Our Team
Margaret Beck
Owner & Head Coach
Certifications: CF-L2, CF Gymnastics, Burgener Strength WL-L1
Specializes in: Gymnastics Strength and Skill, Functional Bodybuilding
Margaret has been in strength and fitness for upwards of 10 years, with a background in powerlifting and bodybuilding. CrossFit came into her life after needing a mode of exercise that would help her physical preparedness for a demanding job outdoors and has been her main mode of activity ever since. She moved to Portland in July of 2021, and became head coach and programmer for CrossFit Risio before fully taking over ownership of the gym in May of 2022 and rebranding the gym to CrossFit Risio in September 2023. She specializes in training people who have a blend of both aesthetic and strength goals, and particularly enjoys coaching the aspects of gymnastic/bodyweight strength and skill with her clients. She works with everyone who uses strength training to support running and other outdoor activities to those who have never lifted before and want to build muscle, change their body composition, and get strong. She has availability for personal training Monday through Friday in both 30- and 60-minute increments.
Nate Rhoades
Certifications: CF-L1, USAW-L1
Specializes in: barbell strength, olympic weightlifting
As a fitness instructor of 5 years in CrossFit and Olympic Weightlifting, my mission is to help others find their best selves through strength, movement, and fitness. Whether it’s weight-loss and nutrition, strength and muscle building, or just an overall improved level of health, I am passionate about guiding my clients on their journeys in reaching their goals.
I love to teach people how to move a barbell more efficiently and effectively; I aim to help them feel more comfortable and confident with the movements of Olympic Weightlifting; the Clean & Jerk and the Snatch.
My training philosophy is as follows: increase mobility, engrain the basics, and build proper body mechanics before increasing intensity; move better before you move faster.
In addition to coaching, I am also an Masters athlete for a competitive weightlifting team here in Portland. I participate in local and national competitions when possible to gain experience and build camaraderie within the Olympic Weightlifting community. When I’m not at the gym, I enjoy ALL the eats, beer, and fancy cocktails the PNW has to offer.
Come lift with me!
Jeff Franzen
Certifications: CF-L2, USAW L2 Advanced Weightlifting, ACE Certified Personal Trainer
With more than 9 years of coaching experience, Jeff has trained hundreds of people through all different experience levels. His passion for training has always driven him to continue to learn and grow to best be able to help others on their fitness journey.
Jeff didn’t grow up as an athlete and spent much of his early life avoiding physical activity. That all changed in his early 20s when he realized that he no longer felt comfortable or confident in his body. Unsure of where to start, he signed up for a membership at a commercial gym and hasn’t looked back since.
After a move to Denver, Colorado, Jeff began training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. On the side, he started doing CrossFit to get stronger for Jiu-Jitsu. Jeff’s focus quickly turned to CrossFit after finding a deep enthusiasm for strength training. In 2012, he realized we wanted to be a leader in the gym space and help others find their own passion for movement. He began interning and eventually became a full-time coach. Since then, Jeff has coached at multiple gym locations in Denver, Los Angeles, and Portland. He continues to be driven by his dedication to help people meet their strength, movement, and fitness goals.
Paula Waltz
Certifications: CF-L1
As the newest member of the coaching team here at Risio, Paula is very excited to share with the members of the gym what CrossFit has done for her; building both physical and mental strength, confidence in body and mind, and resiliency in all areas of life. She especially loves to teach those who have little to no previous experience with lifting weights and group exercise. Find her on the class schedule on Tuesdays and Thursdays!
When she’s not at the gym, she is working with kids on various sports and recreational activities, or raising her two Dachshund fur babies with her partner.
