Linda Solana is one of those rare people who quietly impresses everyone around her. A longtime member of our gym, she shows up with steady consistency—unless she’s off enjoying a well-earned European vacation with fellow CrossFitters!
Outside the gym, Linda has a deep love of horses and a true passion for dressage. The same focus, discipline, and connection she brings to the saddle shines through in every workout. She moves with intention, trains with purpose, and proves that strength and grace are not just compatible—they’re unstoppable together.
Linda doesn’t look or act her age, and we love her all the more for it. She’s always cheerful, always kind, and always brings light to the room. We’re grateful to have her in our community.
Here’s a bit from Linda in her own words:
Tell us a bit about yourself and your family.
My husband Bob and I moved here 13 years ago from Smithtown, Long Island, New York. My daughter had graduated high school and was attending USC in Columbia. We had built a hunt box in Aiken with the intention of moving down but came sooner than expected when my long term tenant had to go back to California. I was so tired of the New York winters and horses that did nothing for 3-4 months due to snow and ice. It was like starting over each spring with the horses and I will not mention the plowing, shoveling and cold. Being able to ride year round on ground that does not freeze is what brought me here. The close proximity to the coast and Lake Murray were also a factor since Bob loves the water. We still own our company on Long Island and I worked full time when we moved here. Now, due to excellent employees, I work a few hours a week when needed.
What made you start CrossFit? What has kept you going? Has your motivation changed over time?
I belonged to a great HIIT gym on Long Island called CATZ (Combined Athletic Training Zone). It began as a gym training young athletes who played softball, soccer, etc. to teach the athletes how to exercise and avoid injuries. From here, the gym started working with adults-many were parents whose children attended and were also interested in getting fit. When I moved here I searched for a gym. One neighbor could not figure this out and said I should just go out and walk and another recommended a personal trainer (who is still training people) and he was AWFUL. I would leave and not even be sweating. My daughter, Casey, saw a Groupon for CrossFit and that is how it began. On Long Island the only thing we knew about CrossFit were the law suits because businesses located next to these gyms said their employees could not work due to the dropping of the bar bells. I came and did a ten minute workout with Brent and I was sweating. Brent, being a man of few words, said, “Well?” and I said, “Oh Yes!”. I come consistently and never tire of the workouts. I am motivated to stay fit so I can enjoy my horse and not struggle with the barn chores and property maintenance.
What are your Fitness goals? Professional goals? Personal Goals? How close are you to reaching them?
I want to stay as fit and toned as possible. When I see some of my neighbors who are my age, or younger, there is no comparison about what I can do and they can do.
What kinds of changes have no noticed since starting CrossFit?
I am fit and it keeps my mood in check. If I don’t go to the gym, I feel cranky and not energized.
What have you learned about movement, fitness, and yourself through CrossFit?
I have learned how important the correct position is so as to avoid injury. I have learned all about alternative movements if something is hurting or not feeling right that day. I have learned that we have great people at the gym and that there is no judgement in how much weight you lift. Listen to your body is a big one we adhere to.
How do you make time for working out?
I like the 8:30 am class-love the people and it gets me out of the house and all my errands are done afterward. There is not a decision about making time-it is 8:30 no question.
What is your favorite healthy meal? Have your eating habits changed since starting CrossFit? If all the coaches were coming to your place for dinner what would you cook for them?
I will skip this question. I am not a cook and if all the coaches want to come over either my husband will cook or reservations will be made.
LOL! go Linda! And stay out of that kitchen!!!!
With everything you have accomplished, has your view of yourself changed?
Yes I am dedicated and I think CrossFitters do not realize how hard our workouts are and yet we get through them.
What would you say to anyone who is struggling?
We all struggle at times and just work through it. Lift lighter if need be or use a bare bar to work on position. Modify the workout or shorten it. There is no judgement-everyone is so supportive.
What or who is an inspiration to you?
So many of the members are an inspiration. There is Brent who is always watching and many times shaking his head when I am on the wrong leg or am doing the wrong thing. Bethany with her great coaching and keeping an eye on my position, Michael who always has a bright and cheery good morning to all who come to class, and Dana’s bootcamp which is always a different workout. Sharon who is now coming to the early class since she is babysitting her beautiful granddaughter and Trish who is another steady at the 8:30. I am blown away by Nicole, Nikki and a newer member Cambria. All in all, great people and all so accepting. Where else would you make friends and go on a great trip to Italy-CrossFit for sure.
