From time to time, Andy and I mention the names of a few people in class who are OUR coaches. When I mentioned Coach Glassman, the creator of CrossFit, in one of my classes today, I realized you guys may not actually know very much about these people. I wanted to share a little of their stories, because I admire them greatly as coaches and know them as amazing people.

First and foremost is Coach Glassman, referred to in the CrossFit community quite simply as "Coach." Glassman is the man responsible for creating CrossFit, and along with his wife Lauren, growing it into what it has become today. His background is in gymnastics, but he is well versed in many sports and in the scientific aspects of fitness. Whenever I am around Coach, I get the sense he is constantly gathering and analyzing information - about people, fitness, and business. He took an idea that began back in the 1970s and grew it into what CrossFit has become today. I think there are much bigger things in store in the future, as well. Glassman is also very inspiring on a philosophical level. Coach is a compelling speaker and I have had the pleasure to hear him speak on many occasions at various CrossFit Seminars. Even hearing the same speech repeated was enjoyable and I always got a little something new each time. I would recommend checking out the video section on CrossFit.com and listening to some of the lecture excerpts.

One of the best articles Coach wrote was on the idea of "virtuosity" - it's a short article, but motivating. Check it out: CF Journal - Virtuosity

Another "Coach" that is mentioned is Coach Burgener - CrossFit's Olympic Lifting expert. I remember distinctly the first time I met Coach B. It was at a CrossFit Certification Seminar, back in 2005. He walked in wearing a sleeveless shirt, camo pants and sporting a shaved head. He's a big guy and rather intense looking. He pretty much silently screams MARINE when you see him. I remember thinking, "Oh crap, what are we in for?" I would soon discover that beneath the Marine exterior was a big teddy bear -- and a phenomenal coach. Not only is Coach B a great coach, but you can tell that he loves what he does and he loves each and every one of his students. Coach B is retiring soon from teaching high school physical education. It always amazed me that someone of his caliber, who has coached Olympic caliber athletes, devoted his time to teaching high school kids. And what lucky high school kids to be exposed to a wonderful sport at a young age! Coach B's son, Casey, and future daughter-in-law, Natalie, both recently made the Olympic team headed for Beijing - so be sure to root for them during the Games!

Check out Coach B's website for more info on Olympic Lifting - Mike's Gym

Coach Rippetoe teaches CrossFit's Barbell Certification seminars and is easily one of the funniest people on the planet. Recently there was a whole message thread on the CrossFit.com discussion forums dedicated to "Rippetoe quotations." His dry southern sense of humor is just icing on the cake of his being a great coach. Rippetoe has a really sharp eye and is generous with his suggestions. He shares a quality with Coach Burgener of making a student feel, no matter what level they are at, that they have potential to do something great, and he seems equally excited at both small and large accomplishments. Rippetoe is also the author of a great book on lifting. I would highly recommend it to any and all CrossFit students - Starting Strength

For more info on Coach Rippetoe, check out his website - Wichita Falls Athletic Club