13-11-2024
We have a major problem with the upcoming generation in society. Half of the Dutch population is overweight. Every generation of children is becoming less mobile. One in five children never plays outside. In addition, sports associations and clubs are losing more and more young members. Sports and exercise are under pressure from all angles. As a result, children are becoming increasingly unhealthy and there is less connection between children.
Sporthelden-op-school was founded for this purpose with the mission to bring about a revolution in sports and exercise, health and prevention, so that children become more aware of the importance of exercise and health. This will result in them becoming fitter and being fitter.
A good example is followed by a good example. That is why sporthelden-op-school chooses top athletes who make good examples visible, tangible, recognizable and feasible by putting them in front of the class. I am happy that I am one of these top athletes to inspire the new generation to a better lifestyle and to actually encourage them to take action. With this we show the children that exercise and working on your health does not have to be difficult, and that you can also take small steps in this, with pleasure. In addition to a presentation, every top athlete also gives sports-specific clinics to the children. I provide taekwondo clinics and I think it is great to see how this can get children excited. This way they move well and have fun!
I am really looking forward to inspiring as many children as possible to move more in the coming period!
25-01-2026
Last week, I had the opportunity to take part in an exceptional training camp in Oslo, Norway. Together with a select group of international athletes from Denmark and Iceland, we were invited by the Norwegian national team for an intensive and inspiring week.
Under the guidance of Norwegian national coach Marco Scheiterbauer, we trained twice a day throughout the week. The sessions were demanding, high-level, and extremely valuable, thanks to the quality of both the training structure and the international training partners. Outside the dojo, we made time for recovery walks, enjoyed the snow, explored Oslo, and even managed to do some skiing—an experience that added a unique Scandinavian character to the camp.
If I were to summarize this training stage in one word, it would undoubtedly be memorable. Not only because of the physical and technical gains, but also because of the warm hospitality and openness of our Scandinavian hosts. The atmosphere was professional, yet relaxed, and it created an environment where learning and development came naturally.
One moment during the week stood out in a very different way. During a physical training session, I found myself training alongside Jens Stoltenberg. Known worldwide for his career in international relations—most notably as former Prime Minister of Norway and Secretary General of NATO—seeing him train with the same discipline and focus was unexpectedly inspiring.
As someone pursuing a path in international law, the encounter felt symbolic. Stoltenberg’s career reflects the importance of dialogue, resilience, and long-term vision in an international context. Experiencing that parallel—him in international relations and myself in international law—while both engaged in physical training, reinforced the idea that discipline, consistency, and global perspective transcend professions. Whether in diplomacy, law, or elite sport, progress is built through dedication and respect for the process.
This training camp offered far more than just sport-specific development. It was a week of cultural exchange, personal reflection, and renewed motivation. Norway left a lasting impression—both on and off the mat—and this is a training stage that will remain with me for a long time.
19-11-2025
This year, I once again had the opportunity to give an inspiring workshop to the students of VSO De Pyler. The theme of their project was "health and nutrition," and as an elite athlete, I was able to share my experiences and insights with them. In addition to the presentation, I also led two taekwondo clinics.
It was wonderful to inspire the students through sports, but the experience was even more valuable because I was able to contribute to raising awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Good nutrition and sufficient exercise together form the foundation for a healthy future. What a wonderful experience to share my passion for sports and health in this way!
Thank you, Oscar Smeets, for helping to make this possible!
16-10-2025
Moving together with Rotterdam Topsport
As a key partner of Rotterdam Topsport, Quooker BV collaborates on their vitality calendar: a biannual program packed with activities that promote exercise, healthy eating, and relaxation.
As a Taekwondo athlete, I was able to provide a Taekwondo workshop at Quooker through Rotterdam Topsport. The participants were very enthusiastic and thoroughly enjoyed it!
It's wonderful to inspire colleagues about health and sports!
A proud taekwondo athlete with Olympic ambitions who represents the Netherlands at international tournaments. Besides the passion for sports, Aymen is also a Master student of International Law & Global Governance at Tilburg University.
Aymen Achnine © 2024 - Webdesign by Webduo
