As F3 Wellness Connections continues to grow, we want to maintain our personal connection between our team members and clients. So, we’re posting a series of getting-to-know-you style Q&As, to show you what’s behind our passion for wellness. 

Next up: Danny Lamas, head trainer and Hardstyle Kettlebell Instructor. With a bachelor’s degree in political science from George Washington University, Danny is ready to take on DC. But not in the political arena. He’d rather help its residents get in shape, by training them through the efficiency of full-body kettlebell workouts to improve their functional strength and total fitness. Whether he’s hanging out at the Wharf or in Georgetown, taking in some live music, or enjoying some down time on his Nintendo Switch, Danny enjoys the total wellness gained through kettlebell training and helps his clients achieve their wellness goals every day.

So, how did Danny get where he is today and what drives his passion for kettlebell training?

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Miami, Florida, until I was 14, and spent my high school years in Phoenix, Arizona, where my parents live now. Both hot places!

What is one of your favorite childhood memories?

Christmas Day at Magic Kingdom in Disney World.

Tell us a few things you love to do in your time away from work.

I enjoy live music a lot, so I definitely love seeing concerts and shows as often as possible. Over the past few weeks, I’ve seen Troye Sivan at The Anthem and Years & Years at the Lincoln Theatre. I also love video games so, more often than not, you’ll find me curled up on the couch playing my Nintendo Switch when I have downtime to relax.

Where is your favorite place to spend time around D.C.?

Anywhere near a waterfront! I love Georgetown, the Wharf and Old Town Alexandria.

What inspired you to begin training with kettlebells? When?

After I read Tim Ferriss’ book “The 4-Hour Body” in 2011, I was looking for kettlebell-specific training and came across Glenn Seth and (then) Studio F3. I was hooked ever since. 

What then inspired you to be become a kettlebell instructor?

I’m paraphrasing good advice I received here, but I’ve always believed that the best way to master a skill is to learn to teach it yourself. It keeps me motivated and I can help others grow stronger and reach their own goals, too. 

What training or kettlebell certifications do you hold?

Hardstyle Kettlebell Certification (HKC)

What do you do for your “day job?”

I work for Apple as a lead sales expert. One of the most rewarding parts of the gig is helping grow our small business community in the DC area and working with everyone from small technology startups to government agencies.  

What are some of the benefits of kettlebell training that people should know about?

The key benefit for me has always been the simplicity. Kettlebell training impacts the whole body with something as simple as a two-handed kettlebell swing. Whether someone wants to train for purely aesthetic reasons or to challenge themselves and build functional strength, it is one of the most efficient ways to train multiple muscle groups and burn calories.

What do you say to people who are curious about kettlebell training but are too intimidated to get started?

I was too! Most good gyms have good kettlebell equipment now, and there are a lot of good instructional videos online from trainers who know their stuff. But to minimize risk of injury and set yourself up for success with proper form, having a certified instructor or a trainer guide you at first is the best way to begin. 

Favorite food:

Any Cuban dishes. I love ropa vieja (shredded beef with vegetables).

 Favorite “cheat food”:  

Ice cream 

Coffee, tea, or neither?

Both! I love Swings Coffee in Alexandria. 

Tell us a little about your family:

I have a pretty large extended family. My cousin Jesse lives here in DC, my parents are out in Phoenix, Arizona, more cousins out in Denver and Chicago, and the rest of the family is in Miami where I grew up. My dad has one sister and my mom grew up with seven brothers and sisters.

What attracted you to working with F3 Wellness?

I’ve trained and worked with Glenn Seth for more than five years and I’m excited to see how his approach to total wellness continues to grow.

If you could meet one historical figure, who would it be?

Theodore Roosevelt

Favorite TV show or movie series to binge watch:

Anything Star Wars 

Favorite music to work out to: [and favorite to listen to when cruising around town]:

The album “Southern Air” by Yellowcard for both!