About Garret

Garret Jansen is a health and fitness enthusiast who has been serving the SISU Community since 2020. Since childhood Garret has always been passionate about sports which led him to pursuing his dreams of playing college football. Originally from Iowa, Garret ended up playing defensive line at the University of Iowa where he was learning from the direction of one of the best strength and conditioning programs in the country. His experience as a football athlete also sparked his journey towards learning about the importance of nutrition for both athletes and non-athletes alike.

Upon graduating from Iowa, Garret finished his football career and started his Masters Degree in Speech Pathology at Minnesota State, Mankato. During this time he also married the love of his life, Hannah. Once finished with his playing career Garret wanted to find a method of exercise that allowed him to stay strong while losing weight and had a sense of TEAM/community. Hannah suggested that he try CrossFit, so he signed up for a free week trial at SISU and hasn’t looked back since. Shortly after beginning his journey he began coaching. Since then he has served CrossFit classes, high school athletes, high school TEAMS, and individuals through personal training.

In addition to coaching in the fitness realm, Garret has also been serving as a nutrition coach under the direction of Christina McCarthy and SISU Nutrition since 2023. Garret believes that nutrition is the foundation to success for healthy living and increased athletic performance. Garret has a passion for serving young athletes and equipping them with knowledge and understanding of fueling their bodies and stewarding them through exercise. Garret has worked with hundreds of individuals from ages 13-65 to help them create healthy nutritional habits that lead to a sustainable lifestyle.

I CrossFit because…

I love CrossFit because it allows me to build strength and endurance with other resilient humans in order to live the healthiest lifestyle I can for myself and my family. The community and constantly varied movements keep me coming back.

Athletic Experience

  • 4-sport athlete in high school (football, basketball, track & field, and baseball)
  • Defensive Lineman at Iowa (2015-2018)
  • Defensive lineman at Minnesota State University, Mankato (2019)
  • Half Marathon finisher (x2)
  • Marathon finisher
  • Half Ironman finisher
  • CrossFit Quarterfinals athlete

I coach because…

I love coaching because it is a platform to encourage and motivate others to be the best they can be. I strive to share the talents, knowledge, and abilities I have been given to benefit those around me.

Education/Training

University of Iowa (BA)

Minnesota State University, Mankato (MA)

CrossFit Level 1

Secret Ninja Movement

Backflip Burpee

Nemesis Movement

HSPU – any kind

Favorite Cheat Meal

Culver’s Bacon Butterburger with Cheese Curds and a 2-scoop Waffle Cone