Meet Coach Darren, Royal Marine–tough, purpose-driven, and all about building stronger bodies and mindsets.
His Credentials
Level 3 in Personal Training
Level 2 in Fitness Instruction
Served as a Royal Marines Commando with operations in Sierra Leone, Afghanistan and Iraq
His promise
To help you build not just physical strength, but the mental resilience that carries through every part of life.
From From military grit to everyday goals
Darren, or “Daz” as he’s known around the retreat, brings serious lived experience into every session. After years serving in the Royal Marines, followed by high-level security work in Iraq, Somalia and London, he has trained under pressure, led in high-stakes environments, and learned exactly what the body and mind are capable of.
For Darren, fitness isn’t a chore. It’s a mindset. It’s structure, discipline and accountability. And above all, it’s a way to become a better version of yourself.
"As long as I live I’ll keep training. It’s the ultimate act of self-respect."
Fitness with purpose
Darren’s coaching is shaped by purpose, not ego. Over the past decade, he has completed multiple solo strength and endurance challenges, raising thousands for causes that matter to him. Every challenge gave his training focus and gave back to others in the process.
That same spirit shows up in every Nova session. Whether you are new to training or chasing a personal goal, Darren meets you where you are, helps you build confidence, and pushes you to realise just how strong you already are.
What it’s like to train with Darren
Structured sessions that challenge and motivate
A clear focus on mindset and consistency
Encouragement, honesty and support
Rock music, sweat, and the occasional post-workout shower floor recovery
He takes pride in helping clients build a strong foundation and a stronger mindset. His goal is not just to guide you through a program, but to leave you with the tools to keep going long after the retreat ends.
"Where the mind goes, the body follows. Strength starts upstairs."
