Prior to joining the Flames, van Asten spent three seasons as the head strength and conditioning coach of the Los Angeles Kings, winning Stanley Cups in 2012 and 2014. He was also the head strength and conditioning coach and coordinator for Hockey Canada and the Canadian Sport Centre-Calgary, where he was part of the 2010 Olympic gold medal-winning women's hockey team. In addition, van Asten was fortunate to be a part of three world championship teams and 10 World Cup winners in hockey and luge.

At the University of Calgary van Asten earned a master of science degree in exercise physiology. He also holds a bachelor of science degree in life sciences and a bachelor of physical and health education degree from Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario. He holds the Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist credential from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).