Who is Coach K?

Tim Kauppinen aka Coach K

Tim Kauppinen, better known as Coach K to his athletes, has spent the better part of 24 years working in speed training, strength and conditioning.

Born in Wausau, Wisconsin, Tim began his athletic career at D.C. Everest High School participating in football, track and field and soccer. He also lived in the weight room and found success there, bench pressing 365 pounds as a Senior while weighing 165. Another personal best included a 230 pound power clean.

In track and field, the future Coach K, was an All-Conference performer in the 100 meter dash, 200 meter dash and 400 meter relay. His relay team set Wisconsin Valley Conference records and qualified for state in 1986 and 1987. Kauppinens coach named him the most improved athlete his senior year and called him the Iron Man of the team for sprinting in 13 races in 10 days - placing first or second in each one.

Kauppinen attended the University of Wisconsin - Madison and continued to powerlift through college, winning and placing in numerous natural bench press and powerlifting competitions around the state. His personal best in the bench press rose to 385 pounds at a body-weight of 180. He also put his strength and conditioning to use working as a bouncer, concert security specialist, and personal trainer to pay his way through college.

Graduating in 1992 with a BS in Secondary Education and a coaching emphasis, Coach K began teaching and coaching in and around the Madison area. In 1993, his first year of coaching, Kauppinen coached the State Champion in the girls 300 meter hurdles and the 4th place finisher in the boys triple jump. Over the next 9 years, he continued to coach track and football athletes to conference championships and state appearances.

Coach K continues his work in a consulting basis, working with athletes of all ages to improve their strength, speed and overall fitness. Kauppinen also continues to train and compete in sub masters competitions. He publishes a daily training email and blog on his website at www.makesyoufast.com and encourages everyone to sign up. Coach K has authored Uphill Fitness Training, The Vertical Velocity Fitness System, Ultimate Insider Speed Training Secrets, The Iron Shins Workout and a re-released version of Archie Hahns classic How To Sprint.

Kauppinen lives near Madison, Wisconsin with his wife Tammi and their five children. Three daughters: Kelsie, Kambria, Kiala and two sons: Kadon and Keion.