We recently had the privilege of interviewing Elvan Sener, a Medical Exercise Specialist, an Advanced Level Exercise Specialist, a Master Personal Trainer, and the Founder of ProNucleus Medical and Lifestyle Coaching. Elvan is a four-time award-winning exercise specialist whose career began at the tender age of 17.
Starting as an assistant trainer, she quickly progressed to becoming a licensed trainer with extensive experience in gyms. She has also earned an official fitness athlete license and currently holds a prestigious Master Trainer designation. Her professional journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for the next generation of instructors in the fitness industry. In this interview, Elvan shares her impressive career trajectory and offers a glimpse into her impactful work in this field.
Advent Of The Professional Journey
We started the interview by asking, “Could you share the story of how you began your career journey?”
Elvan Sener shared, “At the age of 17, I embarked on my fitness quest, marking my background in this field. Moving forward to 2012, I began my professional career by earning a certificate from the Turkish BodyBuilding and Fitness Federation as an assistant trainer. Later, I enhanced this and obtained a license as a trainer.
Eventually, I gained extensive experience in various gyms and have been involved in all aspects of my profession. In 2017, I obtained an official fitness athlete license from the Turkish Ministry of Youth and Sports and participated in competitions. In 2019, I attended global training and obtained several licenses. Now in Dubai, I continue to assist people as an advanced exercise specialist, after a 6-month stint in Qatar.”
Overcoming Major Adversities
Challenges are a part of every professional journey. To learn how Elvan Sener overcame these phases, we asked, “Could you describe your experience of moving to the UAE and starting your career here as a single woman? What were some of the challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?”
Elvan Sener shared, “In my early years in the UAE, I faced language difficulties, but overcame them over time. My career goal was to be a successful and recognized coach internationally, and I chose Dubai among many offers from various countries. The reason for my choice was the high importance given to education and the fitness sector in this region.
Furthermore, as a single woman, I feel safe and supported in the UAE, particularly in Dubai. Being a Muslim country also contributed to my preference. Overall, I didn’t face significant obstacles as my foundation was strong.”
She added, “As a successful coach approved by America and Europe, it was not very difficult for me to be accepted in the UAE and subsequently I received approval as a coach from the UAE. Being accepted on three continents gives me a sense of achievement. The recognition and support I receive in the UAE is a major factor that keeps me connected to the country. I believe that true professionalism and success can overcome any challenge, and the same happened with me.”
A Huge Leap In Elvan Sener’s Career
We further asked, “Being the only trainer in the UAE with Master Trainer status from EREPS, how do you think this distinction has influenced your approach and your standing within the industry?”
“Reaching ‘Master’ status was one of my biggest goals, and it is an incredible honor for me to receive this status from an international official institution and to represent the UAE with this status. The biggest advantage of this status is the increase in people’s trust in me. It is most important that customers are aware that you are no longer an ordinary trainer and that you have a reliable identity in the fitness industry that can be consulted for information.
Last year, I rose above the ‘Master’ status and became an ‘advanced exercise specialist’ status. This was a huge leap forward in my career. I would like to thank EREPs again for appreciating the effort and work I have put into the fitness industry and deeming me worthy of this status.” Elvan shared.
Assessing The Right Move
We were intrigued to learn about the factors that Elvan Sener ensures while pivoting her next strategies. So we asked, “In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare and fitness, how do you assess when it’s time to pivot your strategy versus when to stay the course?”
Elvan Sener replied, “In a significant change last year, I shifted my strategy towards the health sector after being recognized as the Best Master Personal Trainer in the Business and Professional awards in 2022 and 2023. Additionally, I was featured in the BeingShe Icons collector edition book, showcasing the 40 successful women in the UAE.
Recognizing a crucial need for medical exercise within the sports industry, I pursued training as a Medical Exercise Specialist through Fitness Academy Turkey and Istanbul University Cerrahpasa, receiving instruction from esteemed doctors in their respective fields. Gradually, in 2023, I received the title of ‘Medical Exercise Specialist’ and ‘Advanced Level Exercise Specialist’, approved by Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine. Since then, I have been working with doctors on over 60 disease cases.”
“At the Health 2.0 health conference, which is held twice a year in February 2024, one in Las Vegas and the other in Dubai, I was deemed worthy of the Outstanding Leadership Award for my contributions to the health sector. Additionally, I was recognized for my contributions to medical exercise at the Mastermind Awards in the UAE. I am grateful to Dr. Mansoor Al Obeidli and Dr. Navana Kundu. It is truly an honor to be acknowledged among accomplished healthcare professionals and receive these prestigious awards.
I also analyze DNA and create personalized strategies, focused on exercise for health, aiming to become a renowned exercise specialist and a brand name. Additionally, I plan to collaborate with international athletes whose names are synonymous with success in sports, generating significant impact.” She added.
Impact Of Technology: Reshaping The Industries
Technology is evolving at a rapid pace and has been redefining the way businesses perform. We asked, “How is technology playing a role in advancing your services and client interactions?”
Elvan Sener said, “Technology has both positive and negative effects. Whatever you choose to use, technology serves that purpose. There is a lot of information pollution and people access it very easily. People can also access a coach’s infrastructure, thanks to the internet. Another benefit of technology is that I can reach all my customers online, even if they are not with me. We can attend many workshops and theoretical training.”
An Untapped Potential
To understand Elvan Sener’s perspective on the emerging potential of her industry, we asked, “Looking toward the future, which emerging trend do you believe is currently undervalued but will significantly impact your industry in the next few years?”
Elvan Sener shared, “Using AI technology, DNA analysis has been my main focus since 2019. By examining a person’s DNA map, we can create personalized training and nutrition programs, eliminating wasted time and trial and error. Genetic training is necessary for this cutting-edge approach.
Another area of expertise is the Medical Exercise specialization, which encompasses more than just injury rehabilitation. It addresses various conditions such as neurological, metabolic, and cardiovascular diseases, pregnancy-related issues, orthopedic disorders, as well as sports and movement system injuries, utilizing corrective exercises.
I collaborate with doctors on client cases and recognize the need to inform people. As the fitness industry expands, individuals increasingly seek information. I believe these trends will shape the future, positioning me as an exercise specialist conducting relevant studies in the field.”
Flourishing In The Field
We concluded the interview by asking Elvan Sener, “With both opportunities and uncertainties ahead, how are you positioning your practice to not just survive but thrive in the coming years?”
Elvan concluded, “I am determined to pursue advanced studies in DNA genetics and medicine, focusing on exploring the unknown and conducting innovative scientific research. In addition, collaborating with doctors and leading these studies holds great significance to me. Moreover, I am proud to be a fitness education provider and the founder of ProNucleus Medical and Lifestyle Coaching”
Follow Elvan Sener on LinkedIn.
Also Read :-
Redefining The Architecture Industry With MAG PLUS Studio: Mohamad M. Maksoud
