Raj brings a unique combination of personal transformation, educational excellence, and professional insight to SISU. Growing up in a suburb of St. Louis, MO, he attended Washington University in St. Louis for both undergraduate and graduate studies. While in grad school, Raj met his wife, Richa, during a Bollywood dance performance at an Indian cultural event—a moment that sparked a lifelong partnership. In 2004, the couple moved to Minneapolis, intending to stay only a couple of years but falling in love with the area. Now residing in Eden Prairie, they share their home with their daughter..
Raj’s journey into fitness wasn’t straightforward. Although he participated in sports as a child, he didn’t view himself as athletic and lacked an understanding of how to balance nutrition and exercise. A turning point came years after college when he decided to take control of his health, initiating a fitness journey that eventually led him to CrossFit. Initially hesitant due to misconceptions about its intensity, Raj discovered CrossFit during a New Year’s promotion and found an inner athlete he never knew existed. This experience reshaped his perspective on fitness, teaching him the value of a holistic approach to health.
As SISU’s programming lead, Raj is responsible for overseeing all aspects of workout programming, ensuring that athletes of all levels are challenged, supported, and set up for success. His methodical approach and commitment to helping athletes achieve their goals make him an invaluable resource to the community.
As a coach, Raj is driven by a desire to help others uncover their potential and embrace their inner athlete. He aims to show people that CrossFit is more than just a workout; it’s a supportive community that builds strength, confidence, and resilience both inside and outside the gym. His own transformation and passion for fitness, combined with his expertise in programming, make him uniquely suited to guide others on their journeys. Raj’s love for the outdoors, no matter the weather, and his dedication to empowering others make him an essential member of the SISU team.
