30 Jan My ‘Why’
January 30th, 2026
It is often a difficult question to answer when asked: “Why you do what you do”, or “How on earth did you get started on that path?” It requires a little introspection and honesty to get to the real answer, a process which has similarities to the conversations I have with the clients with whom I work.
I will try and be as open and forthcoming here, as they are with me.
I was born and raised in north London to Nigerian parents, and reached my early twenties like many, without a clue of what I wanted to do for a living. I was fortunate to have influence in my life to encourage me to continue study in an area where I had a strong interest… hence my degree is in Sports Science.
It was at University that I first started coaching people – initially in martial arts, before broadening my scope to help people get stronger and/or lose weight. The early successes my first clients enjoyed were great, but what I remember is how much a physique change, or improvement in energy levels and/or strength affected an individual’s ‘whole self’.
How succeeding in a project like that would have positive effects which filtered into other, unexpected areas of their lives. It was this early reinforcement/job-satisfaction that led me to build my skills and forge a career in coaching.
Within a year of leaving University however, I was hit with a diagnosis for Crohn’s disease. The pre-diagnosis palaver, operation, and short stay in hospital lead to extreme weight loss, a knock in confidence and a young self-employed business in tatters. There was nothing else to do but take myself on as ‘a client’, and physically (and mentally) build myself back up, leaning on the support of loved ones, and applying the knowledge and advice I’d been coaching to others.
A big part of my ethos and approach has its roots in this time. Self-compassion, “knowing your ‘Why’”, and learning how to master the basics and consistently get those key foundations into your life are far more important than the ‘best’ nutritional strategy or training protocol. Three years after the diagnosis I completed my first marathon, and since then I have crossed the finish line of the 7-day 150-mile ultramarathon in the Sahara Desert.
I set out to help as many people as possible overcome the obstacles in their path, on the journey to becoming the best versions of themselves. Throughout my career I have mentored teams of trainers, and of course been a conventional trainer, looking after those who could attend our venue, by the hour.
The trouble with this approach is that you are limited by time, logistics and geography. In truth, many of you don’t need me there watching you do your thing for a full hour, a few times per week. Neither do you need (or want, I imagine!) me in your kitchen with a raised eyebrow and a bin-liner.
A glance at my testimonials with tell you that I’ve helped a wide range of people achieve all sorts of things… 25 years is a long time! But which group of people has seen the biggest and most life-changing shifts?
It’s been guys, in that ‘in-betweener’ zone of caring for kids as well as ageing parents, working long hours and maintaining a relationship. Guys with a lack of time for exercise, inconsistent eating habits, and low energy levels. Guys, normally dads, who want to be happier with their physique (especially waistline), consistently and automatically eat and drink the right amount for their goals, and have a system where they are working out efficiently, and seeing the results.
This is why I created the Lean Dad Project. A coach in your pocket who gets it, cutting out the noise, and fast-tracking you to a better physique, health and longevity.
I’m 50 this year and incredibly fortunate in many ways. I want to help as many dads as possible lose that fat, get their mojo back and feel strong, energetic and confident not just now, but in 20 years’ time.
When you’re ready, why not have a think about what that best version of you feels and looks like, and let’s have a conversation about how I can help you practice the habits and embrace new systems to get and keep you there.
Ayo Williams