Derek Leong

Born and raised in the Bay Area, Derek grew up playing soccer and running track.  He later attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.  Oh yeah, he also met his wife there.  Hint: She’s a trainer here, too.  Though he has held a wide variety of occupations, from ice cream scooper to copier salesman, Derek is now a firefighter with the City of Manteca.

Previously an avid globo-gymer, he was introduced to CrossFit by his college roommate.  Due to his love of preacher curls, bro-ing out with his friends, and not getting much done in his 2-3 hour gym sessions, Derek was reluctant to try something new.  He found CrossFit Excel in 2010 and dropped in on a Saturday.  His first experience was memorable, he was hooked and never looked back.

Derek loves the community aspect of CrossFit, where people with different abilities and from all walks of life can support each other and work side by side to better themselves.  He has witnessed, experienced and truly believes that the benefits of CrossFit are life-changing. What he finds especially gratifying is helping members achieve personal growth, both physically and mentally, as they gain strength and confidence.

CrossFit Level 1
CrosFit Movement and Mobility
USA Weightlifting Level 1 Sports Performance