Name: Esen Onur
Nickname: Eso, Ferro
Birthday: February 14
Hometown: Istanbul (Turkiye)
What is your athletic background? Did you play any sports growing up?
“There weren’t many organized teams when I was growing up. So, I ended up playing a lot of different sports for fun. I played soccer mostly (on the street, beach, parking lots, wherever I could find a game), but also basketball, handball, volleyball, tennis and badminton.”
When did you attend your first workout with Arlington Sports Conditioning, and how did you first learn about the group?
“I learned about this great community from my neighbors [and fellow ASC members] Josiah and Molly. I started attending ASC in 2023. It has been a blast!”
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment, and why?
“It was running the Charlottesville 10-miler for the first time many moons ago. I was in grad school and had just picked up running as a hobby. I didn’t understand what it meant to run a 10-miler race, or how to prepare… but when I crossed the finish line, I realized how fun it was and I was hooked.”
What is your favorite exercise(s)?
“I would pick soccer over every other exercise. But in the gym, I enjoy the non-traditional exercises Pete comes up with, like exercises with slam balls, battle ropes, etc.”
What is your favorite workout song or musical artist?
“I like 90s rock in general but I also enjoy the curated music at ASC.”
What is your favorite sports team?
Fenerbahce (Turkish soccer team)
Who is your favorite athlete?
“Alex de Souza. He played for Brazil and for Fenerbahce. He was an amazing soccer player who had very high soccer IQ. From current athletes, I also love Andres Iniesta. He has great control of the ball and is a true team player who elevates everyone he plays with.”
Other than working out, how else do you like to spend your free time?
“I spend a lot of time driving my teenage kids around, so I don’t have much free time on my hands. Whatever time I can find, I try to travel and learn about different cultures, and also try my hand at different recipes in the kitchen.“
What do you like best about Arlington Sports Conditioning?
“I love the support (and the expectation to show up) from the group. Working out in a group is much more fun than doing it by myself and time flies by at the ASC workouts. I truly enjoy the curated set of exercises we do and appreciate the effort Pete puts into making it fun and effective every time.”
What are the biggest benefits that you have experienced as a member?
“I made new friends, which is great. I also feel stronger and think I am getting fitter overall. Most importantly, working out at ASC makes me feel happier.“
What advice would you offer to new or prospective members of Arlington Sports Conditioning?
“Come for the fitness and you will continue coming back for the fun and friendship.“