#elite triathletes

[tripeakathlete]

Beginner Triathlon Program

Join Our Beginner Triathlon Program: Your Journey Starts Now! Have you ever dreamed of becoming a triathlete? Whether you’re just starting or aiming to improve, our Beginner Triathlon Program is the perfect opportunity for you. We’re here to help you transform those dreams into reality with guidance, community, and a whole lot of support. Why Join Our Program? Comprehensive Training Our program…

[beezonia]

Some of my favourite pokèmon ships and some headcannons!

Pt1

———

Molayne x Kahili - Steelwedgeshipping

These two are very much a secretive couple but not like their doing bad stuff they just keep to themselves

Kahili is a bit emotionally constipated so molayne helps her a lot with expressing her emotions

They both have bracelets that they wear that were made by Olivia for their engagement

Molayne’s represents his dugtrio with two little diamonds for the eyes and a citron gem for the nose

Kahili’s is based on her Toucannon and has two onyx gems for the eyes and a spinel for the red part of its beak

They met due to the elite four and Kukui introducing them cause he thought they would get along well

And they did but Kahili was definitely a bit skeptic due to her golfing career and not wanting to shove Molayne into the spotlight

But she does end up kissing him on camera at her last match before retiring

Overall they are very soft and sweet

Shauntal x Grimsley - Rolandshipping

These two are very romantic but also very very freaky at the same time

Goth couple

Very much library dates and candlelight dinners but also just lounging on the couch with each other

They are both extremely into the paranormal (Shauntal especially she is ghost type for a reason)

She has a podcast that grimsley frequents and they talk about hauntings and all the spooky stuff

Shauntal can be a bit shy at times so grimsley is her biggest hypeman

And Shauntal makes sure that he gets enough rest and doesn’t gamble to much

They are big softies who do look intimidating but really aren’t

Kris x Silver - Redemptionshipping

Kris becomes a triathlete when she’s older she still loves the thrill of battle but she’s not really focused on that anymore

Silver goes on his own journey to Kalos and they end up being really good at the long distance relationship things

Silver makes sure that Kris takes breaks and spend time away from her sport

Kris makes sure to stay in touch frequently so silver doesn’t feel alone all the time

When they do meet they aren’t really the type too show to much affection in public but they do hold hands alot

They are the silent but very sweet couple

Silver gets taught dessert recipes by Kris cause she’s amazing at baking

Whilst he himself is more a cook and does big meals a lot of the time

They love to take hikes together it’s an unspoken thing between the two of them but they just know when either wants to meet up and go for a huge hike

Their bond is extremely strong which makes them an awesome team to battle against

It shows through their pokèmon who have an equally strong bond

Viola x Grant - Fleurdegranadeshipping

bi4bi couple I don’t make the rules

These two were the enemies to lovers in kalos

Most of the league had bets on when they’d get together or break up

But they are very sweet

Cafe dates or battling dates they pick and choose depending on their moods

Grant helps viola with her photography sometimes when he’s not busy with the gym

Viola joins grant climbing sometimes and they get into some very heated competitions

Grant had to get Alexa’s approval before he could officially ask viola out

It took a few months of convincing (alexa is a tough cookie to crack)

Bit together they are extremely strong and cute

Viola helps grant with balancing the gym and his work

Grant helps viola relax with his cooking as making sure she rests enough due to her own photography projects

Having said that grant sometimes just takes some shots of viola when there put and about on dates sometimes

He has a photo book full of photos from the start up till now of their relationship

Selene (Moon) x Lily - Moonlilyshipping

They are both very quiet, their relationship is not one many know about (apart from elio/hau/gladion)

So they spend hours and hours just snuggling and chilling in each other’s rooms with their pokèmon

Lily likes to read to selene when she’s not doing her champion work and stuff

Selene loves to make lily little trinkets and give her gemstones as a symbol of her love and it’s her way of showing Lily she cares

They tend to take long walks on the beaches just talking about their days or something that had happened

They have double dates with hau and gladion which consists hau talking his ass of with selene trying to match his energy

Lily and gladion both end up smiling like idiots and wonder how they got wonderful partners like that

Lily becomes a pokèmon professor in the future staying in alola to help kuki and burnett with their growing family

She eventually becomes alola’s official professor, travelling all over to spread her research along with the other professors

Selene eventually retires/gets beaten and leaves the position of champion at some point (early 30s/ late 20s?)

