About Deniz Ates

Growing up in the 90s and early 2000s, I was immersed in a pop culture rich with combat sports and martial arts. I remember the excitement around Mike Tyson vs Frank Bruno, the impact of ‘When We Were Kings’, and the gritty inspiration of Rocky Balboa. I was mesmerized by fighting games like 'Mortal Kombat', Bruce Lee films, and even martial arts literature, like 'The Art of War’ by Sun Tzu.

In 2005, 'The Contender,' hosted by Sylvester Stallone and Sugar Ray Leonard, sparked a new level of inspiration. For two years of university, I dedicated myself to boxing training alongside my studies, though academic responsibilities eventually led me to set boxing aside.

After graduation in 2008 and a few years of work, I resumed training at a local boxing club. In 2012, I seized an opportunity to volunteer as a trainer, pursuing certification under England Boxing. Obsessed with improving my padwork, I soon advanced to head coach after employment.

What began as a hobby became my career, and I consider myself fortunate to have found a path in the fitness industry. It's a privilege to be part of someone’s personal development, and I'm excited for what the future holds.

My previous role as head coach of a boxing gym ended during the pandemic. This convinced me to rely on my own knowledge and skills for security rather than an employer. I learned to reassess my values, my boundaries, and my future.

Thankfully, I had a foundation of knowledge and skills to contend with the uncertainty. I was highly experienced in the fitness industry, having worked as a boxing coach since 2012. My academic background in English Literature and Philosophy taught me to think critically about narratives and arguments. I also had a reliable network of friends and family.

I decided that I no longer wanted to rely on a gym. I thought, "If anyone can work as a mobile trainer, I can." I had the right experience to rebuild myself on my own terms. So, in 2021, I did.

What I like most about coaching is the opportunity to make a positive impact on someone’s life. I enjoy seeing people make the shift from 'I can't do that' to 'I can do that'. This shift while learning movement skills inspires, I believe, success in other areas of life.

I also enjoy the continuous learning that coaching provides. Every learner develops in their own way, making them teachers in their own right. This mutual process of teaching and learning has been fundamental to my growth as a coach.