Meet Will Fraser-Coombe: Your Adventure Coach

When people think of adventure, they often picture rugged landscapes, mountain peaks, and the thrill of the unknown. But for me, adventure is more than just physical challenges—it’s a mindset, a way of life, and a journey of self-discovery. My name is Will Fraser-Coombe, and I’m the founder of Adventure Athletes. Today, I want to share a bit about who I am, the challenges I’ve faced, and why I’m so passionate about helping others conquer their own mountains—both literal and metaphorical.

From Strength to Serve: My Journey into Coaching

Growing up, I was inspired by the philosophy of the Yamakasi, the pioneers of Parkour. Their mantra, “Etre Fort Pour Etre Utile”—“Be strong to be useful”—became my guiding principle. It wasn’t just about physical strength; it was about resilience, adaptability, and using your abilities to make a difference. That philosophy shaped my path, leading me to train in gymnastics, parkour, rock climbing, and strength sports. Eventually, it brought me to the fire service, where I found my purpose in serving my community.

But life has a way of testing even the strongest among us. In 2020, when the world turned upside down, I faced an impossible choice: give up my role as a firefighter or lose my home. I chose my principles over comfort, and within hours, I was homeless. I spent nights on park benches and later on makeshift beds at the fire station, relying on the kindness of my crew and my own determination to keep going.

Even in the hardest moments, I clung to the belief that my training and mindset could see me through. Whether it was training for a marathon in in full fire kit or running an ultra-marathon on a torn hip flexor, I pushed myself to prove that I could endure anything. But beneath the surface, the cracks in my armor were beginning to show.

The Battle Within: Mental Health Struggles

For years, I prided myself on being unshakable. I thought that as long as I kept moving, kept training, I could outrun the darkness. But when a climbing accident left me with a broken ankle and six months of being unable to walk, everything changed. I felt trapped—physically and mentally. The freedom I’d fought so hard to maintain was gone, replaced by isolation and self-doubt.

The breaking point came when I couldn’t complete a simple rehab run. I’d run ultra-marathons before, but now I couldn’t even manage a walk-run cycle. I felt broken, no longer the strong, capable person I once was. Depression took hold, and I found myself questioning everything—even my will to live.

It was therapy that saved me. For the first time, I allowed myself to be vulnerable, to admit that I wasn’t okay. Through BigMoose, a mental health charity in Cardiff, I began to understand the importance of not just physical strength but emotional resilience. I learned to embrace vulnerability as a strength, to connect with others on a deeper level, and to find a purpose beyond my own ego.

The Birth of Adventure Athletes

Out of those dark times, Adventure Athletes was born. I realised that my struggles and triumphs could inspire others to push beyond their limits and discover their own resilience. Adventure Athletes isn’t just about fitness or outdoor challenges—it’s about empowering people to overcome adversity, embrace discomfort, and grow stronger in every sense of the word.

Today, I offer performance coaching, personal training, and courses like rock climbing taster days and Olympic lifting for beginners. I’ve also launched a podcast to share stories of incredible individuals who’ve faced their own challenges and come out stronger on the other side. It’s my way of building a community where people can find inspiration, support, and the tools to achieve their own adventures.

Looking Ahead: The Next Labour

As part of my own journey, I’m tackling 12 Labours inspired by Hercules’ mythological challenges. Each one is a test of resilience, purpose, and strength. My next labour? 6 ultra marathons over 6 days! I'll be completing the Pegasus Slam but on back to back days! I'll be running 220 miles in this time, over some of the most beautiful but harsh terrain Wales has to offer, aiming to raise £6,069 for Sport in Mind, helping others deal with their mental health using the medium of sport.

Why Work with Me?

Here’s what you can expect when you work with me as your coach:

• Real Experience: From competing in strongman events to completing a 50-mile barefoot walk, I’ve pushed myself to the edge and back. I know what it takes to overcome physical and mental barriers because I’ve lived it.

• A Holistic Approach: It’s not just about physical training. I focus on building mental resilience, fostering a growth mindset, and helping you discover your why.

• Empathy and Understanding: Having faced homelessness, injury, and depression, I understand how hard it can be to keep going. I’m here to support you, no matter where you’re starting from.

• Community and Connection: Adventure Athletes is more than a coaching service—it’s a community. Whether it’s through our podcast, group courses, or one-on-one sessions, you’ll be part of something bigger than yourself.

• Custom Challenges: I’ll help you set and achieve goals that push you out of your comfort zone, whether it’s climbing your first mountain or completing a personal milestone you never thought possible.

Final Thoughts: The Power of Vulnerability

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that strength doesn’t come from never falling—it comes from getting back up, from being honest about your struggles, and from allowing yourself to be vulnerable. Whether you’re facing your own challenges or supporting someone else through theirs, remember that you’re not alone.

Adventure Athletes is here to help you find your strength, embrace your vulnerability, and discover what you’re truly capable of. If my story resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s take the first step on your adventure together.

Ready to Start Your Adventure?

Visit Adventure Athletes to explore our coaching services, courses, and community. Whether you’re looking to overcome personal challenges or take your fitness to the next level, I’m here to help you every step of the way.