The Coaches
>> our people
Head Coach - Michael Brown
- CrossFit Level 1 Certified
- CrossFit Kids Certified
- ACE Certified Personal Trainer
Michael Brown, was born and raised in Winterset, IA. Health and fitness have always been a part of Mike's life and he has cultivated that passion starting with being a four-sport athlete at Winterset High School. Upon graduating from the University of Iowa in 2002, Mike entered the United States Air Force where he spent the last six years as a member of the Elite Special Operations Unit known as Pararescue. Mike's physical and mental training; created such an impact on him that he wanted to find a way to bring that desire, goal-setting and sense of accomplishment to anyone interested in bettering themselves and living a healthier lifestyle. CrossFit Des Moines is a hybrid of Mike's experiences in athletic training and military influence. Together, this combination offers anyone, from the beginner to the serious athlete, a chance to see results in body, mind, and health.
Mike's passions are all the “Ladies” in his life, his wife Kelli takes the #1 spot. However after that it's a tossup for second place. So for convenience purposes I will list them alphabetically Annie, Christine, Diane, Elizabeth, Fran, Grace, Helen, Jackie, and Nancy. If these names don’t ring a bell then you need to learn more about CrossFit.
Check out the following link:
http://www.crossfit.com/cf-info/excercise.html#Girls
U.S. Air Force Pararescue - http://www.pararescue.com/
Favorite Quotes:
- "Never Quit"
- "The easiest day was yesterday"
Coach - Quentin Huisman
- CrossFit Level 1 Certified (April 2010)
Sport, exercise, and fitness are areas of high interest for Quentin. Doing your best and strong work ethic were fundamentals to his family, and he was able to channel these fundamentals into the sports arena. Quentin had the opportunity to play in two high school state football championships for Aplington-Parkersburg High School as well as the Division III football playoffs while attending Central College (Pella, IA). Quentin thoroughly enjoyed off season training where he found setting and achieving new goals was challenging yet rewarding.
Since college, Quentin has continued to stay active through participation in recreational sports leagues, completing the Dam to Dam 20k, and coaching high school athletes. He has been a CrossFit Des Moines member since Coach Mike opened in January 2010. As a CrossFit Coach, Quentin enjoys helping people improve their physical fitness and witnessing their progress and success with their fitness goals.
Dietitian - Sara Schwertfeger
- Registered & Licensed Dietitian
- Certified in Adult Weight Management
Sara Schwertfeger is a registered dietitian and lifestyle coach, servicing clients from all over the Midwest.
Sara was a successful and recognized runner for Iowa State University Track & Field team. While competing she was a NCAA regional and national qualifier as well as a leader for the team. Sara has continued this success with triathlons & marathons and is currently looking forward to the Boston Marathon, 2010.
Sara plans to soon become a certified USAT&F Coach as well as a CrossFit Certified Coach.
Sara's approch to Life and Sport is uniquley similar to that of Coach Glassman (CrossFit founder) in that Nutrition is the foundation and the key building block to developing one's self as an athlete.
Visit Sara's own site, here!






