If you’ve spent any time around Primal Fitness, chances are you’ve met Jeff Goering. Whether he’s crushing a workout or cheering on a teammate, Jeff's got the kind of energy and determination that makes a community stronger.

But his story isn’t just about lifting heavy weights or pushing through brutal WODs—it’s about transformation, resilience, and setting a powerful example for his daughter.

“I’m a 49-year-old father and husband,” Jeff says. “My day job is as a Professional Land Surveyor. But most people probably think I live at the gym.”

That version of Jeff, the one dedicated to fitness, mental toughness, and growth, has only existed since 2021. Before that, he says “I was a fat, lazy, drunk slob. I woke up one day and realized that this was the example that I was setting for my daughter.”

That realization sparked a turning point. Jeff decided to take on the 75 Hard challenge, a mental and physical toughness program that requires strict discipline and consistency for 75 straight days.

“I lost 60 pounds and changed my outlook on the kind of father, husband, and all-around person that I wanted to be,” he says. “I try to show my daughter how to treat fitness and mental toughness to be successful in whatever she chooses to do with her life.”

Since then, Jeff hasn’t slowed down. His workouts revolve around functional fitness.

“I’m all about CrossFit,” he says. “You get to push yourself while having a community to compete with and cheer for along the way.”

And it's that mix of personal challenge and community support is what keeps him coming back day after day.

It’s paid off, too.

One of Jeff’s proudest accomplishments came last November when he ran 10 miles in the Wichita Turkey Trot while wearing a 20-pound vest.

“That was the first time I ever ran that far in my life,” he says.

And he’s already eyeing the next challenge: “I’m going to qualify for the 1st Phorm Monster Games in Overland Park. I’ve got great people in my corner helping me train every day so that I can pull this off.”

When he’s not training, Jeff enjoys spending time outdoors, especially during hunting season.

“I love getting out to the woods to be in the middle of nature,” he says. One of his bucket-list adventures? “Big game hunting in the Western states. I always thought that hiking and camping in the mountains would be too difficult, but I think I could handle what the mountains throw at me.”

Like any dedicated athlete, Jeff’s journey hasn’t been without its setbacks. “What hasn’t Clayton helped me overcome?” he jokes. “He’s fixed up my shoulder, my hip, my back, and a bum elbow—all because I push harder than I should. But no pain, no gain, right?”

Through it all, Jeff credits Primal Fitness and his training partners for keeping him accountable and motivated. “Primal Fitness is my home away from home. They’ve become my closest friends and cheerleaders in fitness and in life,” he says.

As for advice to others just starting out or trying to find their groove again, Jeff keeps it simple:

“Don’t give up on yourself. If I can turn my life around, anybody can. Just don’t give yourself any other option.”

It’s that grit and determination that makes Jeff Goering such an inspiration, not only to his gym family but to everyone striving to become a better version of themselves.

We’re proud to celebrate him as our October Athlete of the Month!