Inside the Ravelin Community: MVP Daryl

What inspired you to start your fitness journey? 

Daryl’s fitness journey began at school, sparked by a visit from the Army that introduced him to the discipline and demands of military life. That moment set his direction early, and at just 16 years old, he joined the Army. 

During his four years of service, fitness became second nature. Training wasn’t something to think about - it was part of daily life, as automatic as brushing your teeth. Through routine and consistency, Daryl built both physical strength and mental resilience, learning to enjoy the process as much as the challenge. 

After leaving the Army in 2012, he transitioned into elite-level CrossFit, competing across Europe from 2012 to 2021. When the pandemic brought that chapter to a close, he shifted focus again. Today, Daryl is a firefighter, where staying fit isn’t just personal - it’s essential for his role, his safety, and the people who rely on him. 

How did you find out about Ravelin Sports Centre? 

Living locally, Daryl watched Ravelin Sports Centre take shape and heard about it through a friend at the university. He wanted somewhere close, flexible, and easy to fit around a demanding schedule. The combination of high-quality facilities, convenience, and access to the sauna made Ravelin an obvious choice. 

What are your current fitness goals? 

Daryl’s focus is on staying “adventure fit.” Rather than training for one specific outcome, he builds a base level of strength and endurance that allows him to take on challenges as they come - whether that’s a long hike, an ultra-run, or something entirely new. 

Right now, he’s preparing for a self-designed ski expedition across northern Norway. The 110km route will be completed fully self-supported, relying only on what he can carry or pull across the terrain. Alongside this, he’s also taking part in a 12-hour overnight run at the University of Portsmouth, contributing to research on sleep intervention and cognitive performance in ultrarunners. 

What does your current workout routine look like? 

Daryl trains in the gym two to three times a week for around an hour, focusing on strength, power, and plyometrics. These sessions support his outdoor training, giving him the strength and endurance needed for long days carrying equipment in challenging environments. 

Outside the gym, running forms a big part of his routine. He trains most days on both roads and trails, using hills, terrain, and changing weather to build resilience. Longer trail runs are saved for weekends, where he can fully immerse himself in the outdoors. 

What’s your favourite workout or piece of equipment? 

If he had to choose, Daryl would pick the StairMaster. In a relatively flat city like Portsmouth, it offers consistent elevation gain and a mental challenge that mirrors long climbs outdoors. It’s a place to zone out, resist the urge to stop, and build the mental toughness needed when conditions get hard in the wilderness. 

How has the gym community impacted your journey? 

Daryl usually keeps his training focused and solo, but the sauna has become a surprising place for connection. That’s where the conversations start - with fellow members who share stories of challenges, adventures, and ideas. One casual conversation even led to Daryl being invited to give a talk about a 1,000km triathlon challenge he designed and completed. 

Do you train solo or with others? 

Most of the time, Daryl trains alone, occasionally alongside people he coaches, or with his partner and dog. This flexibility works best around firefighter shift patterns and allows him to train whenever the opportunity arises. 

What keeps you motivated on tough days? 

For Daryl, motivation comes from perspective. Training is a privilege, not a chore. On days when motivation dips, he focuses on why he trains and what lies ahead. Those tougher sessions prepare him for moments when quitting isn’t an option - alone, tired, and deep in the wilderness. Learning to accept discomfort is part of the process. 

What’s your go-to post-workout meal? 

After a long run, it’s usually something simple and satisfying - an almond croissant or cinnamon swirl. Overnight oats with dark chocolate are another favourite, and after a big challenge, nothing beats a well-earned pizza. 

What advice would you give to someone just starting out? 

Keep showing up. Don’t compare yourself to others, especially online. Focus on your own progress, explore what you enjoy, and let consistency do the rest. 

What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you? 

Daryl and his partner are planning to move into a campervan full-time next year, using it as a base to explore more and take on new adventures. 

Who is your fitness inspiration or role model? 

Daryl’s inspiration is his 14-year-old self - the version of him that decided to join the Army. Everything he does now is a way of honouring that decision and continuing the journey it started. 

Daryl’s story is a reminder that fitness can be a foundation for exploration, purpose, and growth. Every challenge he takes on is about more than endurance - it’s about curiosity, resilience, and discovering what’s possible. 

Whether designing his own expeditions or helping others achieve things they never thought they could, Daryl continues to push forward, always asking what’s next. We’re proud to have him as part of the Ravelin community and to share his incredible journey.