Mitchell van de Laar is something of a modern-day Renaissance man. He’s a trainer and talent development coach working with some of the hottest wellness and fitness concepts in Europe, spent 20 years (!) as an actor, and has also managed gyms in the past. Oh, and he’s been a model for a number of years. The link between all these different endeavours? A desire to inspire people, which he now does very successfully at Rocycle, a rapidly-expanding fitness concept that originated in Amsterdam, and is now active in cities like Brussels, Berlin and Hamburg, with more on the way.  

We caught up with Mitchell to find out what he’s learned from juggling so many exciting projects.

Hey Mitch! Can you introduce yourself in a few sentences?

Hey beautiful people, my name is Mitchell. I’m a 34 year old fitness and health expert who enjoys small things as well as the more fabulous things in life (haha)…

What do you do for work? 

I work as a fitness trainer and talent development coach. So my expertise is in growing and developing fitness/sports talent. This is on a global (European) scale for different fitness concepts (Rocycle Studios and We are Sanctum).  

How did you get to where you are today?

I always believed that, as long as you put energy and love into what you do, that you can be successful in everything. I’ve been an actor for over 2 decades and did all sorts of things, from managing gyms and recruiting, to sports, modelling, and being an acting coach. The link between all of these things was an internal motivation to inspire and connect with people. I eventually brought all my expertise to the fitness industry where I can say I truly feel happy right now.

What does living a good life mean to you?

That you can look yourself into the mirror every night and that you love who you are and that you celebrate this amazing journey: that is called “life”. With all ups and downs. All its adventures, connections and experiences.

What’s something you wish you’d known 5 years ago?

That I am allowed to prioritise my healing/self worth and inner peace over anything, anyone or any situation that is not working for me. 

Who’s someone you look up to? 

I really look up to Rupaul. I think it is amazing that she has been able to redefine queer culture and the industry by being unapologetic herself in her art and as a drag queen.

What’s the best life lesson you’ve learnt? 

That nothing lasts forever but that if you’re patient enough it will happen again. 

What do you dream about?

I am manifesting my future where I will have a retreat centre to host retreats and workshops, with abundance of animals, mountains and the ocean close by.

What is one thing you recommend?

A balanced life is a happy life. Eat that carrot cake but also work out. Work hard but also enjoy your down time. Travels lots but find solace in being alone and at home.

What song would be the soundtrack to your life?

This is a hard one. Either Baby I’m a Star, by Prince, or Ray of Light by Madonna. 

Finally, give us a hotspot in your city!

One of my favourite places to eat or have a cocktail in Amsterdam is Gitane.