How do you start out as a tennis prodigy, and then end up training celebrities like David and Victoria Beckham and Karlie Kloss, (that’s just to name a few)? Well, 45 hours a week of working out is a good place to start. Akin Akman gives us the latest on fitness, and how to look like a star.
Akin Akman, the founder of AARMY, doesn’t have to recruit fitness soldiers. He has already has amassed nearly two million fitness-enthusiast followers on Instagram. And, if the packed classes at the AARMY studios in New York City are any indication, his army is looking pretty strong.
At AARMY, in NoHo, Chelsea, and online, attendees participate in high-intensity bootcamp and/or cycling workouts. During classes, there’s an underlying sense of community and support. Classmates high-five each other, clap to acknowledge their neighbors, and keep the spirits positive.
Akman started gaining his community of dedicated fitness warriors while leading sold-out classes as an instructor at SoulCycle in New York City, and in the 10-plus years since, his brigade has become global.
As summer is upon us, we asked Akman what his plans are, how he stays in shape during the sunniest season and where he’s traveling next.
Other than your own AARMY fitness classes, what other workouts are you doing these days?
I mostly take AARMY. However, I’ve also been taking some dance classes at Forward Space and Moves. I also go to SoulCycle and Barry’s when I travel in the US. When I travel abroad, I take sessions at local studios. I also do AARMY on-demand or Zoom.
What inspired you to go out on your own, after years at SoulCycle?
I always knew I’d build a champion training facility. It was just a matter of when and with whom.
Where is your favorite place to travel to?
I love traveling home, to Turkey. Cesme is my favorite place. I love the beaches, I love my grandma’s food. And I love my family and friends.
What is a great (maybe underrated) destination for fitness?
I think Alacati, Cesme is underrated. There’s such a great windsurfing and kite-surfing community. The only thing they are missing is a daily AARMY routine.
What is your favorite hotel?
Raffles London, Bebek Hotel in Istanbul, and The Ranch in Malibu and Hudson Valley.
What is your favorite in-flight snack?
I bring my own homemade trail mix granola.
Are you someone who brings only a carry-on, or do you check bags?
Carry-on only. They always lose my bags when I check a bag.
What is in your carry on?
Skin care: Sunday Riley. Thorne products. A lacrosse ball, AARMY bands, lululemon clothes, jeans, and sweatshirts.
Where will you be traveling to this summer? Who will you be traveling with?
I will be traveling to Turkey, France, England, Mexico, Wisconsin, Chicago and Hawaii with my team captain, Laura and my Mom. It’s fun to travel, because I get inspired and get to bring AARMY to so many new people.
Where is one place or destination you’ve never traveled to but want to go?
Japan, for its history, culture, and food.
What do you like to do when you are in NYC and have a day off?
No days off!
Do you have a favorite restaurant in New York City?
Leon’s. It just opened near my apartment, and the chef trains at AARMY. The food is delicious, and it’s great for brunch or dinner.
What is the most spontaneous trip/adventure you’ve been on?
Two weeks in London in my early 20s.
What is your favorite souvenir or keepsake from a trip?
My Backgammon set from a flea market in Paris.
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