You can find her in the battle tower though she likes it there

Hau x Gladion - Cutebonesshipping

Another sort of enemies/rivals/to lovers thing

They tended to avoid each other at first, hau did make the first moves and was like “I think ur cool would you like to be my friend?”

Gladion challenged him to several battles

It took hau a bit to realise that gladion was trying to find his weaknesses whilst battling and while he knows he has a few, hau knows he and his team are strong

And when hau continues to beat gladion’s ass oh he falls hard does gladion

He tells Lily and Lily is the same about selene, they are very bad at love btw

Hau and Gladion are getting to know each other a lot better

They have battle dates as well as malasada dates

Hau ends up asking him out when they finish a battle one time cause he knew that gladion might not do it

Gladion blushes his ass of and makes sure to always reaffirm his love for hau because the bean is a tad bit self conscious

Hau travels to jhoto and kanto to try all the food, his blog becomes quite popular in the world

Gladion stays with Lily sometimes but travels to kalos to meet with Korrina who he’s close friends with

Hau loves to bring back little keychains and accessories that will suit gladion

In turn gladden brings hau food from kalos back

They are very soft btw

——-

That’s it! Lmk if you want a pt2!

[mllebleue]

That's been debunked in many ways, folks. It was not e-coli. It was run of the mill over-exursion, which happens a lot and often in elite athletes.

The Paris Olympics insisting that athletes compete in the Seine is so absurd it feels like something Terry Pratchett would want to make fun of. Like can you imagine him writing a Discworld story about a mad Ankh-Moorpark city official deciding to put on some ancient extravagant game, creating havoc in the city by bringing in all these foreigners to compete, and insisting the Ankh river, which is so filthy it's basically solid, is perfectly fine to swim in, because that's what they did in ancient times so that's how they're going to do it now. I feel like it would be a Night's Watch story about the people hired to clean the river and all the friends and horrors they discover along the way.

Good luck to all the athletes swimming in the poop water.

[carlocarrasco]

National triathlete Kim Mangrobang an awardee of the Women in Sports Awards, event scheduled for March 20, 2024

Elite triathlete and back-to-back Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) medalist Kim Mangrobang has officially been confirmed by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) as an awardee of the Women in Sports Awards which will happen on March 20, 2024 at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila. In a March 8, 2024 official letter addressed to Mangrobang, PSC Commissioner Olivia “Bong” Coo wrote: It is…

[tripeakathlete]

Athlete Warrior - Quote of the Day

Morning Team! Quote of the day: Warriors don’t wait for the storm to pass, they learn to dance in the rain. Embrace the challenges that the gloomy weather brings, for it’s these moments that truly test your dedication and commitment. Let the raindrops be your source of strength, the wind your ally, and the gray skies your canvas for greatness. Remember, every step, pedal stroke, and swim stroke…

[highlytunedathletes]

Beyond Limits: Exploring the Untapped Potential of COROS Multisport Smartwatches

Smartwatches have taken different avatars and brands compete with each other to offer premium sports watch, multisport GPS watch, and similar watches to sports persons to optimize their fitness as well as abilities. Coros has established itself as a leading brand in performance watches and Designed specifically for athletes of all levels, COROS smartwatches empower you to elevate your performance, track your progress, and achieve your fitness goals.

