Category: ROCKSTARS

From Being Hit by a Car to Starting his Triathlon Journey: Meet UTC Rockstar Mark Testoni

by fullcircle, posted in Bike, ROCKSTARS, Run, Swim, Ultimate Tri Camp

Rockstar Triathlete: Mark Testoni

Coaches Notes:

Mark and I met a year ago and almost started coaching when he was hit by a car on his bike. We had to postpone training until he recovered, and camp was the perfect kickstart to his training program. He could swim, bike, and run again, so I invited him to join us. 

Since we have three different coaching levels at Ultimate Tri Camp, he started on day one in the C group and had enough fitness to enter the B group on day 2.

I’m super proud of Mark for putting aside his hesitation at being a newbie and simply embracing his own process and learning each day. 

His progress has been impressive, and I’m super excited about his 2024 Tri Season. We will start with a few sprints, move to International Distance, and end the year with a 70.3. 

Let’s Do this, Mark! You are a Rockstar Ultimate Tri Camper!

Age: 68

Profession: I am a semi-retired military and tech industry executive. I am currently Chairman of cBEYONData, a software and tech services firm. 

Why did you choose Ultimate Tri Camp for help in your triathlon journey?
As an older athlete new to the sport, I wanted to learn and hear the experiences of others in the sport. I am pretty much a novice, but I have experience as a modestly successful distance runner from many years ago.
Avid Peloton rider in recent years. Nowhere near a lap pool in 50 years.

Coach Erinne articulated how the camp could help—and it did!

 

Please share your BIG goals and how Ultimate Tri Camp supported you:

1. Understand how to approach training and recovery. Discussions and listening to the experiences of athletes and coaches are all amazingly helpful.

2. Become an effective swimmer at a distance. I arrived at camp with the ability of your average rock—floating was a challenge 😂 . I learned a number of swim drills. I watched and was very much inspired by the rest of the group and their great abilities. I am very motivated to improve—I will soon.

3. Want to complete a 70.3 when ready—so inspired beyond watching and listening to everyone at camp. I’m a determined person, and everyone was so encouraging—I have no doubt I will get there.

Tell me about your successes so far:

I spent my past year recovering from a cycling accident and some secondary physical challenges. Camp timing was perfect as I am starting to ramp up.

1. More confident in the water.

2. Improved running and biking technique.

3. Signed up with FCC for the complete Triathlon Transformation training program!

What were some of your most considerable Improvements in performance at Ultimate Tri Camp?

Swim: Arrived: swimming like a ‘listing ship.’ Departed: drilling properly and more focused.
Bike: Better technique with riding in groups and climbing
Run: Improved body and arm position
Nutrition/Health: Comprehend the purpose of supplements and their use.
Mindset: inspired and highly motivated.

Name 2 or 3 things that have made the most significant difference in your triathlon performance after participating in Ultimate Tri Camp:

1. Inspiration—from the athletes and coaches. Each gave me ideas, lessons, and shared experiences that genuinely moved and motivated me—even more than I could have ever expected.

2. Network—knowing so many others with FCC is a resource, help, and encouragement.

3. Knowledge—learned so much.

What excites you the most about being involved in triathlon? 
It’s the ultimate sport, where you work and compete primarily against yourself to achieve goals, yet collaborate with coaches and other athletes to pursue goals. It transcends specific abilities and drives focus, preparation, and determination. I am very excited to drive toward objectives in parallel with a great team.

What was your favorite part of Ultimate Tri Camp?

I’d be lying if I said it was the ‘ice plunge’ 🧊 😂. The people and camaraderie were second to none. I’ve used the word ‘inspired’ a ton at camp and after. I owe so much to everyone who attended; it boosted my journey.

What would you say to someone on the fence about attending Ultimate Tri Camp?
Go! It’s a safe environment for interested athletes at any level or point in their journey.

Are you coming back next year?
Absolutely

Do you want results like these?

Join us at Ultimate Tri Camp 2025 and learn cutting-edge swim, bike, run, and strength training skills to improve your speed and efficiency.

Ultimate Tri Camp is a 7-day event guaranteed to improve physical and mental performance.
 The Ultimate Tri Camp experience touches your soul and empowers your performance like nothing you’ve ever tried.  It’s the perfect venue to fine-tune your training and get you RACE READY!

All level triathletes are welcome.  Our triathlon camp programs are specifically designed to zone in and strengthen skills based on your athletic level.

Register before April 15, 2024, and get 30% off the registration fee (payment plans available). Click here to register today!

