Our Coaches

Lindsey Phillips

Nutrition Science, M.S., Exercise Science, B.S. | Certified CrossFit Trainer (Level 3) | USA Weightlifting Sport Performance Coach

Lindsey has been using CrossFit methodologies in both her coaching and her own training since 2010 when her and Josh first discovered CrossFit.com. She loves programming workouts for her clients, challenging them, and seeing their progress. A big emphasis of Lindsey’s is teaching clients how to properly mobilize and maintain their bodies; so staying current with research and science is an important part of helping athletes improve in the gym.

In addition to training, Lindsey has spent time in a university nutrition and sports performance laboratory, and also interned at Buffalo Cardiology and Pulmonary Associates where she worked in the wellness program, offering exercise and nutrition counseling to cardiac rehab patients. Lindsey enjoys competing in local CrossFit competitions, and has run three marathons, and completed multiple long distance bicycle tours. She loves being active, especially outdoors!

Josh Makar

Nutrition Science, M.S., Exercise Science, B.S. | Certified CrossFit Trainer (Level 3), CrossFit Endurance | USA Weightlifting Sport Performance Coach

While finishing his Master’s degree at the University at Buffalo, Josh Makar found CrossFit and immediately fell in love with the programming. He has been a personal trainer since 2008 and was the affiliate owner of CrossFit BAC Boulevard before founding Harborside CrossFit with Jeff and Lindsey. Josh has been a coach for athletes as young as 12 years old and those well into their 60s. During his time at the University at Buffalo, Josh worked in a nutrition and sports performance lab, and assisted in teaching a class on exercise application.

Josh has programmed for competitive youth sports teams and was formerly a strength and conditioning coach at Sweet Home High School working with multisport athletes as well as students who just wanted to learn about functional fitness and a healthy lifestyle. He meticulously plans and organizes programming meant to challenge and progress his athletes in group classes and those on an individual basis.

As a group, Josh, Jeff and Lindsey regularly work out together and compete in regional CrossFit events as well as races of all lengths. Josh also loves to be physical outdoors including hiking, cycling, rock climbing, snowboarding, and skateboarding.

Jeff Bavisotto

Health and Physical Education, B.S., Exercise Science, Minor | Certified CrossFit Trainer (Level 3), Crossfit Endurance, Crossfit Gymnastics, CrossFit Mobility | USA Weightlifting Sport Performance Coach

Jeff started in the fitness industry in 2009 where he began as a personal trainer at the Buffalo Athletic Club. Jeff has worked with a wide range of clients in all fitness levels over the years. He also served as the Strength and Conditioning Coach at Sweet Home High School from 2014-2017 where he worked with student athletes individually as well as sports teams.

Jeff was introduced to CrossFit in 2012 when he fell in love with the intensity, Olympic weightlifting and the constantly varied programming that CrossFit entails. He is always striving to make himself better as an athlete and to continue his education to help his members and clients reach their full potential, which is the most rewarding aspect of coaching at Harborside.

Jeff has a strong competitive nature, which is why he is so drawn to CrossFit. He has been involved in numerous CrossFit competitions as an individual as well as with teams. Jeff also enjoys running and is constantly involved in local races. Aside from running 5k races competitively, Jeff has also completed half marathons and triathalons. Being active is a big part of Jeff’s life as he enjoys pushing himself to be a better athlete, and pushing members and clients towards their goals.

Ashley Sleap

CrossFit Level 2 Coach

More about Ashley Sleap

Phil Smith

CrossFit Level 2 Coach

More about Phil Smith

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What OUr MEmbers Say

Discover what our community has to say about their experiences at our facility. Read our client testimonials to see how we've helped individuals across Western New York achieve their fitness goals and build a stronger, healthier future.

"Good place, solid coaching. Dropped in here while on a business trip. Would definitely recommend. The people here were friendly and the WODs were tough.  Coaching was solid and properly attentive. Boss location too. It's built into an older building, which is a interesting change of pace (even from my awesome home gym) from the typical industrial warehouse locations typical of CrossFit."

Gregory

"Been a Harborside member for almost two years. great coaches, great community. if you're looking for something more out if your workouts or just starting out stop by and check it out."

Nicholas

"Do your homework and you'll find this is the best gym for crossfit in Buffalo. Great venue, incredible coaches, and workouts that will have you breaking a sweat before you get to the locker room."

Jonathan

"I have been dropping into Harborside CF for a couple years now when I  travel to the Western NY area, which is typically about 2-3 times per year.  This is an excellent box and one that I would highly recommend checking out.  The coaches are extremely welcoming, knowledgable, and professional and have built a great community at Harborside.  I've always felt welcomed in this box and really enjoy the Saturday partner WODs."

Devin