ABOUT
Get to know the coaches
At Paragon, we have a diverse group of coaches from all different walks of life with a passion for CrossFit and one common goal, making a difference in your life.
Nate Taylor, Coach & Owner
Nate had always been competitive so when introduced to CrossFit in 2007, he never looked back! “This seemingly less superficial or organic approach to fitness is what grabbed my heart. I loved that there was a purpose to it all other than just changing how I looked. Initially, my aspirations were to improve speed, strength and everything it takes to be a better athlete. I still aim for the same but I’ve learned that chasing these goals simply makes me better at life.”
In 2008, Nate took a complete leap of faith and opened the 10th CrossFit in the state of Georgia…. CrossFit Paragon. Recognizing that group exercise was accessible at a number of different gyms, Nate has made it his goal each day to provide his members with the most knowledgeable staff in the business and to have more fun in class than ANY other gym around! Nate competed in the 2017 CrossFit Games and continues to spread his passion for a purpose driven fitness and living a better life everyday one workout, one person at a time.
Credentials ...
• CrossFit Level II
• CrossFit Bergner Olympic Lifting
• CrossFit Gymnastics
• Carl Paoli Gymnastics
• International Sports Medicine Association
• EMT-B/ G-Paramedic TC
• 2nd Degree Black Belt KB Taekwondo
• USCF cat-2
Maryam Tabassian, Coach
Maryam found her passion for fitness in her late thirties. In search for a solution to address the fatigue from the physical demands of her profession as a general dentist, Maryam found Crossfit. Simply after one month, there was no turning back.
“Crossfit truly changed my life. Having a caring, knowledgeable, and inspiring coach as well as a community to motivate me, and hold me accountable everyday was what got me hooked on Crossfit. Now this is my opportunity to give back and to make a positive lasting impact on other people’s lives. Fitness truly is a journey and a privilege for all to enjoy.”
Credentials ...
• Crossfit Level II
• Crossfit Olympic Lifting
• Crossfit Gymnastics
• Carl Paoli Gymnastics
• OPEX Program Design
• OPEX Nutrition
• OPEX Life Coaching
• CPR Certified
Ashley Taylor, Coach
Ashley grew up in the gym and watched her dad develop into both an amazing CrossFit coach and athlete. She has always had a competitive mindset and a passion for fitness. This transpired into her workouts immediately when her dad introduced her to CrossFit.
“CrossFit has given me the opportunity to develop into a better athlete in the gym and a better person outside of the gym. I not only look forward to my workouts each day, but also to the community that encourages me to be better everyday! Coaching allows me to give back to this community that has given me so much. I love pushing people to become the best versions of themselves they can be, and spreading the passion I have for both physical and mental fitness when coaching.”
Brian Merrell, Coach
As a former collegiate athlete, Brian has “Worked Out” for most of his life. It wasn’t till he found Crossfit in 2012 that fitness became FUN! “Using fitness as a way to stay active, mobile, and energetic has really made a difference in my life! The social aspect of walking into the gym each day, has been an added bonus!!” When Brian is not at the gym he enjoys playing and watching almost every sport imaginable, College Football being the most important.
"My Main goal as a Coach is to help people achieve their fitness goals, learn proper technique, be safe, and most importantly HAVE FUN!! “
Credentials ...
• CrossFit Level I
