Starting Where You Are – Ten Conversations From This Week

Back to Work

The start of a new year always brings a burst of energy. Some athletes are trying something completely new. Others are returning to a sport they’ve missed. Over the past few days, I’ve been talking to athletes of all levels, each with a slightly different question, challenge, or goal.

Here’s a snapshot of ten conversations that capture the variety of ways people start, return, or refocus in their swimming, running, and triathlon journeys.

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1. First Long-Distance Swim

A swimmer keen to do her first long-distance swim this year, looking for a combination of coaching sessions, an online programme, and a personalised swim plan.

2. First Ironman, Seeking Swim Support

A runner aiming to complete his first Ironman, looking for structure and plenty of swim support. He’ll soon follow our triathlon programme and join the Swim Squad.

3. Swim Plan Only

A swimmer who can’t make any of our Swim Squad sessions but wants a plan to keep disciplined and improve swim speed.

4. Returning Ironman Athlete

A two-time Ironman athlete who has been self-coached but wants to improve his swim for Ironman Wales. He’ll start joining Swim Squad this month.

5. New Ironman 70.3 Swimmer

A newer athlete targeting his first Ironman 70.3, who “desperately needs to get back swimming.” He’s joining Swim Squad this month.

6. Returning from a Break

An Ironman athlete who took a break from structured coaching is returning to target a fast Ironman 70.3 this summer. He’ll also join Swim Squad.

7. Swim Squad Member Expands Goals

One of our existing Swim Squad swimmers wants to join the triathlon coaching programme to prepare for his first Ironman this year.

8. Running Focus

A new athlete wanting to develop his run, aiming for a 10k and to increase speed. He’s joining our run coaching programme.

9. Returning Swimmer

An ex-competitive swimmer returning to the pool, re-developing endurance and finding speed in the water again via Swim Squad.

10. Online Swim Support

A newer swimmer who cannot make Swim Squad sessions, considering online swim coaching to stay consistent.

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Everyone Starts Somewhere

If you recognised yourself in one of these ten conversations — or somewhere between two of them – you’re not alone. Most athletes don’t arrive with everything figured out. They arrive with a question, a possibility, or a sense that it’s time to do something intentionally.

And that’s exactly where we start.

Progress isn’t about perfection – it’s about starting where you are, asking questions, and taking the first steps toward your goals.

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Where to Go From Here

If you’re thinking about your swimming, triathlon, or running this year, know that where you are is a great place to start. Explore our coaching programmes, Swim Squads, or drop me a message to see what support might work for you.