Meet Coach Dan
(aka Handsdan )
Personal story & background
I was a regular in the ER every year for the first 26 years of my life. Broken bones, dislocations, and torn ligaments—you could say I was an adventurous kid. And if those weren’t enough, severe injuries from getting hit by a car at age 8, a burst appendix, chronic pain from L5S1 degeneration, three knee injuries, and mental health challenges got piled on too.
My personal and persistent cycle of setbacks fueled my curiosity about why they kept happening and what I could do to prevent them. That curiosity introduced me to exercise, where I’ve healed physically and mentally, and now help others do the same. My pain became my purpose.
While I’ve coached clients of all ages and walks of life for 24+ years, 2017 was the year Handsdan launched online. The pandemic’s ups and downs only refined my coaching skills, allowing me to help people around the globe feel and move better.
Credentials & expertise
Diploma in Fitness
TRX Qualified Coach
Functional Range Conditioning FRC Mobility Specialist (FRCms)
Kinstretch Level 1 Certification
GymnasticBodies Certification
Knowledge of Oxygen Advantage and Animal Flow methodologies
Coaching philosophy
You’ll hear me repeat this mantra: consistency over intensity. If you’re better than you were yesterday, then you’re on track.
To me, fitness is about feeling good, moving well, and staying strong as you age. Looking good is just a bonus. So if you’re building strength, learning cool skills, and carrying out daily activities pain-free, you’re winning. The only necessity is a willingness to explore functional movement that works for you long-term.
Throw out the notion that fancy equipment and hours in the gym equal success. Whether you’re working on mobility to get up from the floor, your handstand, or endurance to keep up with the kids, I’ve got your back—literally and figuratively.
What life outside the gym looks like…
Originally from Ireland, I now call Australia’s Gold Coast home. In 2023, my partner Amy, our two daughters, and I explored the cultures of 13 countries in seven months.
Talk about a memorable experience. When I’m not coaching or traveling the world, I’m chasing my kids (ages 2 and 5), perfecting my handstand, enjoying a good thriller book, or chilling at the cinema.
And if you’re wondering what’s blasting through my headphones during a workout, it’s usually Metallica’s "Enter Sandman."
Ready to feel good and move well?
FAQ
Still got questions? Reach out to [email protected] if this doesn’t cover them.
I am a complete beginner. Is this for me?
Being fit or flexible is not a prerequisite for customised coaching. Whether you’re a beginner or a fitness enthusiast, I only ask that you keep an open mind and willingness to learn.
What are the biggest obstacles in mobility and flexibility?
The time you’re able to commit and old injuries that limit your range of motion can challenge you physically and mentally. Practicing patience is key when working on improving the ways your body moves.
What if I can’t stick with it every week?
Life can get in the way of your best intentions—mine included! I advocate for consistency over intensity, so keep at it with whatever time you’ve got. Even if you have a short session or do 1–2 exercises in the week, you still showed up.
How often should I train for mobility each week?
The short answer: Clients experience the biggest improvements when training for mobility 3 times per week. We approach mobility the same as any training modality.
The first step is understanding your baseline and training age. From this starting point, we progressively overload your joints and continue to build.
When should I progress with mobility?
The simple answer? When you feel ready. Start with exercises that are challenging but achievable. You’re ready to level up when they start to feel easy.
How should I approach flexibility?
Stretching itself is a skill to be respected. It demands technique and understanding to maximize results safely and efficiently. Too many people attempt to skip ahead without considering the intention of a well-programmed approach to progress.
