We’re incredibly fortunate to have so many amazing coaches, so we wanted to start giving them more in-depth introductions! This way, you can learn more about their backgrounds and what they love about teaching. This week, we’re excited to introduce Coach Liam!
1. How did you get started in teaching?
Movement has been a part of my life since I was born—literally. My dad had me on skis at six months old. After that I found parkour and have been training for about 10 years now. I actually got introduced to it through a dance class I was taking with a close friend. He mentioned he was trying out a parkour class, and we were close so I decided to tag along. I got hooked from there. Parkour was the first discipline I both trained in and taught. I started coaching all age groups at the same YMCA where I originally began learning, which made it all come full circle.
2. Have you had any mentors or key influences that shaped your coaching and training style?
Definitely. One major influence was Tyler Boyce—a kung fu and karate practitioner who worked at the YMCA where I trained. I also took private lessons from him. Beyond just the movement, he really emphasized values: working with your environment rather than against it, and fostering community with those you train with. I have tried to keep those values with me throughout my training journey.
Another big influence was Eric Corral, owner of the parkour gym in Bend. The first parkour jam I ever attended was hosted by him, and it was inspiring to see someone who had already been practicing for over a decade and had built such a strong, welcoming community around it. He’s truly a pioneer in the space.
3. What classes will you be teaching, and who are they designed for?
Right now, I’m subbing for parkour and flips classes, but I’ll soon be having my own weekly classes at the gym, which I’m really excited about. We’re working on the details but we’re talking about a powerlifting class—I’ve been lifting consistently for three years—along with contemporary dance and/or contact improvisation classes. All of these will be designed to accommodate students from beginner to intermediate levels. Let us know if any of these classes interest you!
4. What goals or outcomes can students expect from your classes?
First and foremost, I want people to have fun and walk away with a new skill they can actually use outside the gym. My goal is to help people feel stronger, more confident, and more capable in their day-to-day lives.
5. How would you describe your teaching style in three words?
Understanding, playful, and informative.
6. How do you tailor your approach to meet the needs of different individuals or groups?
I pay close attention to the people in the room and assess their level pretty quickly. From there, I adapt the class to meet them where they are, whether that means scaling things up or down.
7. What sets your teaching apart from others in the field?
I focus heavily on positive reinforcement. I believe people learn best when they feel supported and encouraged, not judged. It’s always been important to me to create a environment where people feel safe and supported
8. Can you share a favorite success story or a moment you’re particularly proud of?
One standout moment was when I was 18 and got to be part of a circus troupe. We performed an adaptation of The Greatest Showman and trained for three months leading up to the shows. It was such a rewarding experience and really confirmed how much I love combining performance, movement, and teamwork.
9. What’s your favorite part of teaching and coaching?
I love teaching someone a new skill in a single class. Watching that moment when it clicks for them, and seeing them walk away from class successfully doing a skill they might not have even thought was possible before coming to my class.
Private lessons available in:
- Weightlifting
- Practical movement skills
