completing my CF-L2, I’ve continuously looked to grow through specialty courses to expand my coaching breadth and knowledge.