Tag: Running

I started an end of year diet

by fullcircle, posted in Blogs, Mindset

I started an end-of-year diet

It’s not the type of diet you’re probably thinking, although I do have to be careful this year of how much Halloween candy and then Christmas cookies I’ll down.

I’m talking about going on a distractions diet.

See, unless you starve your distractions, you can’t feed your focus the right things.

I’d argue that with the upcoming holidays, end of year events, and more, unless you are intentional with where you choose to place your focus, the fourth quarter will be a flop rather than a strong finish that each of us probably wants.

A strong finish starts with being clear on our intentions and following through with aligned actions.

Intention is asking ourselves:

  • What do I need to focus on? (not ‘want’ to focus on)
  • What distracted me yesterday from doing strong work?
  • What could distract me today if I’m not careful?

Write it down.

Put it on paper so you can put a plan together instead of trying to do it all in your head.

After you set the intention, you build a plan of action.

You often don’t get nearly as much done as you want to because you are constantly getting distracted by things we have the power to silence.

  • Close your email browser and instead set an alarm for 3x times day you’ll check it (7am, 12pm, 4pm). Stay out of your inbox otherwise.
  • Turn off ALL social media notifications. You don’t need to know the second someone liked your Facebook or Instagram post.
  • Turn OFF your phone ringer. This will keep new emails, text messages and alerts from pulling your attention out of necessary work to check them.
  • Turn ON your alarm. Set a timer for 30-minute windows. Dive into a project and when the alarm goes off, stretch your legs, go outside if possible and put your feet on the ground, grab some spring water or fist bump a teammate. Repeat every 30 minutes.

If you want to feed your focus, you’ve got to learn to starve your distractions.

Some distractions are outside of our control, but many of them?

We 100% own the power to silence them, we just simply choose not to.

If we want to win this quarter, we have to choose where we put our focus.

Thanks, Jake Thompson, for this great reminder.

Let’s finish the year strong; We are cheering for you.

Are you looking for help with this and your nutrition- Still time to join or Nutrition and Lifestyle essentials program. All the details are here and we start tomorrow.

Set up your call with me HERE to answer any questions.

Check out my Nutrition Essentials program here!

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.

Sub 7 Hours for 70.3 Rockstar Triathlete Carmen Lotti

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS

Sub 7 Hours for 70.3 Rockstar Triathlete Carmen Lotti

Coach’s Notes:

Carmen started with me just before her 70.3 in Puerto Rico in March 2022. I knew her goal was sub-seven, but we didn’t have the time to get her there for that race, but I was confident we would do it for the next one. And guess what? She did it!

We started with her video analysis and testing. She had plenty of fitness and all the best equipment but was not getting into the details of her technique in the swim, bike, and run and using her training zones correctly to achieve the goal.

After the evaluations and testing, the training began, but it was different from anything she had done before. First, we taught her about pacing, timing her nutrition, and that she needed to train by her numbers and then race by her numbers to achieve the desired goal of a sub 7, 70.3.

Mental skills were a critical step in the process- transforming the negative self-talk with tapping and EFT and hitting the goals in training helped her see to believe what is possible.

Were there setbacks? Yes!

Did we keep repeating the process of video, testing, adjusting the zones, training, and slowly but steadily improving? YES, and it worked as it always does.

The recipe I have for my athletes in my Triathlon Transformation Training program is not complicated, but you must complete the steps, do the work, and really want it. And the work includes having a healthy balance in lifestyle and triathlon as well as all I mentioned above.

Thank You, Carmen- for trusting me with the process and continuing to push through when those doubts crept in! I could not be more proud of you, and YES- sub 6:30 in Puerto Rico is the next goal.

LET’S DO THIS!!!

Age:

62

Profession:

Retired Miami-Dade Fire Rescue IT Senior Systems & Networks Administrator

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

I switched to online coaching during the Pandemic. However, that did not work for me, so I started looking for a local coach to help me improve my swim and run as I am a strong cyclist. I had already been doing triathlons for the past seven years without much improvement and was looking for a coach that could help me move forward. I had seen coach Erinne in action at local events and attended a few of her briefings at the Miami Man Triathlon throughout the years. I admired that Coach Erinne not only coached and actively participated in Triathlons but also involved herself, her Full Circle coaches, and Tribe to assist Team ThumbsUp pulling quadriplegic Kerry Gruson and others during local triathlon races. That is a fantastic way of giving back to the Community.

Also, I was curious to be coached by a woman. Coach Erinne, her Coaches, and her Full Circle Tribe checked all the boxes.

What is your “A” race for this season?

My “A” race for this season was Ironman 70.3 North Carolina, which I completed on 10/15/2022 and achieved my goal of doing in less than 7 hours.

Please share your BIG goals:

My big goal is to do Ironman 70.3, Puerto Rico, in less than 6:30 and get a podium. Being Miss Puerto Rico 1981 for the Miss Universe Pageant, it would be a dream come true to represent again my beautiful Island but this time in a sporting event.

Tell me about your successes so far:

In the past eight years, I have completed 8 Half Irons (7 Ironman brand and 1 Miami Man 70.3), over 40 Sprint/International/Olympic Triathlons, 4 Long Distance AquaBikes, 2 Full Marathons, 7 Half Marathons, 4 5K Runs and 1 10K Run. With very few exceptions, I have a podium in most Triathlons and a podium in the 10K Run. I was part of Team USA Long Course AquaBike for ITU Pontevedra, Spain, World Championships in 2019. I look forward to more success now that I am part of the Full Circle Tribe.

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:

I came to Coach Erinne with many bad habits, insecurities, and poor techniques I had developed over the years.