 

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, and more.

Even Coaches Can Benefit from UTC! – Heather’s Rockstar Story

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS, Run, Swim, Ultimate Tri Camp

Rockstar Triathlete: Heather Shrouds

Coaches Notes: Heather reached out in January, excited to be able to get such a great discount on Ultimate Tri Camp as a USAT certified USAT Coach, earn her CEUs, AND learn the “behind the scenes ” about how I coach my athletes and the Full Circle Coaching Methodology. 

I love being able to support USA Triathlon coaches in the application of their knowledge.

There are many different coaching styles, but with my 27 years of experience coaching thousands of triathletes and hosting over 20 triathlon camps, I believe that including training in more than just swimming, biking, and running is imperative to keeping a triathlete doing the sport they love for a lifetime. 

At Camp, Heather saw firsthand how to coach the campers on the importance of technique in the swim, bike and running can prevent injuries from overusing the repetitive motion of a triathlon with the use of video analysis and metabolic field testing. Learning breath work, Kihara stretching, Eldoa spine strength, foot strength, and so much more can impact her triathlon performance and help her coach the athletes she is coaching. 

Thanks, Heather, for coming in with an open mind and participating fully at Ultimate Tri Camp. You have so many new tools to implement into your coaching practice! You are a true Rockstar Coach/ and Camper!

—

Age: 48

Profession: Personal Trainer and Triathlon Coach

Why did you choose Ultimate Tri Camp for help in your triathlon journey?
I was at this triathlon camp to earn my CECs for my USAT Certification and improve my form in my swim and run. I knew something was off, but I was still determining what to expect. This was my first triathlon camp ever!

Please share your BIG goals and how Ultimate Tri Camp supported you:
My big goals are to swim 750m under 15 minutes, bike 20+mph, and run a 20-minute 5k
I started my weight loss journey in the fall of 2009. I have lost 100 lbs so far. I fell in love with Triathlon after my first swim, even though I was terrified of the open water. Triathlon and Duathlon Worlds and I have qualified for and competed in Age Group Nationals.

Tell me about your successes so far:

Swim – being more efficient and converting to breathing every 2 strokes instead of 3
Bike – getting my love back for riding outside.  I had been riding on the trainer a lot because of life schedule.   Riding in Clermont during Ultimate Tri Camp was beautiful, and riding in traffic was challenging, but I overcame my fear with the group’s safety.
Run – seeing my form on video during the video analysis and the corrections we made.

What were some of your biggest Improvements in performance at Ultimate Tri Camp?
I learned even more about my gut health. I love the ELDOA, meditation, and yoga. Honestly, it all was excellent.
1) Getting my love back for riding outside
2) Recovery strategies 
3) The Magnesium cream and Perfect Aminos are a game changer

What was your favorite part of Ultimate Tri Camp?
The camaraderie and the edge of competing with everyone—all of it, honestly. If I had to pick the ELDOAs, I have never done them before, but they’re a game changer for sure.

Are you coming back next year?
Yes, I plan on it!

Ready to get your best time yet?! Here’s how you can get access to Ultimate Tri Camp!

UTC 2025 will be held February 17-23, 2025 in Clearwater, Florida.

As one of our valued subscribers, you can take advantage of 30% off of registration if you claim your spot before April 15, 2024.

Click here to pay in full.

Click here for the payment plan.

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, and more.

From Heart Condition to Sprint Triathlon PR – Mark Fajet

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS, Run, Swim

Rockstar Triathlete: Mark Fajet

Coaches Notes:

I was definitely a little concerned with Mark’s prior heart condition when we started training, so I was extremely conservative about his progression through the training program. Prioritizing technique over tons of volume and gradually adding speed work in all three sports has proved effective. His results below are amazing! I am so proud of you, Mark. You are a Rockstar Triathlete with a lot of potential in the sport. Thanks for trusting the process and being open to learning a better way to train!

—

Age: 27

Profession: Software Engineer

Why did you choose FCC to help you on your triathlon/health and wellness journey?
I wanted to do triathlons, but then I was diagnosed with pericarditis after going to the ER with heart pains. I managed to get through it with no training for months. Then I did a triathlon on my own, but my training for it was very calm as I was worried to push myself. I joined full circle because Erinne was very supportive of easing me into higher loads of training and safely pushing myself.

What is your “A” race for this season?
Ironman 70.3 Haines City, December 2024

What are your BIG goals?
Complete an Ironman 70.3 this year and a Full Ironman next year.

