Weekend Reading

How the Celebrity Trainer Starts His Day

Waking up and working out with Akin Akman

Akin Akman doesn't seem to have an “off” switch. This is a guy that hits the ground running everyday and it just seems wired into his DNA. Widely considered the world's #1 group fitness coach, Akman's fitness journey began earlier on as a tennis prodigy. By the age of seven, he was training at the world renowned IMG Academy and eventually channeled all his years of training into creating the signature AARMY Method.

Based on an authentic world-class athlete training philosophy, he says the method is “dedicated to constant progress and unlocking your ultimate potential.” Now, in addition to the people in his classes, he's leading workouts for such big brands as lululemon. How does he do it? Cranking out upwards of 45 hours a week of cycling and bootcamp, along with building a growing fitness empire? We got up early and caught up with him to see if any of that motivation would rub off.

My Routine

But I still prioritize sleep.

I try to get at least six hours, but aim for seven or more hours of sleep, when I can.

I set my alarm clock. Just to be safe.

But, at this point, I don't necessarily use it. And no offense to the snoozers out there, but I have never hit the snooze button in my entire life.

I keep my nightstand pretty simple.

At the moment there are a few books I'm looking through and a journal for notes and ideas. And a plant.

I always make my bed.

Really! It's a great daily habit and it starts your day off with a small win.

The first notification I usually check on my phone ...

Has to be Instagram. Do you follow @AARMY?

The first person I usually speak to ...

Is probably my aunt or my grandma.

But the first thing I do, without fail, in the morning ...

Is hop in the shower to wake up my body and mind.

Honestly, I don’t do anything more to mentally prepare for the day.

I'm always ready to go.

But I do appreciate a good coffee.

I drink iced coffee with a little milk. Everyday. For breakfast, if I'm training, I'll have hard-boiled eggs, oatmeal or maybe just a banana before.

Then I jump into work.

I immediately start working, checking in with the team and making sure I understand the day's schedule.

But I don’t always get to email.

I tend to answer my email when I get to it. I don't rush it.

I naturally like working out in the morning.

It really sets the tone for the day and makes sure you get it in and it doesn't escape you. Consistency is important when it comes to training.

Speaking of consistency ...

I don't really have any days off. There's always something to do, right.

I’m not a skincare junkie, but I have my routine.

I sometimes get facials and appreciate products with sleek branding. And then, I take a few supplements: a standard multivitamin, some electrolytes to stay hydrated throughout the day, omegas and magnesium.