Derek VanderRoest is originally from the suburbs of southeast Michigan. He has been involved in athletics for most of his life including track, swimming, and karate as well as weightlifting and hiking. Derek also served in the U.S. Marines for 7 years. After graduating #1 in his PTA class in 2010, Derek moved to Arizona and has been working at Center for Physical Excellence ever since. Derek has several certifications in exercise and kinesiotaping from the Gray Institute and ROCK tape company respectively. He also works as a personal trainer with advanced certifications in strength and conditioning as well as sports nutrition.