Cat Bechtold
Owner, CF Aptos / CF-L2 Coach
Masters Strongman Athlete | National & Arnold Podium Finisher
USPA Powerlifting DOTS Rank: 411
Weightlifting Coaching Certification
About Coach Cat
I started my fitness journey in 2012 as a runner, completing multiple 10Ks, half marathons, and obstacle races including Spartans and mud runs. When I found CrossFit, everything changed. I quickly fell in love with strength training, especially the barbell, and it opened the door to a whole new level of performance, confidence, and personal growth.
That passion eventually led me into competitive powerlifting, where I earned a California state deadlift record. From there, I was encouraged to step into Strongman, and I haven’t looked back. Since 2018, I’ve competed in Strongman events across the country and at elite international competitions, earning multiple podium finishes at both the national level and on the world stage, including back-to-back 2nd place finishes at the Arnold Strongman Masters in 2025 and 2026.
CrossFit has remained the foundation of it all. It’s how I discovered my strength, both physically and mentally, and it continues to shape how I train, coach, and live. I use CrossFit not only to stay conditioned for competition, but because it builds real, lasting fitness that carries into everyday life.
Turning Point
Like many people, the COVID shutdown became a major turning point for me. I found myself struggling with my health, gaining weight, and dealing with increased anxiety. When life began to reopen, I made a decision to take control again, not just physically, but mentally.
That season helped me realize how important the CrossFit community was in my life. I decided to step into coaching and put my L1 certification to work, and shortly after, I earned my L2 to deepen my knowledge and expand my impact. Since then, I’ve continued investing in my education, including studying kinesiology and expanding my understanding of training, nutrition, and performance.
Coaching Philosophy
I believe fitness should build confidence, resilience, and a sense of capability that extends far beyond the gym.
My goal as a coach is to help people discover their own strength, whether that means lifting their first barbell, improving endurance, recovering from setbacks, or pushing into challenges they never thought possible.
CrossFit is more than just exercise. It is community, accountability, and support. At CrossFit Aptos, I’m passionate about creating an environment where people feel welcomed, challenged, and proud of what they are capable of.