The COROS Difference: Built for Athletes, By Athletes

Coros is an American brand that primarily makes smartwatches for travelers and runners who move around in harsh conditions. The lightweight, durability, battery life, design, and accurate sensors impress the users. COROS isn't your average smartwatch brand. Founded by athletes, for athletes, they understand the unique demands and challenges endurance athletes face. COROS smartwatches are meticulously crafted to address these needs, using top-grade materials for exceptional durability and innovative technology for precise performance tracking. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a budding triathlete, COROS offers a smartwatch that can withstand the harshest conditions and provide the data you crave to train smarter and perform better.

Unmatched Performance for Every Athlete: Surprising COROS watch collections

COROS offers a diverse range of multisport GPS watches, each catering to the specific needs of different athletes:

Dedicated Runners

For runners seeking a feather-light watch with extended battery life, the COROS Pace 3 is the perfect companion. Weighing a mere 35 grams, it boasts up to 20 days of battery life in regular use, with an Ultramax GPS mode lasting an incredible 60 hours. Focus on your run without worrying about constant recharging.

Multisport Enthusiasts

Craving a versatile watch that tracks running, cycling, swimming, and more? Consider the COROS Apex 2. This smartwatch offers a variety of sports modes, winter sports compatibility, turn-by-turn navigation, and a durable sapphire crystal lens. It also features a longer battery life compared to the Pace 2 and a slightly larger size for better visibility.

Elite Athletes or Adventurers

Demanding the ultimate in performance and functionality? The COROS Apex 2 Pro is your match. This feature-packed smartwatch boasts an impressive battery life of up to 30 days in normal use, a backlit touchscreen for easy operation in all conditions, and advanced training metrics to help you optimize your workouts and recovery.

Endurance Adventurers

Pushing your limits on expeditions and long journeys? The COROS Vertix 2  is your ideal companion. This smartwatch reigns supreme with a staggering battery life of up to 45 days on a single charge. Crafted from the best materials available, it ensures durability in extreme environments and offers all the features you need to navigate challenging terrains and track your progress.

Why Choose COROS Watch?

COROS smartwatches go beyond impressive battery life to offer a range of features specifically designed to enhance your training experience:

Advanced Training Metrics

Track key performance indicators like heart rate, pace, distance, cadence, elevation, and more. Analyze your data to identify strengths and weaknesses, and tailor your training plans for optimal results.

Built-in GPS with Multiple Satellite Systems

Enjoy superior accuracy and tracking even in challenging environments with multi-satellite GNSS support.

In-Depth Training Analysis Tools

Utilize advanced training tools like VO2 Max estimation, recovery time recommendations, lactate threshold analysis, and training load metrics to optimize your performance and prevent overtraining.

Multiple Sports Modes

Track your workouts across various disciplines, including running, cycling, swimming, hiking, climbing, skiing, and more (depending on the model).

All-Weather Performance

Train in any condition with waterproof, dustproof, and temperature-resistant designs.

 Smartphone Connectivity

Sync your COROS smartwatch with your smartphone to view detailed training data, receive notifications, and customize settings.

Durability & Build Quality

These smartwatches are built to last, withstanding even the most demanding training sessions and extreme environments.

Competitive Pricing

COROS offers premium performance at a competitive price point compared to other high-end sports watches.

Invest in Your Performance: Choose Your Perfect COROS Match

Explore the full range of COROS multisport GPS watches and find the one that empowers you to reach your athletic potential. From the feather-light Pace 2 to the feature-rich Vertix, there's a COROS smartwatch perfectly suited to your needs and training goals. Visit the COROS website today to learn more and unlock a world of possibilities on your next adventure.

[lvelitenetwork]

Event: Lehigh Valley Elite Network Business Networking Event at Texas Roadhouse - May 30 @ 11:00am

The Lehigh Valley Elite Network invites you to a business networking event on May 30, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Texas Roadhouse, 4463 Southmont Way, Easton, PA 18045. Special Guests: 1) Felicia Heath MD – Author of Spirit of a Hummingbird: Memories from a Childhood on the Run 2) Dr. Lindsay Esola – Owner of Flowering Fox Studio 3) Marie Adair – Triathlete/Health/Mindset Coach 4) Deb…

[herronapparel]

Herron Apparel Launches Cutting-Edge Long Sleeve Triathlon Suit for Ultimate Performance

Herron Apparel, a leading name in athletic wear, proudly unveils its latest innovation: the Long Sleeve Triathlon Suit. Engineered to elevate performance and redefine endurance wear, this state-of-the-art suit is designed to meet the rigorous demands of triathletes worldwide.