What were some of your biggest improvements in performance for each of the following? Swim, Bike, Run, and Nutrition/Health. Please include any Personal Records and Goals achieved.our biggest improvements:
In the beginning, I was setting goals of running a 5k in under 30 minutes. Five months later, after joining the Triathlon Transformation Program, I ran a 5k in 24:45 and a 5k at the end of a sprint tri in 27:25

Before the program, my average bike pace at a sprint triathlon was 15.3mph. In the latest triathlon, my average pace was 19.96 mph.

Beyond the timing numbers, the biggest improvement was in my ability to run while keeping my heart rate low and stay in zone 2. Before the program, I would be running like a 16 minute mile in zone 2. Now, I am around 12 minute miles while in zone 2.

Name 2 or 3 things that have made the biggest difference in your journey.
Consistency and pushing my limits. Prior to joining full circle, all my workouts were too easy and I wasn’t really making as much progress.

What excites you the most about being involved in triathlon? 
The fact that there is always room for improvement and that I can see what I’m able to achieve when I put in the work.

What would you say to another person who was on the fence about joining our training program?
The coaches are very knowledgeable. They are able to provide lots of general information, specific information for you, and even specific information about race courses.

Do you want results like these?

Click this link: http://www.scheduleyou.in/5ZIsVaU to schedule your FREE Triathlon Transformation Session today!

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, and much more.

Ultimate Tri Camp Rockstar Dean Kennedy

by fullcircle, posted in Blogs, ROCKSTARS, Ultimate Tri Camp

Ultimate Tri Camp Rockstar Dean Kennedy

Coach Notes:

Dean came to camp with an open mind and heart. We met on Facebook, and he and his partner Kathy decided to join us. They are both veteran triathletes, and I genuinely appreciate their curiosity, and the results for Dean speak for themselves.

Dean’s improvement day after day was inspiring to see. Participating in the training and all the recovery sessions we do at camp is essential to leaving camp feeling great! Check out all his great feedback and successes below. Way to show up for yourself, Dean! The results on race day will be there!

Age:

53

Profession:

VP of Plastic Injection Tooling

Why did you choose Ultimate Tri Camp for help in your journey as a triathlete?

I had come across Full Circle on FB over a year ago and loved Coach Erinne’s ideology and approach to training. After speaking with her and listening to some of her videos, I signed up for camp with my partner Kathy.

Please share your BIG goals and how Ultimate Tri Camp supported you:

Goal #1 was to learn how to swim. In the past few years, I’ve spent lots of money and time on private lessons and frustrations in the pool and open water, all to little avail.

I got just enough to push through my two full Ironman races.

UTC was nothing short of transformative for me!

There was so much comprehensive instruction, drills, video analysis, and proper technique/mechanics teaching that it nearly made my head pop.

It was almost too much to take in all in one day, but the lessons and Coach’s voice are etched into my mind so that I can now work with everything I learned. Coach Erinne also took extra time after the group lesson to give me 10-15 minutes of personal coaching, which I learned more than in months of prior lessons.

At the OWS, I took my first successful breaths to the left side, which was like a miracle! I’m so proud and grateful for this seemingly small detail, so I chose this picture. I know now that I AM a swimmer and will only continue to improve from here. Who knew?!! 🙌🏼

Tell me about your successes so far:

Going from not owning a bike or knowing how to swim (as of Fall 2018) to completing two 70.3 and two 140.6 Ironman races by 2022.

What were some of your biggest Improvements in performance at Ultimate Tri Camp?

Swim: EVERYTHING- Left side breathing, balance, feeling the water, relaxing, rotation, etc., etc.
Bike: maintaining low heart rate on climbs
Run: proper cadence and arm position
Nutrition/Health: reinforcing what Kathy has already instilled in me: eat real, nutrient-dense foods, healthy fats, remove inflammatory foods, and nothing processed.
Mindset: I AM A SWIMMER (did I say this already?!)

Did you achieve any Personal Records or Goals?

Did I already mention left-side breathing?! 😂

Name 2 or 3 things you feel will make the biggest difference in your triathlon performance after participating in Ultimate Tri Camp:

  1. Proper swimming techniques
  2. Triathlon-specific strength training
  3. Mobility exercises

What excites you the most about being involved in triathlon?

The challenge to push my limits and “dare to fail greatly.” Also, the sport’s camaraderie and “pageantry” (who doesn’t like their bike gear and kit!)

