Zachary Thornton

Zac’s CrossFit journey began in 2019 at Swamp Rabbit CrossFit in Greenville, South Carolina. After being diagnosed with a type of arthritis in his spine, his doctor gave him life-changing advice: stay strong, stay mobile, and keep moving. That first workout lit a fire in him and he’s been hooked ever since. What started as a way to manage pain became a lifelong passion that’s transformed his physical and mental health. With a background in baseball through high school and college, Zac was no stranger to hard work or discipline. But it was CrossFit that revealed his true calling: coaching. Over the past three years, he’s dedicated himself to helping others move better, feel stronger, and discover what they’re truly capable of both in and out of the gym. Zac holds a CrossFit Level 2 certification and is also a certified USA Olympic Weightlifting coach. For Zac, coaching isn’t just a job, it’s a purpose. He thrives off the energy in class, the “ah-ha” moments when an athlete nails their first push-up or pull-up, and the relationships built over time. “The feeling I get when I’m in front of a class is undeniable. I know this is what I’m meant to do.” In January 2025, Zac stepped into a new chapter by becoming co-owner of CrossFit SERVE alongside Mike Davis. Together, they’re focused on growing the gym and fostering a powerful, inclusive community. Zac describes SERVE as one of the most welcoming, inspiring groups he’s ever been a part of. Full of energy, resilience, and individuals who lift each other up. His favorite movements? Burpee box jump overs and dumbbell snatches. Least favorite? Without hesitation, thrusters. His favorite workout? Open Workout 21.2—no explanation needed. Zac’s go-to mantra: “We do hard things in the gym so we can do hard things in life.” Outside the gym, Zac is a retired military veteran who joined the Army at 17. He’s got dreams of traveling across Europe, and you’ll never find him without thumb tape and grips in his gym bag.