Helen's Testimonial

Having had a less than successful experience with my first triathlon coach, I was in the market for a new one October 2020 and was concerned that I was ‘uncoachable’ or ‘difficult’ from my first experience.

I set out to speak to more than one coach, having already made this mistake once, and first impressions of Paul (following a recommendation) were encouraging, data driven and approachable, honest and seemed that he could ‘walk the walk’ whilst maintaining focus on his athletes without a relentless ‘buy this, buy that’ approach.

A few calls later and it was down to 2, Paul being my choice and I do not regret it.

Coaching is into Training Peaks in a timely fashion so I know what I am doing well in advance and it is all clear. However, should I need to change anything – no problem, quick request to Paul and it is done. It is also obviously progressive, that is clear from the sessions which build on each other and you can see the gradual results.

Feedback is swift and honest, no ‘pussy footing around’ with Paul, if the session has gone well he will tell you, if he thinks you are not making the most of it he will nudge you, but always in a supportive way. There is also no limit on feedback and it is driven by the data produced so you know how to develop further, and no question is too silly to ask (or too race nerves driven) – I know as I have asked many. Alongside this Paul is a consummate professional in his communication and feedback.

And the results are clear, I joined Paul having had 2nd place in my AG twice at 70.3 distance and wanting to improve my bike especially. A well-structured winter programme has seen that materialise in a bike PB at both events this year, and not by small amounts, along with run PB’s at both too.

But – Paul is not a miracle worker, he provides an excellent progressive framework and feedback based on each individual athlete’s current position and targets, the athlete then has to commit to following this and they will reap the rewards