Biology alumnus turns personal experience into career motivation as a fitness professional

After dislocating his shoulder about 25 times during his first few weeks as a member of the Fighting Scot football team at The College of Wooster, Martin Danial ’05 was no longer medically cleared to play. Instead of tackling opposing players on the field, Danial spent the remainder of his first year tackling shoulder reconstruction surgery and the resulting rehabilitation. 

His hard work paid off. His shoulder healed, and Danial went on to play football throughout his time at Wooster. The biology major, who originally planned to go to medical school, also developed a new interest in injuries. 

“At first, I thought maybe I should go into physical therapy rather than medicine, but then I realized I didn’t want to work with people after they got hurt; I wanted to work with people before to help prevent injuries,” Danial said.  

Today, as co-owner/co-founder of EPIQ X Fitness and Performance, a gym in Bedford, Ohio, Danial strives to help individuals meet their fitness goals safely and effectively. He works with a range of clients, from athletes looking to take their game to the next level to children just beginning their fitness journey. He credits his time at Wooster with helping him learn how to interact with people from all walks of life.  

“I met people from all over the world just on the football team, let alone at all of Wooster,” said Danial, who was born in Egypt. “That played a big role in my life because it taught me how to listen and connect with others.” 

Ultimately, Danial is carrying on the liberal arts tradition of lifelong learning. “I remember Coach Schmitz, who was the head football coach when I was at Wooster, always said, ‘Once you think you’re through learning, you’re through,’” Danial said. “He was right. I’ve been in the field of coaching and training for 20 years now, and I’m still learning new things.” 

This feature originally appeared in the Spring 2025 issue of Wooster magazine.

Photo provided by Danial.

Posted in Alumni, Magazine on March 13, 2025.