Training Tri Newbie Mothers a Refreshing Change for Coach

author : CaitlinD

comments : 1

For this group of moms, success was measured by becoming the best version of themselves.

 Triathlon has gained significant popularity amongst women of all ages. It’s no longer just the podium-seeking, ready-to-kill types, but now there are the younger newbies, trying something new, and the motivated moms, looking to find a fun way to escape and get fit. Having coached a variety of athletes over the years, I found the goals, motivations and perceptions of success to be quite unique in one particular group of women… moms.


When I coached a small group of tri newbie moms at Chelsea Piers CT, (ranging in age from 30-50), the 50-meter pool, high-tech cycling software, and run form evaluations were anything but intimidating. Most had never swam more than a lap in the pool, unless it was to chase a thrill-seeking child who had gone overboard. Perfected run form was entirely foreign to them, yet they were attentive and listened and never uttered the words, “I can’t”. Instead, they practiced, took pride, and perfected. They maintained a sense of focus and determination, all while the smell of rivaling competition was conspicuously absent. What was palpable was the innate sense to nurture and support, a refreshing change for this coach.


For these women, escaping life for a mid-morning workout and a little camaraderie were the driving forces. There was no need to be faster or stronger than the person sitting next to them. It wasn’t about CTL, IF, TSS points or w/KG. In fact, I never burdened them with these training terms because it wouldn’t have mattered. They were motivated by learning something new, perfecting it to their own individual standard, and by each other’s personal successes.


Their self-defined success was extremely important to these women and their incredible focus made it impossible for them to fail. For the ultra-competitive athlete, success means lofty time goals and podium pictures. For this group of moms, success was measured by becoming the best version of themselves. One woman’s ultimate success was to be able to swim 800 meters in the pool without stopping while another just wanted to run a few laps with efficient run form.


Most of these ladies had no desire to partake in a race when they began their journey. As their consistency and tenacity grew, so did their physical strength and endurance. It was only a matter of time (8 weeks to be exact) before the goals of these super moms began to morph into something bigger… crossing the finish line into the loving arms of their little ones and achieving THEIR goals. Bravo ladies!


Dedicated to you, Manon!

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date: March 14, 2019