Vanessa Buso

Vanessa’s journey into CrossFit began in the summer of 2022, thanks to a persistent physiotherapist friend who convinced her to try a few METCONs. After just a few classes, she was hooked. With a background in sports like lacrosse, track & field, cross country, horseback riding, and powerlifting, Vanessa found that CrossFit combined everything she loved about training, challenge, variety, and community.

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She quickly immersed herself in the sport, earning her CrossFit Level 1 certification by December 2022 and joining the coaching staff at CrossFit SERVE. Vanessa also holds additional CrossFit certifications, including “Spot the Flaw” and Open Judges credentials (2023–2025), as well as an impressive collection of cybersecurity and cloud certifications in her full-time profession as a Senior AI & Cloud Security expert at MetLife.

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As a coach, Vanessa is passionate about helping athletes break through mental and physical barriers. Whether it’s mastering a new skill or fine-tuning technique, she loves seeing the spark in an athlete’s eyes when something finally clicks. Her approach is rooted in empowerment, growth, and inclusion.

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Vanessa describes the SERVE community as the most welcoming and supportive space she’s ever trained in. An environment that breaks away from CrossFit’s “bro-ey” reputation and instead champions connection, progress, and encouragement for every athlete.

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Her favorite CrossFit workouts include rowing, wall balls, and heavy barbells (especially Open workouts 19.1 and 17.1), while thrusters and high-volume power snatches top her “least favorite” list. Her go-to mantra? “Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.” – Zig Ziglar.

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When she’s not coaching or securing cloud infrastructure, Vanessa enjoys time outdoors, playing guitar, and hanging out with her Border Collie, Tucker. A fun fact: she holds dual citizenship with Germany and once competed internationally in 3-Day Eventing. Her gym bag essential? Pink thumb tape—always. #WarmBodyColdMind