In that opportunity life and style had the opportunity to talk with them and have some impressions of this moment that fitness is experiencing in Mexico and the world.
Life & Style. How do you perceive the fitness community after the isolation that Covid demanded?
Akin. I feel like the fitness community is now more appreciative, more open, more eager and excited to move forward. The community can also make the connection that exercising isn’t just physical, it could help recondition the mind.
L&S. What is the most determining factor to start a life of fitness?
Yavuz. Emotion! And the conviction to change your mentality towards your own body.
L&S. How was it for you to start your lifestyle with sports? Where did this first impulse come from?
Akin. I started playing tennis at 5 years old and then went to the world renowned tennis academy at 7 years old. My parents and coaches saw it in me. That’s how it all started and I found out what this I wanted to do and be.
L&S. What is the most common mistake you see when someone starts training?
Akin. Be expecting instant gratification and immediate results. This is a long-term commitment, this requires commitment and discipline.
L&S. Now there are many training disciplines (cycling, boot camp, functional) How is it that one should choose between these alternatives?
Yavuz: It depends on your goals. The sport you play will dictate how your body transforms. There are those who prefer to have a bulky body with prominent muscles or those who prefer toning and agility. Each of these will create a different profile for you.
Do more of the things that make your whole being smile.
L&S. We know you guys go on big tours with your workouts. What do you notice that now people are finding good health, good body or just releasing stress with exercise?
Akin. There is a bit of all this in the exercise. But I think people should use fitness as a way to find and nurture their fullest expression. Ultimately this is about your body and who you are.
L&S. People talk about exercise as a therapy. Is that functional?
Yavuz. Life is movement, everything is always moving. Daily practice or daily exercise is setting aside time for yourself. To heal you, discover you, strengthen you and make you grow. It can be a transcendent state of being a changing guided experience.
L&S. We would all like to have a coach like you. What should I see in a coach to see him as reliable?
Akin. A coach must know the importance of his attention and sense of service. I really love to help and guide people. It is important to be passionate and caring about this job. A coach must be present and constant, lead by example. You have to be present.
Be constant, stick to a goal for your future… don’t forget everything is one day at a time!
L&S. It’s not all about exercise, right?
Akin. No, no, not at all, food is fuel. Perhaps the most important part, since here comes the source of energy to achieve these exercises and the resources to recover and do it once again.
L&S What would be the recommendations for someone who wants to join the fitness life?
Yavuz. Just get started, take actionable steps. You can start slow. Do your best. Always do your best, even if it isn’t much at first. Be constant, stick to a goal for your future… don’t forget everything is one day at a time!
L&S. You are professionals, but coming from New York at sea level, is it so hard to train at the height of Mexico City?
Akin. Honestly, I thought it could have been worse! It didn’t take me long to adapt, although I did about 8 or 9 sessions a day in New York before coming to Mexico City. My usual training schedule is around 35-45 sessions a week. It takes a bit of work, but these are things that you notice with preparation like this.
L&S. After being in CDMX with this platform. What message do you give to all the new people looking for exercise?
Both of them. My message would be to find what makes you come alive! Do more of the things that make your whole being smile. More of the things that connect your mind, body and soul that allow you to move and function with ease.