I’m now 6 months into coaching, and the difference in my understanding, ability and skill has increased dramatically across every facet of triathlon. There are too many learnings and achievements to capture, but here are a few highlights:
CONTROL - Previously, I let my legs and the terrain dictate my output on the bike and run, and my arms dictate the swim. Now, I make calculated conscious decisions about what my body is doing (my output) rather than allowing it to just ‘happen’.
As a result, I can run, bike and swim, at a variety of intensities which I dictate, rather than just letting them happen. This ultimately has come from my ability to feel for my output rather than rely on external signals like a watch. This has taken me too several new 100m PBs in the pool alongside a 400m, 500m and 1000m PB, as well as a longest ever swim, currently 2400m .
I’ve also taken on two 10k races with no watch and put in sub 50 performances, as well as a strong sub 23 min 5k and some very decent run performances off the bike. I have increased my ability to hold a higher power output on the bike by some distance (last check 192w for 20 mins)
CLARITY - My depth of understanding of what is required to race as opposed to just finish has grown enormously. My preparation for each session now is entirely different, with a specific part of my routine involving digesting the session in detail and making sure i understand what I’m trying to learn/improve before I start.
Gone are the days where i just “run 5k”. The level of preparation I’ve been taught to undertake for both prepping for a race and how to deliver a performance are empowering, and even though I’ve only had a few chances to display this so far, I’m looking forward to improving here.
COMPOSURE/FOCUS - A calm and controlled mind results in a calm and controlled performance. Part of the joy of triathlon is its unpredictability and its many interconnected parts. My composure gets tested often, and it's helping me get better at maintaining it. How I start a high intensity run, how i deal with a congested pool, how i compartmentalise and approach a training session, how I speak to myself when sessions get tough; these are ALL areas I’ve gotten better at.
In the round, my ability to show up and do the work has improved significantly because of this too. Its showing in my body, in my brain, in my performance and in my home life.
FINESSE - One of the most elusive but valuable parts of the puzzle. Easing up or down the intensity, how i put on my running shoes, clipping into the bike, how I conduct the first 5 seconds of an hour run session, how I conduct the last 1 minute of a 3 hour session. On their own these pieces don't appear that important, but all together they are paramount.
This is an area I’ve been constantly learning in. I now use my watch appropriately during training (for post session feedback) rather than allowing it to distract me. I’m learning to use my kit to my advantage (how to drink from a water bottle without moving looking or changing intensity as an example).
I could go on for another 5 pages, but in short, I’ve become a stronger, fitter, more driven, more focussed and a better athlete and person overall. I like to think I’ve started the transition from an average amateur athlete to a beginner professional. I’m excited to see how far I can progress.
On COACHING specifically - Working with a coach is the most fulfilling yet often most challenging part of self improvement. It requires you to be humble, vulnerable, admit your shortcomings and hold yourself accountable. If you can face down this uncomfortableness, you can get much much better.
Rodger can be trusted to help you do this, and he has helped me immeasurably. His dedication and passion are quite literally without comparison, as is his vast knowledge of triathlon. Everything I’ve learnt so far can be traced back to his input and guidance. If you truly want to get better, you won't find a better coach.