Triathlon athletes are always seeking the edge that will propel them to victory. Understanding this, Herron Apparel has dedicated its expertise to crafting a suit that maximizes performance while ensuring unparalleled comfort and durability. The Long Sleeve Triathlon Suit is the culmination of years of research, development, and feedback from elite athletes. For more information, visit https://herronapparel.notion.site/Herron-Apparel-Launches-Cutting-Edge-Long-Sleeve-Triathlon-Suit-for-Ultimate-Performance-e4fcdc566ede406c90c7525e215b8782

[mattbottrillperformancecoaching4]

Unveiling the Top 5 Triathlon Events in the World

Triathlons, the ultimate test of endurance, have transcended mere sporting events to become global spectacles attracting athletes, enthusiasts, and spectators alike. From the heart-pounding swim to the grueling bike ride and the demanding run, triathlon events around the world offer a unique blend of competition and camaraderie. Let's explore the top 5 triathlon events that stand out on the global stage.

Ironman World Championship - Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Undoubtedly the pinnacle of all triathlon events, the Ironman World Championship held annually in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, is the stuff of legends. Known for its challenging course and scorching conditions, this event brings together the world's elite triathletes who have qualified through other Ironman races.

The race encompasses a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a marathon-length 26.2-mile run. The iconic "Energy Lab" section and the fervent crowds make this event a must-attend for both participants and spectators. Kona represents the epitome of triathlon achievement, where competitors push their limits amidst the stunning backdrop of the Hawaiian islands.

ITU World Triathlon Grand Final - Various Locations

The International Triathlon Union (ITU) World Triathlon Grand Final serves as the climax of the ITU World Triathlon Series. Held in various locations across the globe, the Grand Final attracts elite triathletes from different nations, vying for the coveted title. The event features Olympic-distance races, incorporating a 1.5-kilometer swim, 40-kilometer bike ride, and a 10-kilometer run.

The significance of the Grand Final lies not only in the fierce competition but also in the fact that it crowns the ITU World Champions in various categories. The rotating host cities ensure a diverse and challenging set of courses, making it a dynamic and unpredictable series finale.

Challenge Roth - Roth, Germany

Known for its fast and flat course, Challenge Roth in Germany has earned its place among the world's top triathlon events. The event draws both professional and amateur athletes to the picturesque town of Roth, providing an electrifying atmosphere for competitors and spectators alike.

Challenge Roth features a 3.8-kilometer swim in the Main-Donau Canal, a 180-kilometer bike ride through the Bavarian countryside, and a marathon-length run. What sets this event apart is the unwavering community support, with thousands of spectators lining the course, creating an atmosphere of celebration and encouragement.

Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon - San Francisco, USA

Adding a touch of adventure to the triathlon scene, the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon in San Francisco is a truly unique and iconic event. Athletes begin their journey with a chilling 2.4-kilometer swim from Alcatraz Island to the shores of Marina Green. The race continues with an 29-kilometer bike ride and an 11-kilometer run, incorporating the challenging terrain of the city.

What makes this event stand out is its historical backdrop and the sheer thrill of swimming in the chilly waters of the San Francisco Bay. The Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon is not only a physical test but also a mental challenge, with athletes conquering the notorious Alcatraz swim before navigating the hilly streets of San Francisco.

Norseman Xtreme Triathlon - Eidfjord, Norway

For those seeking the ultimate test of endurance and the raw beauty of nature, the Norseman Xtreme Triathlon in Eidfjord, Norway, is an unparalleled experience. Often dubbed as one of the toughest iron-distance races, Norseman combines the challenges of cold water, mountainous terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions.

