Speakers Bio

World-class athlete and best-selling author Kyle Maynard has never considered his physical differences to be a disability, but rather just another obstacle that cannot stop him from realizing his dreams.

On first sight, Maynard is obviously exceptional. He is a quadruple congenital amputee, which means that his arms end at the elbows, and his legs extend to just past his knees. His adamant refusal to accept the limitations of this condition, however, is what truly sets him apart. Maynard began his life in what he calls the "pursuit of normalcy," but his determination and unrelenting spirit carried him way past that goal to such unlikely places as competitive contact sports, The New York Times best seller list, and the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Maynard has been honored with an ESPY Award (2004 Best Athlete with a Disability) and induction into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. He has also found great satisfaction using his unique experience to help wounded soldiers adapt their exercise regimens to meet their particular fitness needs. In 2008, Kyle brought one of his oldest and most fervent dreams to life when he built and opened his first fitness center, No Excuses CrossFit.