Joe Chavez

Joe Chavez is a Certified CrossFit Level 3 Trainer with additional certifications in both Olympic weightlifting and gymnastics. He is also the owner and head coach of Rivalry CrossFit in Jackson, TN.

Joe served in the United States Army from 2007 to 2015. During a deployment from 2010 to 2011, he was introduced to CrossFit through workouts popularized by Navy SEALs. His first experience was with the workout Fran, which left him breathless, sweating, and trying to process what had just happened. Following that moment, he occasionally incorporated CrossFit workouts into his regular hypertrophy training. After leaving the military, Joe took a break from cardio altogether for several years.

In 2017, on the recommendation of a friend, he joined a CrossFit gym. This decision reignited his passion for fitness and humbled him as he re-engaged with CrossFit workouts. While pursuing his education full-time, Joe also worked part-time as a CrossFit coach before eventually moving to Jackson, TN in 2020. During that time he took a break from coaching, but returned to it in the spring of 2022 at CrossFit Jackson—an experience that re-lit his passion for developing athletes.

In January 2023, Joe advanced his coaching journey by earning his CrossFit Level 2 certification. The seminar proved transformative, reshaping his entire coaching philosophy as he modeled himself after the examples set by the seminar staff. Inspired, he dedicated himself to studying CrossFit methodology, honing fundamentals, and refining his approach. A year later, in January 2024, he joined a coaching development group where he received direct mentorship and feedback from four active seminar staff members. By September 2024, his dedication and persistence were recognized when he earned the distinction of Certified CrossFit Trainer (Level 3).

Joe’s coaching is not just recognized on paper—it’s reflected in the words of the athletes he’s worked with. Reviews from his time at CrossFit Jackson (2022-2024) praised his energy, instruction, and welcoming nature, often mentioning him by name alongside other coaches. After opening Rivalry CrossFit in 2025, the positive feedback has only grown. Recent reviews highlight how “Joe does an amazing job teaching proper technique while motivating you to push your limits” and describe him as “a great instructor” who creates “an amazing atmosphere.” This continuity of praise across gyms speaks to the consistency of his coaching and the trust he has earned from the Jackson community.

Joe’s favorite CrossFit movements include moderate-to-heavy thrusters and muscle-ups. Above all, he is passionate about working with athletes of all experience levels—sharing in their growth, celebrating their progress, and helping them develop both skill and confidence.

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