The race begins with a frigid 3.8-kilometer swim in the Hardangerfjord, followed by a demanding 180-kilometer bike ride through the Norwegian mountains. The climax involves a marathon-length run finishing at the summit of Mount Gaustatoppen. Norseman stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of triathletes willing to conquer extreme conditions for the thrill of the challenge.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these top 5 triathlon events represent the epitome of the sport, showcasing the diversity and challenges that athletes face across the globe. Whether it's the lava fields of Kona, the historic streets of San Francisco, or the stunning landscapes of Norway, each event offers a unique blend of physical prowess, mental resilience, and the sheer joy of triumphing over adversity. As triathlon enthusiasts gear up for these extraordinary events, they not only embrace the opportunity to compete but also become part of a global community that celebrates the relentless pursuit of excellence in multisport athleticism.

This article is brought you by Matt Bottrill Performance Coaching and Matt Bottrill is a renowned triathlon coach having own a number of major events himself.

[weshipyourride]

Get Inspired: A Look Back At Our Favorite Cycling Stories from 2023

As a global bicycle shipping company, we have intimate knowledge of the many corners of the world to which people ship bikes. But it’s through our Ambassadors and staff that we learn all the different and truly inspiring places that bikes can take people. We took a look back through our blog and are sharing our favorite highlights from 2023, including stories of the people who most inspired us not only to ride more, but to better appreciate what being part of the cycling community can achieve.

Bikeflights Ambassador Lisa Gillespie leads the New York City chapter of Black Girls Do Bike, a national organization dedicated to “championing efforts to introduce the joy of cycling to all women, but especially, women and girls of color.” Lisa spends her days as an RN and clinical professor of nursing, but then she dons her “shero” cape and works to foster a love for cycling at all levels and disciplines of cyclists.

“It’s about visibility for riders that really aren’t seen. Black female cyclists are such a small minority of the field. People are not used to seeing us riding together. It’s important for us to claim a space in a place that we love,” Lisa says.

Read more about Lisa’s journey from mountain biker to triathlete to Black Girls Do Bike “Shero.”

Enzo Moscarella, another Bikeflights Ambassador, dedicated virtually no thought to bikes just a handful of years ago. Now, after authoring and illustrating a bike-themed children’s book and conquering some of cycling’s premiere events like the Leadville Trail 100 MTB, Enzo finds bikes occupying a significant portion of his mind, inspiring him in many aspects of his life.

“I found the phrase ‘send it’ happening more and more in my life,” Enzo says, relating it to situations in his life in which, “the worst that could happen is I fall and have to get back up.”

Read more about how Enzo gained a new perspective on life through riding bikes.

Bikeflights Customer Support Team member Lifan Irwin was helping people ship bikes with Bikeflights before helping people ship bikes with Bikeflights.

As a former bike shop owner in Las Vegas, Lifan brings a unique perspective to the Bikeflights Support Team. Not only is she adept at communicating with customers and aspiring to simply help people ride bikes, she’s a certified mechanic and endeavors to leave no cycling discipline untried. Whatever conditions Southwest Colorado provides, Lifan plans to attempt to ride it.

Read more about how an adventure race led Lifan to be a certified mechanic, former shop owner and Colorado-based member of the Bikeflights Support Team.

World Champion track cyclist and Bikeflights Ambassador Ashton Lambie had set out on a grueling 1,050-mile self-supported gravel race through the Flint Hills of Kansas. A day into the race he found himself sitting in a ditch, in the dark, questioning his resolve to continue. Could a call from NASA rescue his race?

Find out in our profile of Ashton’s Flint Hills Ultra experience.

Sydney Wenger is a fifth grade teacher (and Bikeflights Ambassador) who incorporates her weekend experiences into her lesson plans. As an elite mountain bike racer, Sydney finds a unique way to connect with her students.

