Coach Missy Byers: 1,000 Classes, Countless Memories, and a Legacy of Strength
When you walk into Gifford Fitness, there’s a good chance you’ll hear Coach Missy’s voice cheering someone on or see one of her boys pushing through a lift with the same determination she’s known for. For Missy, Gifford Fitness has never been just a gym. It’s a community, a second home, and a place where her family has truly grown together.
Missy’s three sons Will, Carter, and Jake have all been part of the Gifford Fitness family over the years, and watching them develop through the programs has been a source of pride and joy.
“It’s amazing to watch them get better and better as they continue through the programs,” she said. “I’ve always known what they’re capable of, but to see them start realizing it for themselves that’s truly special. Their confidence has gone through the roof.”
Proud Moments and Big Lifts
When asked about a moment that stands out:
“I’ll always remember each of them getting a PR on their deadlift,” she said. “Will hit 405 pounds one night in the adult CrossFit Total that was huge. Then Carter and Jake did the Midday Showcase during 24 Hours of Heroes this year. Carter hit 405, more than he’d planned for, and Jake went for a bigger jump than he expected and nailed 265! Those moments take incredible focus, mentally and physically. I’ll never forget them.”
Coaching, Parenting, and Perspective
As both a mom and a coach, Missy sees firsthand how important it is to make fitness approachable and fun especially for kids.
“I’ve learned that fitness needs to be social and enjoyable, that's what keeps people coming back,” she said. “Yes, it’s about getting stronger, but if you’re not having fun and connecting with others, it’s not sustainable. It’s about creating happy, healthy people who genuinely enjoy movement. When kids see that fitness can be fun, they’ll stick with it.”
Family Traditions and Shared Grit
One of Missy’s favorite traditions is participating in 24 Hours of Heroes with her boys.
“We push each other through some tough challenges, and the time spent doing hard things together is something I’ll cherish forever,” she said. “One year, I was really struggling during a workout physically and mentally. Carter came over while I was doing wall balls and started cheering me on, pushing me to finish. I’ll never forget that moment.”
1,000 Classes and Counting
This fall, Missy hit an incredible milestone: 1,000 classes.
“Honestly, I can’t even fathom that number,” she said. “It’s a testament to dedication and commitment. I hope it shows others that if I can do it as a teacher and mom to three active boys anyone can. It means a lot to me to be an example for others.”
How It All Began
Missy’s Gifford Fitness journey started thanks to a Christmas gift from her sister, Kate. A Kickstart class in January 2021.
“She figured since I asked for new workout clothes, I might actually use them!” Missy laughed. “It was mid-COVID, so we worked out in taped-off sections, wearing masks, with the garage door open even in below-zero weather! At the end of those 12 sessions, I thought, ‘Well, I guess we keep going.’ And I did.”
For the first year, Missy only attended the CrossFit classes. “Strength Day” Weightlifting classes intimidated her at first but with some encouragement from Coach Matt, she gave them a try.
“Now, I love those days,” she said. “I only wish I’d started sooner. The workouts are great, but it’s the people and the community that make me excited to come back every day.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
As a coach, Missy has a front-row seat to the next generation of athletes finding their strength.
“The kids inspire us adults to loosen up and have fun,” she said. “They remind us to take chances and not take fitness too seriously. And at the same time, they see the adults showing up and putting in the work it gives them something to aim for. I hope we’re an inspiration to them, too.”
Her message to young athletes is simple but powerful:
“Fitness is fun, don’t forget that! Work hard, but enjoy the process. Don’t be afraid to fail. You’ll never know what you’re capable of unless you push past what you think you can do. You are capable of hard things, keep fighting for the things you want.”
Beyond the Gym
Outside of coaching, Missy’s happiest moments are spent with her boys watching their games, playing cards, reading, doing puzzles, crafting, or baking.
Her idea of a perfect day?
“Laying on a beach along the Florida coast with a good book. Realistically perfect? Waking up to a clean house, reading a bit, and exploring a new part of Minnesota with my boys.”
A Few Fun Facts
Most people might not know that Missy was a college cheerleader and graduated with her degree at just 19 years old. Right now, she’s working on a couple of new personal goals: learning to play the guitar so she can perform for her class at school, and teaching herself to crochet.
After 1,000 classes, Missy’s legacy at Gifford Fitness is one of consistency, kindness, and contagious energy, the kind that lifts up everyone around her. From her boys to her athletes, she’s proof that strength isn’t just about what you lift, it's about how you show up, every single day.