Warrior Workout with Coach Adam

Growing up, Adam Washington had to face and fight racism nearly every day of his adolescence. The 39-year-old Ardmore resident was born to a Jewish mother and an African American father.

“Having a white mother and a black father, I got if from both sides,” Washington said.

He attended Upper Merion Area High School, where he frequently had to stand up against racist bullies. Determined never to be a victim, Washington always defended himself and proudly kicked butt when called for.

Family Legacy

“My dad is my hero; he has four black belts, and I watched him daily sitting in my stroller,” Washington recalled. Leading by example, his father taught him the importance of hard work and persistence, as well as lessons in martial arts and entrepreneurship, too.

All of that practice and fighting paid off for the young Washington, eventually earning him a USA Boxing Scholarship. Yes, there are scholarships for aspiring boxing athletes, too. Much like other athletic scholarships, there are about 10 post-secondary education scholarship programs for up and coming young boxers.

Born to Teach

As Washington’s success in boxing continued, he discovered his true calling: motivating, inspiring, and teaching others. “I was born to teach. Teaching is my SUPERPOWER and I can teach anybody from 4 to 84,” Washington said.

Now affectionately known as Coach Adam, Washington shares his passion, knowledge, and kick-boxing skills with students at his school, the Washington Boxing Academy in Ardmore. At the academy, he offers warrior skills and kick-boxing lessons to adults and children. Washington offers the whole package: teaching proper breathing techniques, fighting stance and a variety of kick-boxing skills.

Carrying on the Tradition

Like father, like son, Washington is passing the kick-boxing baton to his young son, Adam Jr., who also trains with his dad and is soaking up the wisdom of both boxing and the business. That makes three generations of boxers and martial artists, striving for excellence and high standards.

Today, Washington continues to enthusiastically and passionately motivate his students, via virtual platforms during the pandemic, of course. “Even virtually, I am able to communicate with people and teach them,” he said.

A true craftsman, Washington has not only mastered the martial arts, but perhaps most importantly, he has mastered inspired communications. Even during these especially challenging times, learning and growing are cherished.

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