Story 2 - Lisa, HR Advisor
I had always wanted to do a triathlon but never thought I would be fit enough to complete one myself. What Theinnergame taught me was that I can achieve a goal if I stick to the program and keep myself motivated and dedicated.
I did my first triathlon on my own in February 2005. At the time, I was training four times a week at a gym. Not long afterwards I was introduced to Theinnergame by a colleague. It seemed like a good way of doing a triathlon.
Theinnergame program was better than my personal training schedule for reaching my specific goal of doing triathlons, because it built in all three varieties of the necessary training - swimming, cycling and running. It was also different because it was a group of people - my work colleagues, and though we were at a mix of fitness levels, we were all training to achieve the same physical goal.
Goal: the BRW Triathlon
When it came to setting the goal, we decided on the BRW triathlon in March in Melbourne. I simply wanted to improve on my performance in my previous triathlon and achieve a personal best, while enjoying the social aspects of the group. My family and friends were very supportive but they thought I was a bit nuts as I'm not particularly strong at running, riding or cycling (which is a bit of a challenge when trying to do a triathlon!).
As the two-month program leading up the BRW Triathlon in March went on, I was gaining fitness as well as learning more about technique - a part that is often missed out. Another plus was that the training sessions were held at convenient locations.
The right attitude
We had three coaches over the course of the program. They were all fantastic. Each trainer had a very different background and I enjoyed their different coaching styles. I was happy to discover that the trainers didn't expect us to be elite athletes and even better, they didn't think they were elites - an attitude which I find can be very de-motivating.
The coaches were athletes who had similar backgrounds to mine. They had all started out setting personal goals and achieved them and they were still working toward personal goals, like the Ironman. I was very motivated by their dedication to their own personal physical goals and their support of us in striving for ours.
The social side of sport
I have always set a lot of personal goals and I have always played team sports such as rowing and hockey. Before Theinnergame I went to the gym four times a week. I quickly realised that this was a different sort of fitness.
The 10 week training program went very quickly. Each week there were group running, bike, and swim group training sessions. There was also a set program to undertake in our own time. I liked the variety of training and the social side of the rides and runs. It didn't feel like you were working out. I initially had doubts about the value of technique training and I was surprised by the positive results. I supplemented the training with weight training once a week.
Realistic expectations
Theinnergame had tailored training programs for everything: the swim, bike and run and the coaches provided upfront a summary of the training requirements. I was relieved because I had thought they would expect us to be able to run four minute kilometres at the outset. They didn't and that was good.
I also liked the fact that they have a good network around Melbourne. Their connections made it very easy for us to find the right people for massages and to get discounts on any gear that we needed. That was another great aspect of the program: it is a very affordable.
One goal achieved, the next one set
When race day came, I found I didn't know how to pace myself and I was nervous about pushing myself too hard. I was comfortable with my results and they were standard for the group I trained with. I just didn't want to have to walk at any time during the race and I was pleased that I didn't have to.
I know I could have stuck to program more than I did. If I had worked harder, I would have got a different result. Next year, I want to compete in the BRW again and improve my time.
I now know that commitment to the training program is essential. I've found that I must be more organised to achieve physical goals so I have stopped wasting time. I also find that I get a start on things more quickly than I used to.
The bottom line
My next goal is the Noosa triathlon in November. I'm very motivated about sticking to the program. Approximately fi ten Fosters colleagues are training for it with me. I enjoy catching up with them on Monday mornings and talking about our weekend training. Theinnergame has brought us closer so we all know each other better now. The program has helped all of us achieve goals we didn't think we could.
I would encourage anyone else who wants to get involved in triathlons or any other sporting goal to contact Paul, Katherine or Brad as they are great and will help you reach your goals.