A’Dren grew up in Fayetteville, North Carolina before attending UNC Pembroke where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology (2016). Post-graduation, he trained to become a firefighter for the city of Raleigh, continuing his life-long prioritization of functional fitness and strength training. After a five year career as a firefighter, his passions led him to pursue a full time career as a strength & conditioning coach. He currently serves as a Captain in the United States Army Reserves, and remains active in the powerlifting community.

A’Dren began his fitness journey in high school as a wrestler, which sparked his interest in strength and power movements. Throughout his college and early military career, A’Dren dipped his toe in the world of competitive powerlifting, earning state records in his first meet. His interest in strength sports continued as he was mentored by a professional StrongMan and powerlifter, “Chief Iron Bear,” Harold Collins. He then interned with a CrossFit box for four years, learning and honing his coaching skills. Over his ten-year career as a coach, A’Dren has worked with beginners who have never lifted a barbell, all the way to world-record-holding powerlifters.

When not training himself, A’Dren’s hobbies include experimenting in the kitchen, home improvement projects, spending time in the great outdoors, and fostering dogs from local animal rescues and shelters with his wife.

A’Dren is a Certified Personal Trainer, Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) instructor, and USA Powerlifting club coach.