Qualified Mountain Leader & outdoors instructor | Climbing, Hiking, Navigation, Paddlesports, First Aid | London based but travels across the UK

Find out more about Adam

• What age did you start playing sport? Tell us about this time or moment in your life.

  I've always enjoyed sports from ever since I can remember. However a time I remember clearly is when I had to pick a sport for school and X-country was one of the options. I hadn't heard of this yet and asked my teacher. I remember him explaining it and I thought to myself "that sounds like fun" and to this day I really still enjoy running - especially on the trails or in the mountains.

• What are your favourite sports; those that you practice at a high level, a simple hobby, and a sport that you'd still like to discover?

  My favourite sports are fell running, climbing, all types of mountaineering, kayaking and open water swimming. At university I played rugby and also muggle quidditch (now known as quadball) which I really enjoyed and yes, you do have to run around on brooms! I have done some surfing and scuba diving and I would love to do more of both.

• What gives you the motivation and passion to pursue your sport?

  Enjoyment of the sports provides the biggest motivation but with running and climbing the other main factors that motivate me are improving myself, exploring new places and being outside and active. I also enjoy the social and collaborative part of climbing.

• Do you have a sporting achievement that you're particularly proud of?

  I love a challenge. This summer, I took part in the Irish Sailing and Mountaineering Adventure Challenge (ISAMAC) which was not only very physical but also a large mental component. I remember the toughest part was coming back down from Carrauntoohil. We'd had a long sail, cycle inland then run up and down Ireland's highest peak. On the cycle back to the yacht it was pitch black, cold, raining heavily and the route was windy and steep. I found it physically and mentally exhausting and even staying awake was a struggle!

• How have your achievements and challenges made you a better sportsperson?

  In my opinion it's important to push yourself in a controlled way in order to reignite your passion for a sport, get to know your own limits, and be able to operate under pressure. It's also important in order to coach or lead others.

• If you had to go for a jog with a famous athlete, who would you choose? And what questions would you ask them?

  I would go for a jog with Hazel Findlay. She is a kind and down to earth person and a fantastic climber. It would be great to ask her about her "head game" for lead climbing hard trad routes. I would also be great to go exploring with her and try to pick out interesting lines.

• How do you help people stay motivated?

  I give people clear and achievable goals to aim for or if they already have one then a roadmap for how to get there. I encourage thinking about problems and questioning. I can't understate the importance of tailoring my support to the individual and having a range of tools with which to do that.

• What makes you a Superprof in sports?

  Part of what makes me a Superprof in sports is my wide experience from teaching in a classroom to taking people up mountains or on remote expeditions abroad. Also my passion for sport and for helping support others achieve their potential.