Denzel Allen

Owner of Strength Den

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Denzel began his journey as a Physical Educator while attending the University of Connecticut. In the summer time before his Junior and Senior year of college, Denzel had an internship at a private fitness facility located in Mystic, CT. There he was able to learn a lot about coaching while also preparing for the season at UCONN where he played Division I football.

 

His focus on quality over quantity has helped many of the people he has coached to feel, move, and perform better than they had ever before. He has worked with a plethora of individuals ranging from grandparents to athletes. He has also coached hundreds of coaches at StrongFirst certifications and workshops. Denzel has been featured in publications such as MensHealth, GQ, and others. Also, Denzel has had his writing published on StrongFirst’ website many times covering strength and endurance. If you want to read some of his work click here.

 

Denzel graduated from UCONN with a Bachelors in Psychology and Sociology in 2012. Since graduating, he has kept an insatiable hunger for learning. Denzel has earned many certifications which include his FMS, Precision Nutrition Level 2 Master Coach, ACE personal trainer, StrongFirst level 1 and level 2 Kettlebell, StrongFirst Bodyweight, StrongFirst Lifter (barbell), DV8 Coaching and of course CPR/First Aid. Denzel has also learned from and worked alongside many physical therapists. He believes we are all lifelong students, we have the ability to change and grow at any age.

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Recap of notable accomplishments

• StrongFirst Team Leader (2018-2020)

• DV8 Fitness Coaching certified Instructor

• StrongFirst Kettlebell Instructor

• Certified FRC Mobility Specialist

• Precision Nutrition Level 2 Master Coach

• Former Collegiate athlete at UCONN (University of Connecticut) and University of Rhode Island

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Michael Salas

MS,CSCS, TSAC-F, USAW-1, USATF-1, EXOS-XPS, DV8 Kettlebell Coach

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Since earning his master's degree in exercise physiology from San José State University in 2024, Michael has stayed up to date with the latest innovations by continuing his education through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, USA Weightlifting, USA Track and Field, and EXOS Sports Performance. To be as well-equipped as possible when helping clients, Michael continues to take courses in sports performance, strength training, performance psychology, and sports science testing/ tracking methods.

 

Michael has obtained valuable experience working as a Strength Coach since 2018;  during this time, he has worked in two gyms, completed an internship with Strength Den MV in 2021, and completed an internship with the University of California, Berkeley Football Program in 2023, where he focused on strength and conditioning, athlete tracking and testing, and athlete return to play methods. Having successfully helped future NFL athletes and people walking into a gym for the first time, Michael’s skill and understanding have been tested and applied at every level. He brings the same care, knowledge, and effort to each client who comes to Strength Den, whether it is your first session or your 100th.

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Notable Accomplishments

• Masters in Exercise Physiology Specializing in Strength and Conditioning (2024)

• Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach Through the National Strength and Conditioning Association

• Certified Tactical Strength and Conditioning FacilitatorThrough the National Strength and Conditioning Association

• USA Weightlifting Level 1 Coach

• USA Track and Field Level 1 Coach

• EXOS Performance Specialist

• DV8 Fitness Certified Kettlebell Coach

 

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Courtney Gaiman

BA, MS, CCLS

 

Courtney's athletic background began with a love for jump rope in 1st grade and evolved to earning four years of varsity letters in field hockey, basketball and soccer in high school. She then played four years of Division I soccer at Marquette University as a defender.  At the end of her collegiate athletic stint, Courtney found herself feeling burned out on physical training and decided to hang up her cleats and other athletic pursuits "for good."

 

Fifteen years and two kids later, Courtney realized it was time to feel strong in her body and physically fit once again. She discovered the Strength Den in 2021 and was immediately drawn to Denzel's zen coaching style and the intimate environment. As a "regular" at the Strength Den, she is so grateful to have discovered a place that cultivates personal growth and wellness, Coaches that are both motivational and restrained, and a community that is fun and supportive.

 

Courtney is professionally certified as a Child Life Specialist and has worked in pediatric hospitals in the Bay Area to help children and their families cope while facing medical hardships.

 

As the Community Liaison, Courtney provides administrative and event-planning support with a focus on building community and connection for Strength Den members. She feels very lucky to live in Mill Valley with her husband and two sons.

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