I first met Daniel Morgan when I signed up to his HIIT session at Work It London with ClassPass. What first impressed me about Daniel, was his knowledge about nutrition and diet and his dedication to a vegan lifestyle. His passion for health and fitness is evident in his enthusiastic knowledge on the topics. His HIIT class was challenging, but doable and he was attentive and offered corrections and alternatives. The class was a great workout and I felt energised which led me to go to a one-to-one PT session with him. I can clearly see why Daniel has a loyal client list, which is growing and I could not recommend signing up to one of his classes more. Daniel was so inspiring to me, I decided to interview him and share his views with Healthy Living London’s readers…
What is HIIT at ‘Work It’ London? Tell us about a class with Daniel Morgan. . .
HIIT class at ‘Work It’ London, is a high intensity interval training class that takes place for 45 minutes. You can expect circuited station or group work using 80% of your maximum heart rate for 15-20 minutes broken down. The class is best for people short on time or people that want to burn loads of fat – you can burn up to 800 calories per class and keep burning for another 24-36 hours.
Where/when did your personal wellness journey begin?
I guess my fitness journey began when my mum took me to the playground. As long as I can remember I’ve been doing some sort of sport training or activity, starting with karate at the age of 4.
What do you love most about your job?
Helping people is what I love most about my job. When people reach targets or I can assist them in any way, it gives me a great sense of satisfaction.
What has been your biggest challenge so far?
I’d say to go against what I’ve been told by most people in my field. Most people in any specialised field go by what courses have taught them or what may be the easiest quick fix solution and not by scientific fact. For example eggs are the highest source of protein per gram is taught to 90% of PT nutrition courses but this is not true. Spirulina, for example, is a much better option.
What is your inspiration?
I try to find inspiration from everywhere, but my main inspiration would be the people I try to surround myself with – friends, family, training and work buddies.
Have there been any disasters/funny moments?
Never a dull moment when training a group or 1-2-1 sessions! Off the top of my head I can remember a day last week where I demoed an exercise and accidentally synchronised with the music. That prompted everybody to exercise to the timing of the music for most of the class! It was funny and a good workout… lol!
What can someone expect from a class with you?
Results, fun and all round well-being education.
Some people work out but don’t see the results they are expecting. What common mistakes do you see people making when it comes to their fitness?
Getting used to a routine and getting comfortable. After a while, your routine will become easier as you get used to it. You need to change your routine and shock your body so you can be progressive.
What are the advantages of incorporating HIIT training into your daily life and what are its effects on the female body?
I think HIIT is one of the best workouts to incorporate into your daily life as it is the optimal way to burn fat. 70% of my personal training is with women who I find, for the most part, like their bone structural shape and just want to lose the little bits of fat around it and HIIT is ideal for this.
What other types of exercise do you think compliments Work It?
At work it we have yoga, boxing and strength work classes also. I’d say boxing would be my favourite and 80% of the trainers have a real ‘in ring’ experience.
What is your own personal favourite workout?
Outdoor calisthenics as you can do so much with your body as far as movements and exercise variation.
What’s your perfect breakfast?
Always fruit as it eliminates the waste from your digestion tract. It’s easily digestible and very easy to make first thing in the morning. I always make sure i have variety, Yesterday I had Granadilla, Dragon Fruit and Papaya. Here’s a pic…
Granadilla, Dragon Fruit and Papaya
Do you have a favourite Pre or Post workout food/snack?
My favourite pre workout snack would be fresh coconut water, as it is filled with electrolytes and essential minerals. My favourite post work out snack would be spirulina as there is literally nothing with more protein in it on earth.
Who is your health/fitness/nutrition muse?
Dr Sebi, Wim Hof and Anthony Joshua.
Who has had a big influence on your life and what have they taught you?
My mum and dad have influenced me the most. My mum, who is a nutritionist, has cooked for autistic families for over 15 years and my dad has been a tree surgeon all his life. Both taught me so much about food, nature and how to make the most of them. This is why I have been a vegan for almost 3 years and I haven’t been sick in 4 years (not even a stuffy nose) and I am the first point of contact for lots of clients, friends and family when they are sick or in need of something holistic.
How do you manage your life/fitness/health balance? What advice would you give someone that struggles with this?
I prioritise my wellbeing first! If I notice I’m working too much I stop, if I haven’t been out on the town in a while I go out and if I’m being lazy I join gym buddies or classes for some extra motivation.
Where is your favourite London wellness spot (fitness/wellbeing/nutrition)?
A perfect wellness day in London for me would be… a green machine smoothie at Planet Organic, then a 30 min walk across Hyde Park to Wholefoods where I can shop and get a great plant based lunch before I walk through Holland Park to London spa in Kensington new pools.
If you had to recommend one inspirational book? (can be anything – nutrition/recipes/health/life)
The China Study by T. Colin Campbell. This book is the biggest study in nutrition in my opinion. It discusses its research about meat and dairy diets and how they have proven links to specific diseases. I recommend anyone interested in nutrition to read this book.
When you have an off (unhealthy) day (or days) how do you motivate yourself to get back on track?
I practise regular self-refection as I think it’s important to get the best version of you.
Do you have a motto or mantra that keeps you focused?
Some of my favourites are… ‘as above as below’, ‘no guts no glory’ and ‘is that you or your ego’.
What’s your ideal way to de-stress?
Jamaica! Need I say more?
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Chocolate cake.
One bit of advice you would give to HLL readers?
Live, love and laugh
Find Out More:
Instagram: @danielmorganpt @workitlondon
Twitter: @workitlondon
Facebook: @workitlondon
Daniel’s Email Address: danielmorganpt@hotmail.co.uk
Classes at ‘Work It’ are from £10 and are also available on ClassPass. Contact Daniel directly for information on his PT sessions.
*Health Advice: Consult with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
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