“I feel that being competitive in a sport helps me connect with my students in a way most teachers cannot,” said Sydney. “Many students at this age have high hopes for their futures, and I may be one of the only adults in their life who they know striving to be the best they can be or simply even following their passion.”

Read more about Sydney’s double life as an elementary school teacher and elite athlete.

We often talk about what we gain from riding bikes. Bikeflights Ambassador Abe Alkhamees found a passion for cycling, and he lost a lot.

Abe lost 188 pounds. But he also gained a lot, like increased mental and physical health and two projects aimed at helping others appreciate riding bikes.

Read more about Abe’s journey from growing up in Kuwait to his life-changing discovery of bikes.

Learn more about and follow Bikeflights Ambassadors.

[fitnessaccessoriesandequipment]

The Chilling Truth: Unveiling the Remarkable Benefits of Cold Plunge Therapy

In recent years, the wellness world has been abuzz with a chilling trend: cold plunge therapy. Once a secret of elite athletes and hardy Scandinavians, cold water immersion has splashed into mainstream wellness practices. But what lies behind this frosty fascination? Is it just another wellness fad, or are there genuine benefits to be reaped from this icy endeavor?

As someone who once winced at the thought of a cold shower, I too was skeptical. However, my first foray into the world of cold plunge therapy was nothing short of transformative. The initial shock quickly gave way to a surge of vitality, leaving me both invigorated and curiously calm.

The Science Behind Cold Plunge Therapy

When you immerse your body in cold water, it's not just a test of willpower; it's a full-blown physiological and neurological event. The sudden drop in temperature causes your blood vessels to constrict, enhancing circulation as your body works to maintain its core temperature. This improved blood flow can help flush out metabolic waste and reduce inflammation.

Moreover, the shock of the cold triggers a flood of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, which can lead to a mood boost. Adrenaline is also released, heightening alertness and energy levels. The result? A refreshing jolt to both body and mind.

Major Health Benefits

Improved Circulation and Cardiovascular Health: Regular cold plunges can strengthen your cardiovascular system. The practice trains your blood vessels to be more responsive and efficient, potentially lowering the risk of heart disease.

Enhanced Recovery and Reduced Muscle Soreness: Athletes have long used ice baths to speed up recovery. Cold exposure helps in reducing muscle soreness and inflammation, making it a crucial tool for anyone engaged in regular physical training.

Boost in Mental Health and Resilience: Cold plunge therapy isn't just a physical challenge; it's a mental one. Regularly facing this challenge can fortify mental resilience, reduce stress levels, and even alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Strengthened Immune System: Studies suggest that regular exposure to cold water can boost the immune system. This is partly due to the increased production of white blood cells in response to the perceived threat of cold.

Weight Loss and Metabolism: There's emerging evidence that cold water immersion can stimulate brown fat, a type of fat that burns calories to maintain body temperature. This could potentially aid in weight loss and improve metabolic health.

Personal Experiences and Testimonials

"Before I started cold plunge therapy, I was constantly battling with fatigue and muscle aches," says Mia, a triathlete. "But after incorporating it into my routine, I've noticed a significant improvement in my recovery time and overall energy levels."

John, a software engineer who struggled with anxiety, shares a similar sentiment. "It was tough at first, but the mental clarity and calmness I feel after each cold plunge are unparalleled. It's like hitting a reset button on my stress levels."

Tips for Getting Started with Cold Plunge Therapy

If you're intrigued and want to give cold plunge therapy a try, here are a few tips to get you started:

Begin gradually. Start with a cold shower and work your way up to a full plunge.

Keep your initial sessions short, around 1-2 minutes, and gradually increase the duration as you become more accustomed.

Always listen to your body and avoid overdoing it, especially in the beginning.

Conclusion

The benefits of cold plunge therapy extend far beyond the initial thrill and challenge. From improved physical health to enhanced mental well-being, this practice offers a range of advantages that are hard to ignore. While it may not be for everyone, those willing to brave the cold often find themselves rewarded with a unique sense of vitality and resilience. So, why not take the plunge and see what benefits await you in these icy depths?