What was your favorite part of Ultimate Tri Camp?

The incredible depth/breadth of the holistic training. It was truly the yin & yang, just like the Full Circle logo represents!

What would you say to someone on the fence about attending Ultimate Tri Camp?

Straddling a fence is painful! Get your ass to UTC, and you’ll never regret it.

CURIOUS ABOUT FULL CIRCLE’S TRIATHLON TRANSFORMATION PROGRAM?
YOU, TOO, CAN BECOME THE TRIATHLETE YOU ALWAYS DREAMED OF!
APPLY HERE!

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. Creator of Triathlon Transformation. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997. She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, Mermaid, and much more.

Sexy in Spandex, Ultimate Tri Camp Rockstar Triathlete: John Dodds

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS, Ultimate Tri Camp

Sexy in Spandex, Ultimate Tri Camp Rockstar Triathlete: John Dodds

Coach Notes:

John loves the triathlon lifestyle and exemplifies someone committed to the long term. Just as with any athlete in any sport, there is always something to improve upon, and I am so proud of how John has kept triathlon in his life even as he overcame prostate cancer and fear in the open water. We were with him every step of the way. So proud of you, John; let’s keep the momentum going. See you soon at the Ride on Ryan Triathlon!

Age:

60 this year!

Profession:

Director of Information Technology Quality

Why did you choose Ultimate Tri Camp for help in your triathlon journey?

In 2017 I saw a triathlon on TV and thought, I want to do this. A month before my 1st race, I participated in a one-day camp in Savannah with Coach Erinne from Full Circle Coaching, which was eye-opening.

At my race a few weeks later (at the Ride On Ryan Triathlon), an 80-year-old woman beat me silly at the finish line. I then decided Full Circle Coaching would be my coach.

Full Circle made me realize that Triathlon is a sport and a lifestyle.

It’s more than swimming, biking, or running: it’s mind, it’s spirit, it’s grit, it’s heart, and nutrition, it’s what you put in is what you get out.

Full Circle coaching is a full-spectrum, holistic mindfulness program.

And they’ll make you “Sexy in Spandex.”

Please share your BIG goals and how Ultimate Tri Camp supported you:

This year will be my 5th year at camp, and every year brings a new awareness. This year was big in swimming challenge awareness. I always wonder why I could swim 2000 meters in a pool and feel I had a great workout.

But swim 50 yards in a lake only to find myself floating, gasping for air, wondering where the buoy was. I realized this year, I never knew how to sight swim. Every time I lifted my head, my legs sank, and my body stopped like a bobber, then I power swam to get going again.

So, learning to relax in the water was my big takeaway. Camp addresses every conceivable concept and potential challenge.

Tell me about your successes so far:

Where do I start? From childhood to 53, I was an average joe who did not do sports. No run, bike, or swim, more like walk, joy ride, and wade on occasion.

From 54 through today, the last 6yrs??? I’ve raced about 24 triathlons and 18 5K/10K/Bridge runs, and have enjoyed training multi-thousands of miles of running, biking, swimming, and unicycling.

And let’s not forget survived and kicked prostate cancer!

Full Circle and the Ultimate Tri Camp… Bring it on!! I’m ready for their assistance with my next big triathlon goals!

What were some of your biggest Improvements in performance at Ultimate Tri Camp?

Swim: Technique and sighting
Bike: Heels down to utilize power; changing gears is my friend, and keep pedaling, limit coasting
Run: Lean forward and move the elbows
Nutrition/Health: If I eat healthy, the right foods, my mind, energy, and focus will always be there for me
Mindset: If I put my mind to it, grit it through, and be open to the experience, I am guaranteed to be smiling at the finish line. Have you ever seen a finisher of a race not smiling??? I bet you have not 😊

Did you achieve any Personal Records or Goals?

Every year with FullCircle and participating in Camp, I have achieved PRs. And every year, my PRs are different but so very satisfying.

Name 2 or 3 things you feel will make the biggest difference in your triathlon performance after participating in Ultimate Tri Camp:

  1. Motivation, Intensity
  2. Commitment, Focus, and knowing my “pain point” in my training
  3. Resetting my desire, goals, and expectations for the rest of the year

What excites you the most about being involved in triathlon?

It’s multi-focal, I’m never bored, and it’s always active even while just breathing meditation/intention. And it makes me feel fantastic; It makes me look Hot and Sexy. In the end? It makes me happy being me 😊

What was your favorite part of Ultimate Tri Camp?

