Dr. Mitch Nienhuis is a coach, educator, and lifelong student of human performance who loves helping personal trainers grow into confident, capable professionals. With over 10 years of experience in the fitness and performance industry, Mitch brings a unique blend of academic knowledge and real-world coaching to every workshop. He holds a Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology with a focus on biomechanics and applied physiology, but just as importantly, he’s spent years training clients, leading teams, and mentoring new personal trainers in gyms, university settings, and sport performance facilities.

Mitch holds multiple advanced certifications, including Master Trainer and Certified Strength Coach (NCSF), Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (NSCA), and USA Weightlifting Sport Performance Coach. He has developed and led personal training workshops, staff education programs, and continuing education courses that focus on making complex topics simple, applicable, and meaningful for trainers working with clients every day.

Currently, Mitch serves as the Head Strength Coach and Director of Sport Science for the Grand Rapids Rise, a professional women’s volleyball team, and as a faculty member at Grand Valley State University, where he teaches exercise science and strength and conditioning. He loves combining science, coaching, and teaching to help both athletes and personal trainers achieve their full potential.

In his workshops, Mitch focuses on what really matters — how to assess clients effectively, create results-driven programs, and build lasting relationships. His style is interactive, practical, and aimed at helping trainers leave not just certified, but prepared and excited to make an impact.