[toughgirlchallenges]

Paula Craig MBE - Embracing the Unknown - Transforming Challenges into Triumphs in Sports and Life, as she charts new paths, inspires resilience, and encourages others to fearlessly pursue their dreams.

Paula Craig, a passionate runner and triathlete, achieved an impressive feat of completing the London Marathon for six consecutive years, from 1995 to 2000, achieving a personal best of 2 hours and 57 minutes in 2000. 

However, her life took a drastic turn in May 2001 when she was involved in a car accident during her cycle training for an upcoming qualifying race for the age group world championships, resulting in paralysis from the waist down.

Undeterred by her life-altering injury, Paula underwent a rigorous five-month rehabilitation process and made a remarkable comeback as a wheelchair athlete. Just 11 months after her accident, she competed in her first post-injury London Marathon, marking the beginning of an inspiring journey. Paula continued to defy expectations by participating in numerous triathlons as a wheelchair athlete, including three world championships, where she achieved gold medals in each event.

Recognising her indomitable spirit, Paula received the prestigious Helen Rollason Award for Inspiration in 2005. In the same year, she was also bestowed with an MBE for her exceptional services to the police. 

Paula's unwavering determination and resilience continued to inspire others as she embarked on yet another extraordinary endeavour. 

In 2022, she made history by swimming the English Channel as part of a six-member relay team, becoming the first person with a complete spinal cord injury to accomplish this feat according to Channel rules, which prohibited the use of a wetsuit. Her awe-inspiring swim raised over £24,000 for Aspire, a charity close to her heart that provides support for individuals affected by spinal cord injuries, enabling them to lead independent lives.

***

New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast go live every Tuesday at 7am UK time - Hit the subscribe button so you don’t miss out. 

You can support the mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast Thank you.

  Show notes

Who is Paula

Turning 60 in July

Working as a police office for 30 years and retiring in 2017

Her love for sport and swimming

Being the youngest of 4

Moving to London and becoming a radiographer 

Joining the police at 22 years old 

What it was like being in the police and being the only woman on the team

Her running journey and getting into marathons

Running the London Marathon (3hrs 23 mins) in 1995 aged 31

Starting to run for St. Albans Striders

Running the London marathon from the elite women’s start line

Running a sub 3 hr marathon (2hrs 57 mins) in 2000

The mental challenge of running sub - 3hrs and doing specific treadmill training sessions

Needing to average 6m 50s per mile 

Moving into triathlon 

Being hit by a car in March 2001 while on her bike and being left paralysed from the waist down

Being in hospital for 5 months 

Deciding to do the London Marathon as a wheelchair athlete in 2002

Getting back into the pool and how it helped her left arm/hand to recover

Working with the Charity Aspire

Needing to sell everything

Moving into interim accommodation 

Accepting what happened

Focusing on the future 

How our minds can work for us to help us avoid pain

Back on the start line of the London Marathon

Placing 3rd but not going on the podium due to the minus 1 rule

Being the first woman to run and race in a wheel chair for the London Marathon

What happens to her legs while swimming 

Having control of her core 

Deciding to swim the channel as part of a relay team

Having a bone infection 

Starting to swim more and enter swim races

Deciding to swim the channel on the 20th anniversary of her accident

Training weekends with Aspire 

Follow the channel rules and swimming with no wetsuit

Needing to do a qualifier in June - 90 mins in the water - (sub 16 degrees) out for 90 mins and then back in for a 60 min swim

Not being able to swim due to bad weather

Having a 7 day window to complete the swim and then going into a queue

Getting the chance to go again on the 10th October 2021

Needing to turn the boat around due to bad weather

Planning to swim the channel in 2022

Setting off on the 4th August 2022

Dealing with severe sea sickness for the whole crossing

Getting back on to the boat using a spinal board

The final hour of swimming

Heading home and celebrating with pizza!

How to connect with Paula

Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.

