Part Two: From Martial Arts to Muscle, the training approach of Dan Mack

This blog is part two of our interview with Dan Mack

In this second instalment, Dan Mack explains how he’s combining martial arts with strength and conditioning to empower clients—especially busy parents and postnatal women. He also discusses launching his family-led fitness brand and the importance of confidence, consistency, and fun in training.

From the Dojo to Digital Coaching—Why Dan’s Approach Is Different

When Dan Mack first qualified as a personal trainer, he didn’t leave behind his martial arts roots. Quite the opposite—he’s blending the two worlds into something powerful and personal. For years, Dan taught kickboxing and martial arts, helping people of all ages build physical and psychological resilience. Now, he’s bringing those same principles into his personal training business—and the results speak for themselves.

“Confidence, not combat, is the most transferable skill from martial arts.”

Dan has already started working with clients from his kickboxing network. Some want to improve their conditioning, some want fat loss, and some simply want to feel stronger and more in control of their bodies. And as Dan’s discovered, martial arts training isn’t just about throwing punches. It’s about mental clarity, spatial awareness, and confidence that transcends the gym.

Fighting for Fitness: Why Everyone Wants to Know They Can Defend Themselves

There’s something primal about knowing you can protect yourself. Even if you never need to use it, the feeling of preparedness creates a calm confidence in daily life. Dan sees this all the time in his clients.

“It’s not about fighting. It’s about knowing your range, staying calm under pressure, and walking tall.”

This kind of self-assurance can be life-changing—especially for women, young people, or anyone who has ever felt vulnerable. And when Dan adds these elements to his online coaching, it gives his programme an edge.

Skip, Jump, Sprint: Functional Training for the Real World

Dan and his partner Lis train like athletes, but not just for the aesthetics. They incorporate speed, agility, quickness, plyometrics, and balance work into their own training—and encourage their clients to do the same. Their morning school run even includes skipping through the park, not for show, but for function.

“Skipping builds power through triple extension—hips, knees, and ankles. It’s fun and effective.”

This kind of thinking is typical of Dan’s approach. He’s all about giving people back the movement quality they’ve lost—without boring them with biomechanical lectures.

Strength and Conditioning for Life, Not Just Sport

Dan is currently completing his Level 4 Strength and Conditioning qualification with Storm Fitness Academy. While S&C is usually aimed at athletes, Dan sees its application for everyday life.

“Why aren’t more PTs using S&C methods for general population clients? Plyos, agility drills, explosive power… it’s all useful for life.”

He’s not wrong. Teaching an adult to skip, sprint, and jump safely doesn’t just improve performance—it protects joints, increases confidence, and builds longevity. These are not elite athlete goals—they’re life goals.

A Family That Trains Together…

Dan and Lis are more than business partners—they’re parents who walk the talk. They cook together, train together, and even study together. Their whiteboard at home is covered in goals—not just for them, but for their 11-year-old daughter and even their six-month-old son.

“Our little girl wants to be a footballer. So I’m doing my Level 4 to help her train smart and stay injury-free.”

When fitness is woven into the fabric of your family culture, it doesn’t feel like a task. It becomes your identity—and your legacy.

Launching Their Online Coaching Platform: CoachedFit

Their brand, CoachedFit, is all about making fitness flexible. It’s designed for busy parents, shift workers, and anyone who wants to improve their health without compromising their lifestyle.

Here’s what makes it different:

• Flexible workouts: Do them anytime, anywhere.

• Tailored plans: Designed for you, not copied and pasted.

• No-pressure accountability: Check-ins that motivate, not micromanage.

• Family-friendly vibe: You’ll see their real life in action—kids, chaos, and all.

“We’re here to prove that you don’t need perfect conditions to get in shape. You just need a plan that respects your reality.”

Empowering Women After Birth

Lis, who recently had a baby, is living proof of what CoachedFit offers. She’s in the best shape of her life, hitting new PBs in running and strength, and doing it all while being a mum and studying for her PT qualification.

“Six months after giving birth, she looks and feels amazing. And she’s now helping other mums believe they can do the same.”

Their online platform isn’t just a business—it’s a movement. A call to all parents: your fitness matters. Your health is worth fighting for.

Building a Fitness Culture, Not Just a Client Base

Dan and Liz want to create a culture where fitness isn’t intimidating—it’s inclusive, empowering, and deeply personal. And as their community grows, they’re attracting people who see fitness the same way: a tool for life, not just for looks.

Dan’s advice?

“Don’t wait for the perfect time. There’s no such thing. Start small. Start now. And do it for the right reasons.”

What We Can All Learn From Dan

Dan’s journey is inspiring, but it’s also replicable. You don’t need to be a martial arts instructor or have a perfect gym. You just need passion, consistency, and a willingness to learn.

If you’re a PT or aspiring coach, here’s what Dan Mack models:

• Leverage your unique background (like martial arts or parenting)

• Train yourself the way you’d want your clients to train

• Blend S&C principles into gen pop coaching for better results

• Build community, not just clientele

• Let your personal story inspire your professional brand

Watch on Youtube: From Martial Arts to Muscle, Dan Mack’s training approach

Listen to the Podcast: From Martial Arts to Muscle, Dan Mack’s training approach

Follow Dan and Liz

Their coaching platform will be launching soon at coachedfitt.co.uk. You can also find them on social media under @coachedfitt (just launched).

Whether you’re thinking about becoming a coach or just want some real-talk fitness advice, they’re always happy to chat. No hard sell. Just real support.

Why Not Start Your Own Journey like Dan and Lis?

If you’re passionate about fitness and want to turn it into a career—even if you’re juggling work, family, and life—Storm Fitness Academy can help. Learn more about our Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4 qualifications via our courses page.

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