Hard to say, but I can tell you the worst part is saying goodbye and going home. Because every moment was an experience I cherish, even when I found myself sitting in my own “shit.”

I learned, I absorbed, I connected, and I experienced!

What would you say to someone on the fence about attending Ultimate Tri Camp?

When was there a time when you got 360-degree support and assistance with triathlon training? When have you had a group of people wanting you to personally succeed as much as you do for yourself? When have you taken the opportunity to learn, educate, absorb, avoid pitfalls, and identify success in action? If you haven’t, join us at camp; it will change your life!

Are you coming back next year?

Already registered, so absolutely!

Want to join us at ULTIMATE TRI CAMP 2024?

Camp is right around the corner – February 26 – March 3rd.

But There’s still time! Sign up here!

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. Creator of Triathlon Transformation. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997. She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, Mermaid, and much more.

5th Place Overall Female At 8 Mile Swim Race – Rockstar Triathlete Swimmer Christine Coppola

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS

5th Place Overall Female At 8 Mile Swim Race – Rockstar Triathlete Swimmer Christine Coppola

COACH’S NOTES:

Yes, you’ve heard about Christine before, but I just had to give a shout out about her awesome swimming success!

She grew up a swimmer and knows how to swim but is still thriving as an adult, working on form and technique to achieve big dreams and goals.

We do not get to train together in person because of her work and family schedule, but she follows the workouts and asks questions in our group chat with access to all the coaches and the rest of the tribe. We review her technique on the monthly video analysis zoom calls and keep her on track toward the dream goal.

So many veteran triathletes think there is nothing more they can do to get faster and stronger but nothing could be further from the truth. I KNOW every single athlete I work with can implement my systems and continue to improve race after race after race. There is no limit!

Way to trust the process Christine, your attention to the details are paying off dividends.

Let’s get that sub 5 hour 70.3; You are so Ready!

ABOUT THE ATHLETE

AGE:

45 (shhh lol)

PROFESSION:

Vice President, Human Resources at NBCUniversal 

WHY YOU CHOSE FCC TO HELP YOU ON YOUR TRIATHLON/HEALTH AND WELLNESS JOURNEY?

To stay focused and organized and tap into expertise. 

WHAT IS YOUR “A” RACE FOR THIS SEASON?

Alligator Lighthouse Swim, maybe one more before the end of 2022 – TBD!

PLEASE SHARE YOUR BIG GOALS: 

I would love to keep doing long, open water swims and get faster swimming, I would love to do another full ironman in 2023.  

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR SUCCESSES SO FAR:

This year I did two 70.3s and felt really good getting back to racing more.  Last weekend’s 8 mile Alligator Lighthouse open water Swim was a big accomplishment for me – I went in just wanting to finish strong but really wanting to finish top 10. 

I was really happy with my performance and the execution went really well. 

WHAT WERE SOME OF YOUR BIGGEST IMPROVEMENTS IN PERFORMANCE FOR THE EACH OF THE FOLLOWING? SWIM, BIKE, RUN, AND NUTRITION/HEALTH. PLEASE INCLUDE ANY PERSONAL RECORDS AND GOALS ACHIEVED: 

Swim – able to do an 8M swim in open water and get 5th place; Bike – had a great bike split in Eagleman; Run – felt so great on the run for Eagleman as well.  Nutrition – participated in the Nutrition Reset and Nutrition Essentials this year which I think had a huge impact on my ability to perform but also just feel so much better.  I’ve cleaned up my diet, but also have taken the time to do things like meditate as a result and it helps me in all areas of my life – athletics, professional and personal. 

NAME 2 OR 3 THINGS THAT HAVE MADE THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE IN YOUR JOURNEY:

  1. Nutrition and holistic approach to cleaning up lifestyle
  2. Race preparation:  taking the time to visualize, prepare and plan makes a huge difference in execution on race day
  3. Giving up control a bit and listening – doing things differently than perhaps I was used to in the past. 

WHAT EXCITES YOU THE MOST ABOUT BEING INVOLVED IN TRIATHLON?

Feeling good and being active; racing

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO ANOTHER PERSON WHO WAS ON THE FENCE ABOUT JOINING OUR TRAINING PROGRAM?

What do you have to lose?  It is so helpful to have the counsel and input of coaches who have the experience and expertise. 

JOIN US FOR SWIM ESSENTIALS CLINIC – February 17th & 18th!

It’s an amazing opportunity to be in the water with our expert coaches getting hands on instruction to power up your swim!

