How’d you get started in triathlon?  You also play tennis…how did you get started in tennis?

In January 2014 a friend called when she realized Boise was hosting an Ironman 70.3 and said: “Let’s do it!”.  I agreed but had one major problem…I didn’t know how to swim.  Shortly after agreeing, I joined Axiom gym and joined their morning swim workout.  On my 1^st day, I swam the whole workout with my head completely out of the water!  Needless to say, I immediately left, got a refund and asked for a swim instructor referral.  This was the beginning of my relationship with Coach Michelle.  I started on the side of the pool blowing bubbles and, with her excellent help, I finally learned to swim after the age of 60!  I have always been a runner and biker and now, with my new swim skills, I am ready to complete an Olympic triathlon this summer.  Michelle continues to coach me towards my goal of completing an Ironman 70.3 this fall.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome in learning how to be a triathlete?

Since working with Michelle I’ve learned that being a well-rounded competitive triathlete is much more than swimming, biking and running.  Keeping balance in your life is highly important.  To that point, Michelle emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition as well as rest…both of which can be difficult.  The hardest part for me – to not worry if I miss a day of training!

What has been the greatest benefit of having a coach (for either sport)?

I cannot imagine accomplishing my goals without a coach.  Michelle provides me with detailed daily training plans and focus points. Without a program to follow, I would not know where to begin!  With Michelle as my coach, I feel confident that I will be fully prepared and injury free for my first Olympic triathlon.

Which of your two sports would you consider “harder” & why?!

Before training for a triathlon my answer, without a doubt, would have been tennis.  But tennis is one sport & triathlon is three sports!  Training for & perfecting technique in three sports is definitely equal to or harder than learning tennis.  This is why I’m so glad to have coaching help along the way!

Thank You Sandy!