David Parkinson

From Royal Marine Commando to Global Sports Authority

Coach DP’s professional career began in the Royal Marines, where he developed the discipline, mental resilience and ability to perform under pressure that would later shape his coaching approach. Over the past 15+ years, he has coached, consulted, and developed performance systems across combat sports and multi-sport environments—consistantly working with athletes and organisations at the top level.

Coaching Expertise & Performance Systems

DP works at the intersection of technical coaching, performance strategy, and long-term athlete development. His methods are grounded in applied sports science and shaped by years of hands-on experience across high-performance settings.

• Fight Strategy & Ring craft – Helped guide athletes to world titles in organisations such as WBC, RIZIN, Rise, and WLF, with a focus on tactical execution, timing, and decision making.

• Speed & Strength Development – As a certified sprint coach (UK Athletics, ALTIS) and a specialist in strength and performance (NSCA, NASM, EXOS), he has worked with Olympians, professional teams, and high-level athletes to improve movement efficiency, force output, and conditioning.

• Sports Performance Consulting – Advises national federations, training centers, and elite fighters on preparation, performance structure, and system development—offering guidance that extends beyond the gym.

Leadership, Coaching, and Program Direction

DP has held high profile roles across four continents, guiding athletes, coaches, and sports organisations at both grassroots and elite levels.

• Olympic-Level Coaching – Served in official performance roles for two Olympic teams that produced gold medal-winning athletes.

• Performance Lead – Oversaw a multidisciplinary coaching team at one of China's Regional high-performance training centres, coordinating development across combat sports and other Olympic disciplines.

• Research & Applied Sports Science – Published peer-reviewed research on reaction speed and performance efficiency, contributing to the evolution of high-performance methodology.

Competitive Background & Influences

Before transitioning to full-time coaching and consulting, DP competed internationally in a number of combat sports including Boxing and Professional Kickboxing—amassing over 150 bouts with an 83% win rate and securing multiple championships. He fought in major promotions including KLF, Glory of Heroes and WLF.

His coaching philosophy is grounded in this first-hand competitive experience and further shaped by time spent training under elite coaches and within world-class performance environments.

Selected Coaching Influences:

• Ismael Antonio Salas – Olympic and World-champion boxing coach known for technical precision

• Yodkhunpon Sittraipum – Lumpinee and Rajadamnern Champion and Muay Thai legend

• Rob McCracken CBE – Head coach of Team GB’s Olympic Gold medal boxing program

Elite Training Environments:

• Beijing Sports University & Kunming Haigeng High Altitude Base (China) – Integrated sports science, conditioning, and elite-level athlete preparation

• Krazy Bee / Yamamoto Sports Academy (Japan) – Japanese MMA gym known for integrating striking, wrestling, and high-level athletic development

• Iowa Hawkeyes Wrestling (USA) – Renowned NCAA Division I program known for elite-level wrestling culture and technical intensity

Education, Mentorship & Industry Contribution

• Developed accredited coaching education content for the likes of NASM, NSCA, and AFAA

• Collaborated with Nike, MyProtein, and GQ Magazine on performance and media projects

• Continues to work selectively with national teams, elite athletes, and federations seeking to elevate their training and coaching systems

“Coaching is a privilege that comes with a moral responsibility. I strive to develop athletes who are not only successful in competition but also exemplify integrity and humility—leaders in sport and in their communities.”