Ash Ayonote left office life behind after spending years behind a desk in Hong Kong. Now, as a fitness coach, he is showing that the city’s parks make great gyms by leading outdoor training sessions that prioritise community as much as cardio.
His approach has universal appeal. He recently trained three generations of men from the same family in a public park in Sai Kung. Simon Kavanagh, 53, was the first in the family to turn to Ayonote in October 2023.
“I was approaching 50, feeling unfit and looking for some structure and routine,” Kavanagh says. “Ash was able to bring the discipline, goal setting and accountability that I wanted.”
As a result, Kavanagh was able to develop the foundation he needed to take part in a Hyrox event in Hong Kong in July 2025, alongside a group of other people that Ayonote trains. The event requires competitors to complete eight 1km (0.62-mile) runs interspersed with eight punishing fitness challenges. The most recent version in the city took place between May 8 and 10 and attracted nearly 20,000 competitors.
People take part in one of Ayonote’s training sessions at the Wai Man Road Playground in Sai Kung. Photo: Edmond So
Kavanagh says Ayonote has become a great friend through their many fitness sessions, and he enjoys bringing family members and visiting friends to his classes.