Derek’s journey into personal training began 8 years ago. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Eastern Washington University in 2012. Under the guidance and supervision of his professors, he learned fitness testing, programming, and exercise technique. After graduation he worked for a private physical therapy clinic in 2013 in his hometown in Newport, Oregon. Derek also returned to his high school hobby of running.

In 2015, a foot injury motivated Derek to join the world of Crossfit. Not only did he fall in love with the technical movements and gains he made from the program, he enjoyed the sense of community. Derek got his level 1 and became a trainer soon after. He went on to assist in the development of the “New You” program at his local Crossfit gym. For three years, the “New You” program trained 60 clients, young and old to lose body fat, and gain strength to take back their lives. In 2017, Derek certified in the CrossFit self-defense program to aid his clients with fear management techniques. To further hone his skills in coaching, program design, and movement cues, Derek obtained his Crossfit level 2 certification in 2018.

Today, Derek continues his path of personal training by becoming a certified personal trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. He hopes to reach out to new clients and help them excel with whatever goals they may have and build some good connections along the way!