Darryl Edwards as featured
“I envision a future where the epidemic of physical inactivity and lifestyle diseases is met with a global movement towards playful, inclusive fitness. By bridging the gap between science and application, my goal is to cultivate a culture where movement is not just medicine but a daily practice embraced with enthusiasm. I aim to revolutionise health and fitness, making them universally attainable and enjoyable.”
— Darryl Edwards

BIO

What if the key to lifelong fitness wasn’t found in a gym, but in play?

Darryl Edwards, MSc, CES, CertLM, FBSLM, is a globally recognised movement coach, author, and speaker, certified in lifestyle medicine and accredited as an Advanced Cancer Exercise Specialist (CES). He is the creator of the Primal Play Method®, a pioneering approach that transforms fitness into a fun, accessible, and life-enhancing experience for all.

From Surviving Trauma to Thriving Through Movement

Darryl’s journey to health and wellness took a dramatic turn in 2005 when he survived the London 7/7 terrorist attack. This harrowing experience led him to reflect deeply on the importance of mental resilience, trauma recovery, and physical health. How did surviving such a traumatic event influence his approach to movement and mental health? What role does play serve in the healing process, especially for those dealing with post-traumatic stress?

Before this pivotal moment, Darryl spent years in a high-stress career in investment banking technology. But when his physical health began to deteriorate, he questioned everything about his sedentary lifestyle. How did he go from several screens and servers to helping people reclaim their health through play?

Expertise and Credentials

Darryl’s credentials provide a strong foundation for his innovative approach:

His approach combines evolutionary biology, exercise physiology, cognitive neuroscience, and play psychology. How does blending these disciplines create a more effective approach to health and fitness? How does the science behind play impact not just physical health, but mental and emotional well-being?

Inspiring Audiences Worldwide

Darryl’s dynamic, engaging style has made him a sought-after speaker at institutions and events worldwide, including:

  • Harvard Medical School

  • American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP)

  • British Society of Lifestyle Medicine

  • Microsoft

  • Imperial College London

  • Virgin Atlantic

  • Merrill Lynch

  • International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA)

  • Starbucks

  • US Play Coalition

His presentations inspire audiences to rethink their relationship with movement. What is it about his sessions that leaves participants excited to move again? How can play-based movement be integrated into corporate wellness or clinical settings?

Media Presence and Thought Leadership

Darryl’s TED Talk, “Why Working Out Isn’t Working Out,” has over 1.2 million views. It challenges conventional exercise wisdom with a playful twist. Why does he believe traditional exercise paradigms fail so many people? How can we make fitness something people look forward to rather than avoid?

His insights have been featured in:

What misconceptions about fitness and health does he frequently encounter in media discussions, and how does he address them?

Author and Innovator

Darryl is the author of the best-selling books:

He also created the Animal Moves Fitness Decks for adults and children. How can we reconnect with movement patterns inspired by nature? Why is it important for children to experience fitness as play rather than as exercise?

Through his Primal Play Method® Coaching Certification, he empowers fitness and healthcare professionals to integrate playful movement into their practice. What impact has this programme had on healthcare professionals and their patients?

Focus on Long-Term and Mental Health Conditions

Darryl’s work supports individuals managing long-term conditions like cancer, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s. How can playful movement help people living with these conditions? What breakthroughs has he witnessed in his work with these individuals?

His personal experience with the 7/7 terrorist attack also informs his work on mental health, resilience, and trauma recovery. How can movement and play help us navigate trauma and stress in a world where mental health challenges are on the rise?

Recognised and Endorsed by Leaders

Darryl’s work has earned praise from:

  • Dr Rangan Chatterjee (The 4 Pillar Plan, Feel Better, Live More)

  • Tim McGraw (Grit and Grace)

  • Dr Zoe Williams (This Morning)

  • Clare Balding OBE (TV Broadcaster)

  • Sebastien Foucan (Freerunning Pioneer, Casino Royale)

  • Dr Stuart Brown (Psychiatrist, author of the book Play)

Why do these leaders find the Primal Play Method® so impactful, and how have they applied his insights in their fields?

A Trusted Advocate for Holistic Health

As a trustee for the British Association for Holistic Medicine & Health Care, Darryl champions a playful, inclusive approach to physical activity. How does his advocacy influence public health initiatives, and what changes would he like to see in how we approach fitness on a societal level?

Darryl Edwards is Available for:

  • Media and Podcast Interviews: Discussing playful movement, mental health, resilience, and long-term health conditions.

  • Conference Keynotes and Workshops: Delivering dynamic, evidence-based sessions that inspire lasting change.

  • Corporate Wellness Events: Offering strategies to integrate movement and play into daily routines for improved well-being and productivity.

Residing in London, England, Darryl Edwards remains at the forefront of a movement to redefine health and fitness. He advocates for a playful, inclusive approach to physical activity that vows to transform public health paradigms.

Discover more at PrimalPlay.com

SOCIAL MEDIA

PHILOSOPHY

Darryl Edwards's philosophy, 'movement is medicine', is not just a principle but a call to action. He sees a world where the joy of movement transcends age, ability, and background, fundamentally changing our approach to health and wellness. By advocating for a playful and inclusive approach, Darryl aims to shift the global mindset, making physical activity a cherished part of everyday life. His vision extends beyond fitness; it's about nurturing a happier, healthier society through the transformative power of active play.

PHOTOS

Follow Darryl Edwards @fitnessexplorer on Instagram