Hometown: Memphis, TN (moved to Austin from Atlanta)
When and why did you come to Austin?
I came to Austin in January 2023. I came because I was presented an opportunity to intern at Kollective to train college football players for the NFL Draft Combine and train NFL players during off-season, as well as work with a couple of college basketball players preparing for the NBA Draft.
What is your background? How did you get into personal training?
A few things that got me into personal training are: I played basketball in high school, and that started my weight training journey. I enjoy health and wellness. This is what jump started my interest in my desire to help others become the best version of themselves they can be.
Originally, I wanted to become a Sports Physical Therapist and work with athletes as well as the general population. This led me to become a Physical Therapy Tech, and while working as a tech I took some of the exercises and incorporated them into my own workouts. After not getting into Physical Therapy school, I continued to work as a tech, but also started to learn more about strength training. I interned in various settings to learn more about the sports medicine field and strength training in order to be the best trainer I could be for my future clients.
Tell us about your current fitness goals and training.
Currently, I am aiming to become stronger, increase mobility, and improve my cardiovascular endurance.
What is the most common fitness myth you work through with your clients?
More sweat equals a better workout. Although sweat will likely drip during an intense workout, other factors need to be considered – for instance, the conditions in which you’re exercising.
Sweat occurs in an effort to regulate your body’s core temperature. While it does indicate your body is burning more calories, this process will eventually stop and continuing to push may lead to fatigue.
What do you want your clients to take away from each training session with you?
I want them to know I am here to train them, but most importantly teach them. I want them to know what we are doing and why we are doing it. Also, to know what works for them, everything we do is TAYLORED to their goals. With adequate training knowledge, the goal is for them to know what works for them during our sessions and beyond.
What sets you apart from other fitness professionals?
I am a servant leader. I strive to put the needs of others first and help them develop and perform at the highest caliber possible. Taking what I have learned from all of the people I have worked under, none of them made leadership seem like a dictatorship. This helps grow the relationship between clients and peers. I am dedicated to becoming a better trainer/coach to develop the tools needed to help others.
My mentality is, you can never stop learning. I believe in the phrase, “If you’re the smartest person in the room, you are in the wrong room.” This is because there is always room for improvement. In this profession, new studies are being published often. Also, there are numerous individuals who may specialize in an area that you may lack in; therefore, learn from them.
How do you, personally, define success?
Personally, I believe success is how you feel about yourself when accomplishing a goal you have set.
Favorite quote and who said it?
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Who is your hero & why?
My mother. She is the GOAT. She has overcome numerous obstacles to get where she is today. She is a true go-getter. Her drive to get things done and make things happen is second to none.
Follow Daniel on IG: @taylored.performance