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Showing posts from December, 2014

Dedication, commitment and a splash of passion....

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Celebrating our success - Today we look at two amazing members from the squad who have shown commitment and improvement this year. We are lucky enough for them to share their stories. James Mcleod This year my season has been completely focused around Ironman Sweden in August.  This was my first Ironman so my target was just completion and to enjoy it. James looking in Pain after CSS testing. :) My swimming has come on really well this year (from a CSS of 1.55 in January to 1.39 in June) so that was never a concern for me.  I'm a pretty new cyclist so that was a big limiter for me, not ideal when you've got 180km to get through.  So I've spent many an hour on my bike this year, almost all endurance based work.  My running has pretty much gone to pieces this year as well as I’ve had chronic shin splints for most of the year.   All my events this year have been pretty enjoyable, except maybe the 11ÂșC water in the river at the Wetherby triathlon.  T

Taking to the water....What motivates you?

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Taking to the water!!! Ummmmmm, I could probably list 50 words or more off the top of my head as to why people take to the water.  Active Blu Open Water Venue.  However by asking the squad this question we get a real insight of their journey since joining Active Blu - I asked them to do this as we do not celebrate ourselves enough and often we do not think we have achieved enough to write or tell people about.... However I believe most people are amazing and therefore try and encourage them to share their stories. Most people have to juggle work, kids, relationships, amongst other things to come training and it is important to acknowledge this.... :) ASA coach assessment day 2014 Many of the squad have responded and agreed to write and share their stories....they have mentioned by writing this it did make them realise how far they have come in such a short time. I hope this helps inspire those in the squad that sometime doubt their performance, everyone has to

A month for Celebrating...

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This month celebrates people achievements...We look at people stories and the journey they have been through in order to get there.  The first person to Celebrate is:  Kath , here is her story.... Two years ago I rode my bike then my legs stopped working properly.  18 months ago I found swimming was the only movement which didn't hurt so decided I ought to learn how to do it a bit better.  I could manage two lengths of front crawl before I needed a rest.   Kendal Tri club got me going, thanks to all the volunteer coaches there. I ended up having a video session with Emma and discovered that I braked 23 times a length by sticking my elbows in first.   Emma gave me some drills to improve, my body stopped hurting and someone else gave me a shove to enter Ironman  Austria ..... 3.8km is a bit further than two lengths so, despite being very daunted by the name 'Sunday Swim Squad'- which seemed to imply you had to be very good, I nervously asked Emm

Why we do what we do....

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Why we do what we do.... I often wonder why we do the things we do, what drives us and makes us tick. I know this differs from one person to the next and thats what really interests me as a coach and tutor.  This month I have worked with some great coaches, athletes and tutors all over the UK within the sport of triathlon and swimming. In the times in the between work, I often find myself reflecting on what a privileged position I hold. Not only can I continue to learn and educate myself, but also support peoples goals, dreams and ambitions.....  Active Blu - Faults and Corrections Workshop - Triathlon England AGM - Nov 2014. A few of the squad after a hard CSS set - The Red mist Rises. Nov 2014. I often wonder if I have the best job in the world? Ok sometimes its long days and tiring, however for the most part I get to spend my life with motivated, dedicated people that just want to improve and develop their skills or performance.  Tutoring Triathlon Englan