Behind Every Rep: Laser Therapy, Mindset & the Making of a 7x CrossFit Games Athlete

In this dynamic episode of Proven Health Alternatives, I'm joined by 7x CrossFit Games athlete Bethany Flores and performance coach Randy Flores for a wide-ranging conversation that bridges athletic training, nutritional science, and holistic wellness.

We explore Bethany's evolution from competitive bodybuilding to elite CrossFit, and how diverse athletic foundations—like gymnastics and strength training—have uniquely shaped her competitive advantage. She opens up about overcoming chronic back pain, the mental and physical toll of injury, and how laser therapy, strategic rehab, and personal support became crucial to her recovery.

Randy shares his approach to training high-performance athletes—including his work with the Los Angeles Lakers—with key takeaways on energy system optimization, posterior chain strength, and training intensity balance.

Bethany also offers a vulnerable and empowering look into her journey with eating disorders, gut health struggles, and the nutritional strategies she uses to sustain elite performance—reminding us that looking fit doesn't always mean functioning optimally.

Whether you're a competitive athlete, health enthusiast, or practitioner, this episode delivers a wealth of insights on building a body—and a mindset—that lasts.

Key Takeaways:

• CrossFit requires a strategic understanding of mixed energy systems for optimal performance.

• Bethany's diverse athletic journey showcases the importance of foundational bodybuilding and gymnastics in CrossFit success.

• Managing chronic back injury involves an integrated approach including laser therapy, postural restoration, and varied training intensity.

• The role of a comprehensive nutritional strategy is crucial for maintaining gut health and supporting elite athletic performance.

More About Bethany & Randy Flores:

Bethany Flores is a 7-time CrossFit Games athlete whose journey through elite sport is a testament to grit, adaptability, and holistic resilience. Her athletic roots began in competitive gymnastics at age 5, later branching out into endurance racing, obstacle course competitions, and amateur bodybuilding before discovering her passion for CrossFit. Bethany has faced and overcome chronic back issues that nearly ended her career—emerging stronger through cutting-edge therapies, mental fortitude, and a commitment to smart, sustainable performance. Now based in Los Angeles, Bethany continues to compete at the highest level while championing long-term wellness and balanced living.

Randy Flores, Associate Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Los Angeles Lakers, brings a wealth of experience in high-performance athletic development. From working closely with NBA legends to coaching everyday athletes, Randy's approach blends strength, power, mobility, and longevity-focused training. He's known for customizing strategies that optimize performance while minimizing injury risk—tailoring his work to meet the demands of both elite sport and long-term health.

Together, Bethany and Randy represent the fusion of elite competition, scientific training, and real-life wellness—sharing their unique insights into performance, recovery, and thriving in the face of challenge.

• Bethany's Instagram
• Randy's Instagram
• YouTube

Connect with me!

• Website

• Instagram

• Facebook

• YouTube
  
  

This podcast is sponsored by Erchonia Corporation®. They are the global leader in low-level laser technology, pioneering over 22 FDA market clearances for non-invasive laser treatments. With three decades in business, Erchonia has revolutionized laser therapy for various medical fields, including dentistry. Their advanced laser technology helps reduce inflammation, accelerate tissue repair, and improve patient comfort—all without drugs or invasive procedures. Whether for TMJ disorders, post-op healing, pain relief, or soft tissue management, Erchonia lasers provide clinically proven, safe, and effective solutions to enhance patient outcomes and streamline dental procedures. Trusted by healthcare professionals worldwide, Erchonia continues to set the standard for innovation in laser therapy.

Visit www.erchonia.com to learn more!