Adam is originally from Watford, Hertfordshire and was educated at St. Michael's Catholic High School.
As an athlete, he represented Great Britain on the road, cross country and track.
In 2001 he represented Great Britain in the World Junior Cross Country Championships and finished 6th in the European Junior Cross Country Championships later that year behind Mo Farah (who finished second).
After missing 2007 through injury, Adam won the 2008 UK Olympic trials in the 3000 metres Steeplechase.
Since 2008, Adam has been a professional triathlete, and is currently trains at the Welsh triathlon centre based at Cardiff Metropolitan University.