Driven by passion, shaped by discipline and defined by strength.
Coach Mashael Fadel Aldewan is a powerful example of how passion, discipline and purpose can shape a successful career in health and wellbeing. Known for her energetic approach and commitment to helping others grow stronger, she has established herself as a respected fitness professional with expertise across personal training, nutrition, calisthenics, CrossFit and high-intensity group classes including GRIT, BP, Spin and Strong Nation. Her approach reflects the demands of modern fitness, combining performance, balance and sustainable results.
Coach Mashael has earned recognition not only for her technical knowledge, but also for her ability to motivate and empower clients from all backgrounds. She believes fitness should go far beyond appearance, placing equal importance on confidence, mental wellbeing and building habits that last. Through her coaching, she encourages people to challenge limitations and discover their full potential.
In this exclusive interview with CP Magazine, she shares the experiences that shaped her journey, the values behind her coaching philosophy, and the lessons she has learned along the way. From women’s strength training and nutrition to discipline, mindset and the growing fitness culture in the region, Coach Mashael offers honest insight, practical advice and an inspiring perspective on what it truly means to become stronger.
To begin, could you tell our readers a little about yourself and the journey that led you into the fitness industry?
My name is Mashael, and I have loved sports and movement since I was young. At first, it was simply exercise and part of my lifestyle, but over time my passion for fitness grew stronger. I became curious about everything related to sport and training, different class styles, equipment, exercise positions, and what each movement targets. Little by little, fitness became a huge part of my daily life.
What first inspired you to become a coach, and when did you realise fitness would become your career rather than simply a passion?
What first attracted me was how big and diverse the fitness world is. I spent a lot of time learning and applying everything to myself first. Deep down, I always had a feeling that one day I would become a coach, and then the opportunity came naturally. I truly believe that when you pursue something with love and passion, it eventually finds its way to you.
Can you share details of your educational background and any specialist qualifications that helped shape your coaching philosophy?
In the beginning, I trained for myself and constantly asked questions about exercises, machines, and muscle targeting. I did a lot of research, watched videos, and practised everything on myself. Later, I decided to earn my Personal Trainer certification as my first official qualification because I strongly believe that experience, learning, and understanding should come before the certificate itself.
Your profile highlights several disciplines, from nutrition to CrossFit and calisthenics. How did you build expertise across so many areas?
Exactly, my profile includes different disciplines because the fitness world is very broad. Every time I gained experience in one field, I became curious to explore another. I enjoy learning about different styles of training and becoming knowledgeable in multiple areas because each one adds a new perspective and deeper understanding.
Was there a defining moment in your life that changed the way you viewed health, movement, and wellbeing?
Definitely. Sometimes life puts people through situations that completely change them, and I was one of those people. During that period, I wanted to turn to something that would benefit me physically and mentally, and fitness became that safe and positive space for me. Over the years, you gain more experience and realise how much exercise can improve not only your physical health, but also your mental health and personal life.
How would you describe your coaching style, and what makes your approach different from others in the industry?
My coaching style is disciplined, but also fun and relaxed at the same time. I like people to feel comfortable and be themselves during class. Most importantly, I want every client to leave the session feeling that they truly benefited and achieved something.
Many people struggle with consistency. In your experience, what is the biggest reason people fail to stay committed to fitness goals?
I believe the biggest reason is that people expect results too quickly and set unrealistic goals from the beginning. Consistency is not about temporary motivation, it is about building simple habits that are realistic and sustainable. Small steps done consistently always lead to strong long-term results.
You specialise in nutrition as well as training. How important is nutrition compared with exercise when it comes to achieving results?
Nutrition and exercise complement each other, but nutrition is the foundation. No matter how hard someone trains, results will always be limited without proper nutrition. The body needs balanced nutrition for recovery, energy, and muscle development. That is why I always say that balance between the two is the key to real results.
For beginners who feel overwhelmed, what is the best first step towards creating a healthier lifestyle?
The best first step is starting with something simple and manageable, such as walking, drinking enough water, or improving sleep and eating habits. You do not need to change your entire life overnight. Slow and consistent progress creates lasting change.
Calisthenics requires discipline, control, and strength. What drew you to this training style personally?
What attracted me to calisthenics is the level of body control and strength involved. I love the idea of developing strength and movement using your own body weight, and I enjoy the challenge and continuous self-improvement that come with it.
CrossFit has become hugely popular worldwide. What do you believe it offers that traditional gym training sometimes does not?
CrossFit combines strength, endurance, and fitness in a dynamic and enjoyable way, which helps people improve in multiple areas at once. The sense of challenge, community, and energy in classes also keeps people motivated more than traditional repetitive workouts.
Functional fitness classes such as GRIT, BP, Spin, and Strong Nation demand energy and motivation. How do you keep clients engaged and inspired?
I always try to create positive energy during class and make every person feel capable of achieving more. The way you speak, the music, and encouragement make a huge difference. I also like to change routines and add small challenges to keep classes exciting and enjoyable.
What are the most common misconceptions women have about strength training and lifting weights?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that lifting weights will make women look bulky. In reality, strength training helps tone the body, improve muscle definition, and increase strength and confidence. It is also extremely beneficial for overall health, bone strength, and metabolism.
In your view, how has the fitness culture in Kuwait evolved over the past few years?
Fitness culture has always existed in Kuwait, but it became much more popular after the COVID period. People first started focusing on home workouts and healthy habits, then gradually returned to gyms and made fitness and healthy living part of their daily routine.
How do you personally stay disciplined and motivated, especially on days when energy is low?
I always remind myself that discipline is more important than motivation. Not every day will feel exciting, but commitment to your routine is what creates results in the end. Even on low-energy days, I try to do what I can instead of doing nothing at all.
Mental health and physical health are closely linked.
How important is exercise for emotional wellbeing in your experience?
Exercise is not only about appearance or physical results, it creates mental balance and inner peace. Training helps reduce stress, improve mood, and build a healthier relationship with yourself. From my experience, people often notice a mental transformation before the physical one.
What are some of your other hobbies?
Besides fitness, I enjoy playing the piano and diving because both activities give me a different kind of peace, relaxation, and enjoyment.
Finally, your message for us at CP Magazine.
My message is to always believe in yourself and remember that progress begins with one step. Stay consistent, stay patient, and never underestimate what you are capable of achieving.
Photography: @kmavrick_pro