READY TO REGISTER? CLICK HERE!

USE PROMO CODE SWIM100 TO SAVE $100 ON REGISTRATION!

Or, click this link: https://go.appointmentcore.com/book/umg5sS to schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session to see if this program is for you!

Erinne Guthrie is a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. Creator of Triathlon Transformation. She has been training, racing and coaching triathletes since 1997. She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, Mermaid and much much more.

I’m shocked at how I feel in the water: Rockstar Swimmer Frantz Dunel

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS

I’m shocked at how I feel in the water: Swim Testimonial, Frantz Dunel

Coach’s Notes:
Frantz has come a very long way in the swim. Already a very strong runner, we started training for a sprint triathlon.

The swim was definitely his limiter. Being so strong, it can sometimes be difficult to learn that in the swim its all about being SMOOTH, and not pushing hard. After joining my Swim Essentials program and learning the step by step progression of learning how to swim freestyle for triathlon, Frantz has learned how to glide and relax more in the water so he can save energy to then be able to bike and run strong.

Congratulations Frantz, you are officially a SWIMMER!

Why did you want to learn to swim?
1) Well I never knew that I didn’t know how to swim SWIM until FC asked me to swim a few laps in the pool. Jumping off a boat and waddling around for a few minutes or a few strokes to the edge of the pool is not real swimming is what I realized. I wanted to learn the proper technique to further challenge myself, be able to compete in triathlons and to continue being as well rounded as possible for my kids. We live in Miami, we are always traveling to beach destinations or in a pool. Swimming is critical.

What was the hardest part in the process?
2) The hardest part was overcoming the mindset that it was impossible for me to become a swimmer because I had not been doing it for 10+ years like the rest of the group or swimmers at the pool. Swimming I have found to be one of the most challenging sports because it is extremely technical. I found and still find it difficult to put all the pieces together in order to swim “effortlessly”…balance, proper pull, full rotation on the side for breathing, long reach, straight legs and kicking from the hips etc etc.

How does it feel different in the water vs 6 months ago?
3) I am proud and somewhat shocked at how I feel in the water today vs 6 months ago. Aside from the exhausting swim workouts, I genuinely look forward to getting in the water as I feel much more comfortable and confident. As I swim my laps I can hear Coach Erinne in my head and I use that to correct my form, slow down and try and glide vs a frantic gasping for my next breath.

I look forward to moving up to the Olympic distance in May!

JOIN US FOR SWIM ESSENTIALS CLINIC – February 17th & 18th!

Day 1: February 17th. Meet us at Miami Dade College South Campus Pool (9:00 am – 2:00 pm).

Day 2: February 18th. Meet us at our Full Circle Training Spot on Key Biscayne (8:30 am – 12:00 pm)

It’s an amazing opportunity to be in the water with our expert coaches getting hands on instruction to power up your swim!

Ready to Register? Click Here!

Use promo code SWIM100 to save $100 on registration until 2/7/24!


Or, click this link: https://go.appointmentcore.com/book/umg5sS to schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session to see if this program is for you!

Erinne Guthrie is a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. Creator of the 16 week Triathlon Transformation. She has been training, racing and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, Mermaid and much much more.

Rockstar Swimmer Christine Baldwin Focuses on Progress over Perfection

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS

Rockstar Swimmer: Christine Baldwin

Coaches Notes: Christine participated in the open water session for swim essentials and our Ransom Everglades weekly pool sessions and has dramatically improved in the last month. She has already improved in just 2 months.

From telling me, “No” I can’t do that, to; “I’m working on it,” to “I can feel the difference”

Yes, this is called progress!

She just completed the Swim Miami Mile and has now signed on to train for the 8-mile Alligator Lighthouse open water as part of a 3-person relay.

Thank you so much, Christine, for trusting Full Circle and our process to break through some old barriers. I’m loving your progress so far and am even more excited for the next adventure with the Alligator Lighthouse Swim.

Age: 54

Profession: Manufacturing (yes, in Miami)!

Why did you choose Swim Essentials to help with your swimming skills?

It was time to revamp my swim stroke and breathing.  I had already had a good experience with Erinne, who introduced me to OWS at a swim clinic in 2009!  I’ve been enjoying it off and on ever since (through 1 Full Ironman, about 4 halves, and countless swim Miami’s – all very slow), and a running injury later…  I figured it was finally time for more instruction😊. And Swimming is so low impact I can take it into my future decades. 


