About Me

Thom began his athletic journey with track and field at his local sports club, later adding basketball to his pursuits. During a trip to the United States to explore college scholarships, he was struck by the notable differences in physical education and development compared to the Netherlands.

Starting university, Thom decided to become the trainer, coach, and mentor he had always wanted, with the aim of supporting young athletes in their progression to professional performance levels.

His journey led him to StrongFirst, where he earned his SFL certification in Vicenza at the age of seventeen. By the time he was nineteen, he became a StrongFirst Elite instructor. He is currently certified as an SFG I and SFB instructor.

During this time, he received the remarkable opportunity to work as a strength and conditioning coach for the Dutch Women's Heavyweight Eight rowing team, known as Project 2020. He coached the team until his move to Switzerland two and a half years later.

Having completed a degree in Neuroscience, Thom is now an active researcher in Zürich, focusing on sleep, brain health, and the neuroscience of learning. Outside work, he spends his weekends climbing mountains, trail running, teaching strength classes, and offering in-person and virtual one-on-one sessions.

StrongFirst taught him the impact of purposeful training, the power of community, and that a student mindset should be at the heart of all you do.

Follow him on Instagram at @thomvdermeer