DANIEL

What sparked your desire to become a personal trainer?
What sparked my desire to become a strength and conditioning coach is simple: I wasn’t the most talented athlete. But in the weight room, talent didn’t matter. Everyone had to put the work in to improve, and that environment showed me the power of effort, consistency and discipline. That’s why I coach—to help others develop those same habits, not only in training, but in life.

What is your fitness background?
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from CMU. I’ve worked in Division I strength and conditioning programs at the University of Oregon, the University of Wyoming and Georgia Tech primarily training football athletes while also working with teams such as swimming, softball, track and field, and baseball. At Sanford Power in Bismarck, North Dakota I trained high school and youth athletes across a wide range of sports, gaining experience developing athletes at every level. 

What is the best or most valuable exercise in the gym?
The squat. It develops total-body strength, mobility, and coordination while teaching proper movement patterns that transfer to both athletic performance and daily life.

What is your favorite movie?
The Lord of the Rings trilogy and Star Wars—the originals and prequels only. We don’t talk about the sequels.

What is the most important book you’ve read?
Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven. It fits perfectly with both training and life—showing how discipline, consistency and attention to the small things create long-term success.

What is your top hobby or passion outside of the gym?
Outside of the gym I enjoy shooting, collecting Pokémon cards, watching football, and most importantly spending quality time with my wife, Rachel, and my daughter, Lucy.