About James McDermott
James McDermott holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology Fitness Development from SUNY Cortland. As part of his degree program, James interned at Albany CrossFit, where his passion for coaching quickly turned into a full-time career. Over time, he advanced to the position of Head Coach, where he has remained dedicated to coaching and fostering a strong community.
During his tenure at Albany CrossFit, James has guided athletes to compete in the CrossFit North East Regionals, earned the Certified CrossFit Trainer (CCFT/Level 3) credential, and has introduced countless beginners to CrossFit, helping them build a foundation in fitness and improving their quality of life.
In 2014, James founded the Albany CrossFit Barbell Club and later earned his USA Weightlifting Level 2 certification. His coaching achievements include producing a Masters National Champion, two Masters Pan American Champions, a Masters World Champion, and multiple New York State Champions. James is also a USAW National Technical Official and the President of the New York Weightlifting State Organization.
In addition to his coaching career, James is a co-author of several books, including The Dark Orchestra with Jon North, American Weightlifting with Glenn Pendlay, and Flexible Eating with Jason Ackerman.
Certifications
- USA Weightlifting Level 1 & 2
- Attitude Nation Level 1 & 2
- Glenn Pendlay Seminar
- Donny Shankle Weightlifting Seminar
- FuBarbell + The Training Geek: Biomechanical Concepts Applied to Weightlifting
- Jeff Wittmer Seminar
- Biomechanics of the Jerk Seminar
- Power Monkey Weightlifting
- Travis Cooper Seminar
- Enderton Strength Seminar
- Dmitry Klokov Seminar
- CrossFit Weightlifting Trainer
- CrossFit Level 1, 2, & 3 Trainer
- CrossFit Weightlifting
- CrossFit Mobility & Movement
- CrossFit Gymnastics
- CrossFit Endurance
- CrossFit Kids
- CrossFit Adaptive Athlete
- RockTape: Fascial Movement Taping (FMT) Level 1 & 2
- RockTape: Blades
- Rock Tape: Performance Movement Taping (PMT) Level 1
- Tactical Athlete: Kettlebell Workshop with Jeff Martone
- Rolling on the Floor Laughing: Mobility Workshop
- Punk Rope: Doubles or Nothing Workshop
- YMCA Healthy Lifestyles & Principles
- YMCA Strength & Conditioning
- Red Cross CPR Certified

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