Please share your BIG swim goals:

I’m so excited about exposure to new challenges and taking on the Alligator Lighthouse Relay.  I can’t wait for the beautiful water of the Florida Keys!  

Tell me about your success at Swim Miami 2023:

After only working with Erinne for a few weeks and correcting my breathing, I could actually enjoy the swim course since I was taking on more oxygen. 

What were some of your biggest improvements:

I was far more relaxed and even paced due to breathing properly. 

This freed me up to use some new skills for sighting buoys, contributing to less bumping into others and meandering on the course.   

I still need to work on this, but I look forward to improvements from tweaking other aspects of my swim stroke.

Confession: I’m not a fan of metrics and times since I tend to chase endorphins and the expansive feel of long-course racing… but I’m curious about what using a Coach, swim watch, and training with other swimmers can newly develop.  Trying these new things is making routine training exciting again.

What would you say to someone on the fence about participating in our Swim Essentials program?

By removing the barriers to open water swimming, you can discover a sport that can keep you active into your future decades.  All while getting outside on beautiful beaches and meeting some of the most active, disciplined, AND fun-loving folks around. 

Are you interested in improving your swimming?

Click this link: http://www.scheduleyou.in/5ZIsVaU to schedule your FREE Swim Breakthrough Session today!

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997.  She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, and much more.

The Sky Is The Limit for Rockstar Triathlete Maria Picton

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS

Coaches Notes:

Maria reached out to me after she qualified to Nationals in the summer of 2023. She wanted to be sure she was ready to compete there so she flew in to Miami from North Carolina and we did all of her evaluations in person: Swim Video, Run Video, Bike Fit, Swim Bike and Run tests too. From all of this we have been able to coach her virtually through my Triathlon Transformation program.

The weekly coach calls help keep her feeling connected to the team, as well as the monthly video analysis reviews. And of course the daily training on her Training peaks specific to her needs and goals.

Some of her big wins were as follows:

Swim– She went from 40 strokes across the pool to 20 strokes in 25 yards, which equals improvement in energy and speed. She also went from a full-blown panic attack at Nationals to cool as a cucumber in her last triathlon race of the season in Key West, where she got 1st place on the podium in her age group!

Bike- With her new bike fit, she could actually push and create more speed with better pressure all the way around the pedal stroke. She zoom zoomed on the bike in Key West!

Run- with the run video analysis, we improved arm swing, foot strike, and Steps per minute (SPM) to increase speed on her 5k, even off the bike!

Way to go, Maria! I am so super proud of all of your Rockstar accomplishments in 2023.

Let’s get 2024- We got this!

What is your age?

60

What is your profession?:

Oncologist in North Carolina

Why did you choose FCC to help you on your triathlon/health and wellness journey?

I have been following Full Circle Coaching since I started participating in triathlons for fun. I noticed their athletes always excel at competitions. I wanted more out of my training and to reach my full potential. “The sky is the limit!” is my Mantra!

What is/ was your “A” race for this season?

April 13th- The Ride on Ryan Sprint Triathlon in Savannah, Georgia

What are your BIG goals?

I want to become a stronger (physically and mentally) triathlete.

Tell me about your successes so far! What were some of your biggest improvements in performance for each of the following? Swim, Bike, Run, and Nutrition/Health. 

After panicking in the water at Nationals in August of 2023, it was an accomplishment to swim through my fears. The swim video assessment and the corrective drills have made an incredible difference, cutting my pace by 30 to 45 seconds/ 100.

The bike fit was also a game changer. I felt more in control and became faster.
I have also become a faster runner from the video analysis, run drills, and speed workouts.

Name 2 or 3 things that have made the biggest difference in your journey:

  1. Training with consistency.
  2. The Full Circle coaches are available to answer any questions, as well as the weekly coaching calls.
  3. Rest and mindfulness.

What excites you the most about being involved in running/triathlon?

It is a sport that challenges your body and mental toughness. Being surrounded by healthy individuals with a positive attitude.

What would you say to another person who was on the fence about joining our training program?

It is a game-changer. Virtual coaching is excellent, but take advantage of in-person training, too, if possible!

Do you want results like these? My 16-week Triathlon Transformation Training Program is designed to help you get faster for your next triathlon in less time than other training programs.

The Triathlon Transformation Program focuses on you as an individual; your form, technique, strength, fueling, and mindset. Through video analysis, metabolic testing, holistic lifestyle coaching, and a supportive community, you will achieve all your triathlon dreams and goals to get faster in less time.

