RP Essentials is now available. Expert coaching over email starting at $349.99/month, or step up to Full Access Coaching for weekly calls, texting access, and the full RP toolkit.
Pro Powerlifting, Olympic Weightlifting, Strongman, Highland Games, Jiu Jitsu, Golf and Disc Golf competitor
Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) Certified Golf Fitness Instructor
Hobbies and Interests:
Jiu jitsu
Disc golf
Highland games
Playing/writing music
Golf
Why Choose Derek:
I have been coaching for RP for nearly a decade, combining my education in physiology with my experience breaking world records and a passion for improving the lives of my clients. My work ranges from helping individuals achieve weight loss and body composition goals to preparing some of the best athletes in the world for competition.
I grew up in North Carolina, where I developed a love for athletics and lifting weights at a young age. That passion quickly extended to helping others pursue their own goals. I’ve competed in multiple sports, specializing in powerlifting, where I was ranked 1st in the world for five years in squats, set an all-time world record (935 lbs at 181 lbs), and became the lightest person to ever squat over 1,000 lbs. After retiring from heavy lifting competitions, I now compete in Jiu-Jitsu, Highland Games, and Disc Golf.
As an athlete, I’ve always sought every possible competitive advantage, which led me to pursue an education in physiology and kinesiology. My goal was to discover the most effective and efficient methods for progress while minimizing injury risk. Now, that same knowledge and experience benefit my clients, allowing me to provide science-backed, practical coaching tailored to their goals.
Personalized weekly 20-minute sessions with your RP coach to ensure you’re progressing consistently and effectively.
Full Access Coaching Only
Exclusive Access to Digital Tools
Access to our apps, entire digital library of E-books, and templates to maximize your success.
24 Hour Response Time
Get your questions answered quickly. Coaches respond within 24 hours on business days, so you always know someone is in your corner. Applies to both tiers.
Customized to Your Needs
Whether you prefer macros, meal plans, or specific programming, our coaches tailor everything to suit your goals, preferences, and lifestyle. Apply to both tiers.
Two Plans, One Standard
Both tiers bring the same world-class coaches and the same evidence-based methods. Full Access Coaching adds a weekly Zoom call, text access, and the full RP toolkit for those who want a closer, more connected experience.
Derek Wilcox, a PhD in Sport Physiology & Performance, offers coaching expertise in various sports and fitness areas. His coaching style is positive, supportive, and educational, focusing on achieving measurable outcomes and personal growth. Clients appreciate his practical, realistic, and holistic approach, which balances ambition with achievable goals.
"Derek is an effective and knowledgeable coach" — George W.
"Derek is a super coach!" — Marcie
"What truly sets Derek apart is his genuine engagement." — Edward M.
Reviews
First class coach and training experience
"From our very first conversation, Dr. Derek took the time to really understand what I was trying to achieve and where I was starting from. Right after that intake call, he came back with a clear, customized plan covering both nutrition and workouts. He shared a library of demo videos, dialed in specific macro numbers for me, and walked me through the "why" behind every choice rather than just handing over instructions. Since then, he's stayed engaged at every check-in, quick to reply and always proactive about asking where he can lend more support. His feedback on my form has been priceless and unlocked my ability to show up consistently because I've remained injury free. I actually look forward to my sessions, and I've been getting stronger and visibly more ripped every month."
— Eric M. (5/5)
Professional Coaching with Personalized Attention
"Dr. Derek had a thorough initial conversation with me to assess my needs and goals, then quickly followed up with detailed guidance on both diet and training. He provided access to instructional videos, set specific macro targets, and clearly explained the reasoning behind his recommendations and approach. He's been consistently responsive and encouraging with each check-in, always asking how he can help. The new training program he designed for me has been great - I'm genuinely enjoying it and feeling confident in my progress."
— Sean T. (5/5)
Derek is great to work with.
"Working with Derek has redefined my training style and approach in dramatic ways, in what has been a very short period of time. Since starting our coaching in September, my body feels much better, and my consistency at the gym is at nearly perfect adherence, exactly the things that will really move the needle on the long term scale. Excited about what is ahead!"
— Anton T. (5/5)
Derek is an effective and knowledgeable coach
"Derek knows his stuff and is very clear about his intention to help you achieve your goal. If you are willing to be consistent and follow the plan he gives you, you will find that results are just as consistent."
— George W. (5/5)
Great Trainer
"Excellent coach - incredible focus on movement and technique which has helped me actually move weight. Hands on, always ready to chat - just what I need"
— S (5/5)
A Five-Star Training Experience with Derek
"Working with Derek has been a transformative experience, and I cannot recommend him highly enough. He is far more than a trainer; he is a true coach, partner, and guide on my fitness journey. Derek's communication skills are exceptional. He has a unique ability to break down complex concepts and explain the "why" behind every exercise and nutritional suggestion, making the entire process feel collaborative and understandable. His knowledge in the field is extraordinary, and he applies it to create a plan that is not only effective but also tailored to my specific needs and goals. This combination of clear communication and deep expertise instills a profound sense of confidence, not just in the plan itself, but in my own ability to achieve the results I'm striving for. What truly sets Derek apart is his genuine engagement. He doesn't just provide instructions; he listens intently to my concerns, patiently answers every question I have, and actively seeks feedback. He has guided me on how to improve my form, maximize the benefits of every workout, and make sustainable changes. Having Derek as my coach feels like having a secret weapon. His support and guidance are invaluable, and I am consistently impressed by his dedication and passion for helping his clients succeed."
— Edward M. (5/5)
One-On-One Coaching Derek Wilcox
"Working with Dr. Wilcox has been an excellent experience. For a year I struggled through lackluster results in both diet and exercise before finally making the decision to go with one-on-one coaching through RP Strength. I should have started much sooner. The in-depth knowledge in both weight lifting technique and diet as already yielded results in 2 months that I was struggling to produce on my own in 6 months to a year. This feedback on lifting form improvement alone is more than worth the value as this has been the game changer in terms of effectiveness. If you are struggling to achieve your goals and you are ready to apply yourself, this is the way to go."
— Paul H. (5/5)
Dr. Derick
"Dr. Derick has been professional and helpful. My age and circumstances are probably not his normal client. He is going out of his way to find things that work for my situation."
— Peggy W. (5/5)
You’re the CEO
"Derek has been awesome to work with. He is available through several social channels along with our weekly check-ins. The delivery of message is in a language I think even beginners can digest."
— Rashaad L. (5/5)
Communicative!
"Dr. Derek has already provided a wealth of knowledge and we are only a few weeks in. He responds quickly and takes interest in you as a person."
— Jams W. (5/5)
Q&A
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