About Us
Founded in 2016, we offer a diverse range of classes that blend weightlifting, cardio, gymnastics, and more, ensuring a well-rounded fitness experience. We also have a 24-hour open gym option allowing you to pursue your fitness journey at your own pace.
In our training approach, we focus on moving well first, then building strength over time.
Every workout can be adjusted to your level, whether you’re brand new or have been training for years.
Our coaches are passionate about fitness and come from various backgrounds, united in their commitment to help you succeed. They are knowledgeable and dedicated, ready to guide you every step of the way. We believe in creating a friendly and fun atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, Tongass Fitness is the place for you.
Meet Your Coaches
Ben Kraft
I started CrossFit in late 2007, and I've loved picking up heavy things ever since. Now I teach people how to do the same: to move well and without pain, and to build a body capable of handling whatever real life throws at them.
I believe fitness doesn't need to be complicated, just fun. My coaching strips away the jargon and focuses on real-world, functional strength. No ego lifting and no unrealistic expectations, just sustainable movement, solid technique, and the empowering feeling of realizing you're much stronger than you think.
Benjamin Rubenstein
Bio coming soon
Jamie Rountree
I had an amazing childhood growing up here in Juneau. With so many opportunities for fishing, camping, hiking, and hunting the interest in physical fitness, or being physically fit, started early. There's something special about the camaraderie you become folded into with Tongass. It's a very accepting, supportive environment and one that prompted me to take another step in obtaining my coaching certificate in 2018. As a coach I enjoy helping my athletes reach their goals. It doesn't get much better than watching someone achieve something they've been working so hard for.
Jenn Womack
I started CrossFit in Kentucky back in 2017 and was immediately hooked! I quickly realized that no matter which CrossFit gym I walked into, the environment was consistently encouraging, fun, and motivating.
I joined Tongass Fitness in 2025 and stepped into coaching in 2026 while pregnant with my second baby. Functional fitness and HIIT-style training have been foundational in supporting me through two pregnancies and postpartum seasons. One of my favorite things about Tongass Fitness is that it’s a family-friendly space where I can bring my boys along while I work out. Finding that balance isn't always easy, but it is definitely possible!
As a coach, I love guiding members past their familiar limits and watching them accomplish goals they never thought possible. Outside the gym, I love spending time with my husband and sons—watching my toddler learn sports is a blast, and staying fit at Tongass ensures I can easily keep up with my busy family!
Kimmy Lamb
I've lived in Alaska my whole life & plan to stay for longer to help people pursue a healthy relationship with themselves through exercise, food, and rest. Outside the gym, I'm currently studying to be a dietitian. I believe the beautiful marriage of individualized nutrition and movement can increase your quality of life. I look forward to growing as a coach and helping educate and inspire others to believe that they are capable of being an athlete and seeing them become 1% better each day.
Lehua Galettes
I tried CrossFit in 2022 and it became my safe haven. I've tried different sports and workouts through the years. The variation workouts, supportive environment and shared camaraderie made a positive impact. CrossFit allowed me to try new challenges and push to new limits. It helped shape me. I want to share my experience with others and help their progress.
Petra Andrade
I started CrossFit in 2009 with a few friends in a garage gym and got my coaching certification in 2010. I still remember how proud and empowered I felt when I got my first pull-up. That feeling is a big part of why I love coaching today. I especially enjoy working with beginners and people who don't think of themselves as athletic. I want people to feel safe, comfortable, and capable when they walk into my class—and maybe a little surprised by what they discover they can do. My coaching style is low-key, playful, and encouraging, and I love helping people find their own version of “I can actually do this.” I moved to Juneau in 2025, and Tongass Fitness was one of my first stops. I quickly discovered the same thing that has kept me working out for so many years: the community, the challenge, and the fact that it never gets boring.
Rachel Phelps
I discovered CrossFit in 2020 and very quickly fell in love with the sport. My background is trail running but after a decade of mountain trails, I found I was getting slower and my joints could no longer handle the alpine miles. It took several months to get a handle on all the aspects of CrossFit style workouts, but consistency pays off and I soon noticed the benefits of strength training. My weights were going up, I started developing new muscles and was absolutely loving barbell strength training. I was so inspired by all the strong people in the gym who were also incredibly kind, welcoming and encouraging to me as a new member. Fast forward 5 years and I found myself part-owner of Tongass Fitness. Why? Because we are passionate that this gym remain a part of our community. I personally am still improving by getting stronger and faster AND I am still motivated by the energy of the gym community. These workouts can be hard, but they are totally adaptable for EVERYONE. It is so inspiring to see everyone work hard, watch their progress and celebrate in their achievement of news goals!
Rebecca Embler
Coaching has been a part of my life for a long time. I grew up doing gymnastics and got my first coaching job as a junior in high school working with preschoolers. Then, in college I coached girls competitive gymnastics and after college I coached adults at a gymnastics-inspired fitness gym. After moving to Juneau in 2019, I joined Tongass Fitness and instantly fell in love with the community and gym personality it embodies. To me, the best part of coaching is seeing people come together to support each other’s individual goals and well-being, and helping people feel good and be empowered to accomplish things they never thought they could (inside and outside of the gym!).
Sydney Heimbigner
I moved to Juneau in 2020 and Tongass Fitness was my very first taste of CrossFit. It has been home to many shin scrapes, PR's, laughter, plenty of sweat and even where I met my husband! I am a dietitian by trade and enjoy helping people discover what they are capable of, both physically and mentally. I want every athlete to feel seen, valued, and accomplished (even for the small stuff!). My goal is for people to leave the gym with the belief that they can do hard things. Alaska folks are built differently, and Tongass is a wonderful representation of the positive energy, mental resilience, and kindness that keeps people coming back and getting stronger.
Vicki Van Fleet
I came to Alaska in 1975 from New Hampshire - 22 years old - sold my car bought a one way ticket to Anchorage. Lived 21 years up north (Mat-Su, Anchorage, Kenai) and then came to Juneau.
I have never really coached before but have taken many yoga, pilates, aerobics classes throughout my adult like.
I had 2 major surgeries within the last 6-8 years (laminectomy and spinal fusion) and was desperately looking for something that addressed my aging needs.
I took a Better Bones and Balance class, and absolutely loved it.
After taking Sarah's class and then understanding that she was basically the only person in Juneau who was certified to instruct the class, I decided to get certified.
The demographics of our lovely little hamlet by the sea is such that I believe this class will fill a major void in community fitness.
And if I teach it - I have to show up.
ADDRESS
Tongass Fitness
5322 Shaune Drive
Juneau, AK 99801
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