If you want to show up confidently at the start of your next race — swimming, biking, and running past the competition, sprinting across the finish line with arms overhead, knowing you nailed it — then this program is for you.

Click here to apply for my 16-Week Triathlon Transformation Program.

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. Creator of Triathlon Transformation. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997. She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, Mermaid, and much more.

Rockstar Triathlete Walt Norton Finds Success Through Balance

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS

Rockstar Triathlete Walt Norton Finds Success Through Balance

Coaches Notes:

Walt joined my 16-week Triathlon Transformation program to get on the podium in a triathlon.

We got right to work with all of his evaluations- Swim video analysis above and below water, bike fit, bike test and run test and video analysis, and, of course, my Nutrition Essentials lifestyle evaluation.

Walt is a busy lawyer, husband, and father, so having a training program and lifestyle suggestions that fit into HIS life was critical for his success.

The results speak for themselves- See them listed below. Hint: Hint!- way more than one podium!

I am super proud of you, Walt; You are a true Rockstar Triathlete. Knowledge is not power, but applied knowledge is. Way to take the information we gave you and use it to achieve YOUR TRIATHLON DREAMS! Thanks so much for choosing Full Circle Coaching for your Triathlon Journey- I can’t wait to see what is next for you!

About The Athlete:

What is your age?

52

What is your profession?:

Attorney

Why did you choose FCC to help you on your triathlon/health and wellness journey?

With the very limited time available due to my professional commitments and family responsibilities, I needed the most effective workouts that could be completed within the shortest amount of time. Being new to triathlon, and to swimming in particular, I needed comprehensive instruction delivered quickly in all phases of triathlon. While I had been a consistent runner in the past, assistance was needed with nutrition to become a better athlete overall.

What is/ was your “A” race for this season?

Key West Int’l Triathlon, 2023

What are your BIG goals?

  • Complete a 70.3 within 6 hours in 2024
  • Complete an Int’l Tri within 2 hours, 15 minutes
  • Complete a Sprint Tri within 1 hour

Tell me about your successes so far! What were some of your biggest improvements in performance for each of the following? Swim, Bike, Run, and Nutrition/Health. 

After joining FCT, the following results were achieved:

  • Aug 20, 2023, Key Largo Sprint Tri – 1st AG
  • Sept 24, 2023, Key Biscayne Sprint Tri – 1st in FCT group
  • Nov 12, 2023, MiamiMan Sprint Tri – 3rd AG
  • Dec 3, 2023, Weston 10k road race – 4th AG (out of 17) with a PR of 3+ minutes
  • Dec 10, 2023, Key West Int’l Tri – Finished in the top 44% overall for the first time, moving up to this longer distance.

Name 2 or 3 things that have made the biggest difference in your journey:

  1. Analyzing each workout after it is finished.
  2. Completing the workout early.
  3. Keeping the correct balance between non-triathlon responsibilities and training.

What excites you the most about being involved in running/triathlon?

Being fit going on 55 with more energy during the rest of the day and night compared to people much younger than me. Thinking my way through a triathlon race – a triathlon is like putting together a puzzle that is never the same no matter how many times you do it. Meeting time goals and/or finishing on the podium.

What would you say to another person who was on the fence about joining our training program?

Do it now! What are you waiting for? There is always time in the day, no matter how busy you think you are. I did my first few triathlons on a mountain bike and by swimming a sidestroke/breaststroke.

Do you want results like these? My 16-week Triathlon Transformation Training Program is designed to help you get faster for your next triathlon in less time than other training programs.

The Triathlon Transformation Program focuses on you as an individual; your form, technique, strength, fueling, and mindset. Through video analysis, metabolic testing, holistic lifestyle coaching, and a supportive community, you will achieve all your triathlon dreams and goals to get faster in less time.

If you want to show up confidently at the start of your next race — swimming, biking, and running past the competition, sprinting across the finish line with arms overhead, knowing you nailed it — then this program is for you.

Click here to apply for my 16-Week Triathlon Transformation Program.

Erinne Guthrie has been a USA Triathlon Level II Certified Coach since 1999 and Chief Motivating Officer at Full Circle Coaching, LLC since 2010. Creator of Triathlon Transformation. She has been training, racing, and coaching triathletes since 1997. She is also a CHEK Holistic Lifestyle Coach Level 3, USMS Master’s Swim Coach, Motivational Speaker, Metabolic Efficiency Specialist, Mom, Mermaid, and much more.