Our Coaching Team

 

Margaret Beck

Owner & Head Coach
Certifications: CF-L2, CF Gymnastics, Burgener Strength WL-L1

Specializes in: Gymnastics Strength and Skill, Functional Bodybuilding

With over a decade in strength and fitness, Margaret brings a background in powerlifting, bodybuilding, and functional training to the coaching floor. Her journey into fitness began as a way to build the strength and conditioning needed for a physically demanding outdoor job—and it quickly became her primary training method.

After moving to Portland in July 2021, Margaret became Head Coach and Programmer at Primal Energy. In May 2022, she stepped into ownership, officially rebranding the gym to Risio in September 2023, and then once again making a shift to Risio Athletics in September 2025.

Margaret specializes in coaching individuals who want to blend aesthetic goals with strength and performance. She particularly enjoys training athletes in gymnastics and bodyweight strength, and loves working with a wide range of clients—from runners and outdoor adventurers to beginners looking to build muscle, change body composition, and get strong for the first time.

 

Jeff Franzen

Certifications: CF-L1, 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 functional fitness to get stronger for Jiu-Jitsu. Jeff’s focus quickly turned to functional training after finding a deep enthusiasm for strength. 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, CF-L2

Paula is passionate about helping others experience the life-changing impact functional fitness has had on her—building strength, confidence, and resilience both in and out of the gym. Her favorite athletes to coach? The ones just getting started. She loves working with people who are new to lifting weights or group fitness, creating a welcoming environment where progress feels exciting, not intimidating.

With a focus on encouragement, proper form, and celebrating small wins, Paula is here to help you feel stronger every time you walk in.

A woman lifting a barbell during a weightlifting competition or training session in a gym.

Liz Ruegg

Certifications: USAW-L1

Liz is a full-time physical therapist with a strong foundation in human movement, rehabilitation, and performance. She combines clinical expertise with practical coaching to help people get out of pain and move to their fullest potential.

Outside of work, Liz spends as much time as possible outdoors, especially during the summer months, whether she’s running, exploring, or enjoying time with her dog.

As a coach, Liz is known for her ability to challenge athletes beyond what they think they’re capable of. She takes a straightforward, supportive approach that blends physical therapy knowledge with performance-driven coaching. Her goal is to help clients push past perceived limits, build confidence in their abilities, and develop durable fitness that carries over into everyday life.

A woman with dark hair, wearing a black headband and athletic clothing, climbs a muddy rope in an outdoor obstacle course. She appears determined and focused.

Sydney Hirth

Certifications: CF-L1

Sydney is the coach who will have you laughing while you’re squatting or doing a pull up, pushing you to dig deep while making you feel like you’re part of a community, not just a workout. With a knack for making the hardest workouts feel like the most fun part of your day, Sydney knows what it’s like to start from scratch. She’s been in your shoes and understands how overwhelming starting an exercise regimen can be. That’s why she’s great with both beginners and experienced athletes, providing a supportive and fun environment where everyone can thrive.

Sydney has an incredible ability to balance the fun with the hard work, knowing that Risio Athletics is about progress, one step at a time. Whether it’s your first box jump or you’re working on a personal record, Sydney will be there every step of the way, walking the walk and showing you that consistency is key.

A woman performing an overhead barbell lift at a gym, with other people working out in the background.
Smiling woman with tattoos on her arms, wearing a black T-shirt, standing in front of a glass window with words including 'BODY POSITIVE,' 'PHOBIA,' 'FREE,' and 'DETRACTOR' written on it.
A young woman with long brown hair, wearing a black top, smiling at the camera in an indoor setting with blurred green plants in the background.

Eileen Rui

Certifications: CF-L1

Eileen brings a unique blend of athleticism, discipline, and passion to the Risio community. With a background in competitive figure skating, she developed a strong foundation in balance, coordination, and mental toughness from a young age. Her transition into functional fitness came naturally, and she’s been hooked ever since.

After years of dedicated training and personal growth within the sport, Eileen earned her CF Level 1 certification in 2024. She’s committed to helping others unlock their full potential through functional fitness, emphasizing proper movement, consistency, and confidence.

Whether you're stepping into the gym for the first time or looking to take your training to the next level, Eileen’s supportive and energetic coaching style will help you feel empowered and capable every step of the way.

Caitlin Brennan

Certifications: CF L1, CrossFit L2, CF Kids, Precision Nutrition L1, BSc. in Kinesiology, MA in Exercise and Sports Science.

Caitlin is a powerhouse of unparalleled energy, knowledge, and infectious positivity. With years of hands-on experience in the world of exercise, she brings a deep understanding of movement and strength development to every class. Her coaching style blends technical precision with motivational support, drawing from her own extensive background as an athlete. She creates a space where athletes of all levels feel seen, challenged, and inspired to become the strongest version of themselves.

A man lifting a barbell during a CrossFit workout in a gym filled with other athletes and workout equipment.

Rick Morse

Certifications: CF-L1

Rick has been doing functional fitness for over a decade, building a deep knowledge of strength training and conditioning. His long-term consistency in the space reflects both his discipline and his appreciation for smart training that carries over into everyday life.

Outside the gym, Rick enjoys keeping things balanced, especially with a well-earned lil treat from Tabor Bread, one of his favorite local spots. That mix of hard work and simple enjoyment is a big part of how he approaches fitness and life in general.

Rick brings a steady and warm presence to his classes, is a master of all things scaling, and will help you put an emphasis on smart training, consistency, and doing the fundamentals well over time.

A man lifting a barbell during a CrossFit workout at a gym filled with other people also working out, with CrossFit equipment and branding visible.

Josh Ward

Certifications: CFL1

A recently certified coach, Josh brings fresh energy and a strong commitment to teaching and learning into his classes at Risio. He’s intentional about helping people focus on quality of movement over quantity of reps, and works to instill the importance of modifications and scalings paired with consistent effort over time.

These days, Josh is increasingly focused on running and HYROX-style training, exploring how aerobic capacity complements strength and overall fitness. He can often be found coaching Sunday endurance classes, where he helps others build an unstoppable engine through longer, more demanding sessions.