Learning to embrace and focus on what she could do

  Social Media

Instagram: @paulacraig37

Aspire provides practical help to people who have been paralysed by Spinal Cord Injury, supporting them from injury to independence 

    Check out this episode!

[rockislandadultreads]

Bix7 Race Weekend!

Run Your Best Marathon by Sam Murphy

There's no shortage of advice out there on how to train for a marathon and yet it can be hard to know what will work best for you.

Run Your Best Marathon is here to change all that with the expertise of running coach Sam Murphy. Whether you're looking to step up to the marathon for the first time or to better previous performances over the distance, Sam's runner-centred approach will help you prepare for and race your chosen marathon to the best of your ability.

Choose from six training plans, each pitched at a different level of mileage, intensity, and experience. The plans are backed up by a wealth of essential information and advice on how to train, race, eat and recover. Learn how to:

– assess yourself and set a realistic goal – adjust your diet to optimize training and recovery – get your brain onside to resist fatigue and overcome discomfort – stay healthy during training and respond to injuries – master the skill of racing

We Share the Sun by Sarah Gearhart

At a secluded training camp in Kaptagat, Kenya, a small town nearly 8,000 feet above sea level in the Great Rift Valley, three-dozen world-class runners, including Olympic champions, world record holders and the fastest marathoner of all-time, share simple dormitory-style rooms and endure grueling workouts six days a week.

These determined, devoted, and selfless runners are who they are because of a man named Patrick Sang. One of the greatest—and least-heralded coaches in the sport—Sang is described by his athletes as a “life coach.”

In We Share the Sun, Sarah Gearhart takes us inside this high-octane world of elites of which few are even aware of and even fewer have ever seen. We are immersed in Sang’s remarkable story, from his college days in the U.S. to winning an Olympic medal in the steeplechase, and his journey to become a man who redefines what coaching means. There is no singular secret to athletic success, but, as readers will learn, Sang’s holistic philosophy is like no other approach in the world. It is rooted in developing athletes who can navigate the pressures of elite competition—and life itself.

Rise & Run by Shalane Flanagan

For athletes, breakfast is always the main topic of conversation when out on a morning run. Shalane Flanagan and Elyse Kopecky believe (and science confirms) that what you eat at the start of the day impacts everything: your mood, your work output, your cravings, your sleep, and even your long-term health. In Rise and Run, they turn their focus to the most important meal of the day, with 100 recipes for nutrient-rich, indulgent breakfasts and packable snacks for athletes on-the-go, including morning staples like Goddess Grain-Free Granola, Breakfast Power Bowls, and new savory and sweet variations of the fan-favorite Superhero Muffins. Every recipe includes make-ahead tips for busy athletes and families, and they are crafted with the ideal balance of protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats for athletes of all levels.

Along with the recipes, Shalane and Elyse share their morning routines to set their day up for success: morning rituals, intention-setting tools, predawn running tips and tricks, marathon-training advice for every level, and more. They also include tips to craft a better routine to help improve your health, happiness, and success.

Run Like a Pro (Even If You're Slow) by Matt Fitzgerald

In 80/20 Running, respected running and fitness expert Matt Fitzgerald introduced his revolutionary training program and explained why doing 80 percent of runs at a lower intensity and just 20 percent at a higher intensity is the best way for runners at all levels - as well as cyclists, triathletes, and even weight-loss seekers - to improve their performance.

Now, in this eye-opening follow-up, Fitzgerald teams with Olympic coach Ben Rosario to expand and update the 80/20 program to include ultramarathon training and such popular developments as the use of power meters.

New research has bolstered the case that the 80/20 method is in fact that most effective way to train for distance running and other endurance sports. Run Like a Pro (Even If You're Slow) shows readers how to take the best practices in elite running and adopt them within the limits of their own ability, lifestyle, and budget.

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Triathlete Findlay claims second elite women's Canadian time trial title

Baril captures silver, Nestman bronze from CyclingNews RSS Feed https://ift.tt/7Psad6q