My nutrition was not on point, and my mental strength was weak. I considered myself a big challenge for her.

However, I am now:
Eating healthier
Training smarter
Getting stronger
Stretching and resting more
Happier with myself and
Correcting my form in all three sports.

I just got a Swim Personal Record of 35 minutes in an Ironman 70.3 1.2 mile Open Water Swim (my prior record was 43 minutes).
I also got an Ironman 70.3 Half Marathon Run Personal Record of 2:57 (my previous record was 3 hours). I finally achieved my goal of doing an Ironman 70.3 in less than 7 hours which I did in 6:50 thanks to Full Circle Coaching.

“I finally achieved my goal of doing an Ironman 70.3 in less than 7 hours which I did in 6:50 thanks to Full Circle Coaching.”

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

  1. The Assistant Coaches are fantastic. They assist Coach Erinne with the swim, bike, and run. Coach Jac, Coach Ollie, and Coach Dennis helped me with my swim, bike, and run. It is excellent to get their different points of view and connect with them.
  2. The Full Circle Tribe is unique. Teammates welcome you into the family and share their training experience with you. I find inspiration not only from the Coaches but from every single team member in one way or another.
  3. Getting a race plan. I had never planned a race before, step by step. But it was a game-changer when executing it during the actual race. I knew exactly what to do and got the results that I expected.

What excites you the most about being involved in triathlon?

I love the Triathlon Community. Triathletes are disciplined, and we consider ourselves a big family. It is good for your physical and mental health. I love following the pros, especially the Women.

What would you say to someone on the fence about joining our training program?

Full Circle Coaching is the complete package. You will have hands-on coaching on all three sports, nutrition, and mental strength. You will join a family that will support you in every aspect throughout your Triathlon Journey. Join us!

This could be you!
JOIN MY FREE 4-DAY NUTRITION RESET CHALLENGE

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 Heather Metoyer; Embracing the triathlon lifestyle

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS

Rockstar Triathlete Heather Metoyer

Coach’s Notes:

As any triathlete who is committed to the triathlon lifestyle knows, there will be setbacks.

It does not mean your triathlon career is over. Just as in life, it’s about how you respond to the situation.

Heather had a setback with a bone spur in her foot leading up to the Cozumel 70.3, and instead of doing NOTHING, as most doctors prescribe, she took action to heal and believed she could get to that finish line. I was lucky enough to be at the race, and the run was brutal with the heat. Nevertheless, I was cheering for her and saw her determination. She never doubted herself.

Was it tough? Hell Yes! Did she push through? Hell Yes!

And we were all there at the finish line, so freaking proud of you, Heather- You are a Rockstar Triathlete.

I read it below; When is the full Ironman happening??? We got you, girl!

Age:

53

Profession:

Business Owner/Ice Cream Truck Event Catering

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

I met Erinne at a “Swim Miami” pre-race clinic, and after completing the 1-mile race in over 50 mins, I felt like I needed help with swim technique and endurance. I knew after her clinic; I wanted her to coach me. I had no idea she would end up coaching me in Triathlon. 

What is your “A” race for this season?

My only triathlon this year was Ironman Cozumel 70.3.

Please share your BIG goals:

I can’t lie and say I haven’t thought about a Full Ironman, so if you want BIG, there it is… I just put it out in the universe! Before I’m 60!

Tell me about your successes so far:

Most recently, I’m super proud to have finished an Ironman 70.3 after not being successful. I had a DNF at Ironman Cartagena 70.3 in 2019, and a foot injury this summer. The doctor told me I should cancel the race, take two anti-inflammatory pills 3x a day and either have surgery or go to Physical Therapy and stop running.

I left the office, went and shopped for physical therapists, never took any meds, took the natural supplement advice from my coach, and trusted aggressive physical therapy for five weeks/ 3x a week.

I made it to the finish with no further damage to my foot! Yay Me!!!!

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:

Swim – I now have a 1.2 mile PR swim of 38 minutes (a huge improvement from 1 mile @ over 50+ minutes)
Bike – I can ride long and comfortable in an aero position; definitely more work to do to get faster! That’s my 2023 goal, to get stronger for the bike. Hello, Ultimate Tri Camp in February!
Run – I learned proper running form. I’m improving my foot strength now, as I never accepted how important it was until my injury.
Nutrition – I’ve learned much about what’s on a food label, combining food for performance, and how to fuel correctly for a long race. 80/20 lifestyle is the struggle and goal!

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

  1. Commitment and accountability with teammates (having race partners is the best!)
    2. Full Circle Coaching includes lifestyle coaching, not just in Triathlon. 
    3. Taking action, daily “High Five” myself and using the “5 Second Rule” (Can you tell I love Mel Robbins 🙂

What excites you the most about being involved in Triathlon?

Triathlon has improved my mental game in everything I do. It’s also so awesome to know your body can do three different sports, whether you’re better at one or the other. There’s always something to improve. You can never run out of new goals.

What would you say to someone on the fence about joining our training program? 

Being coached by Full Circle Coaching is beyond sport; It’s a complete lifestyle. The FC athletes are beyond teammates; they are chosen family. 

This could be you!

Join my Free 4-Day Nutrition Reset Challenge

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.

Is there a better way?

by fullcircle, posted in Blogs, Mindset

Is there a better way?

What’s up, you guys? Coach Erinne here. And I wanted to talk about the possibility of doing things a little differently.

I have so many athletes that sign up with me, and they give themselves enough time to achieve the goal and then life happens.

We have a certain amount of time for each distance of race.

For a sprint race, you need six to eight weeks. Olympic, typically eight weeks to 12 weeks is the minimum amount of time to train so that you show up at the race and you feel good across the finish line.

For a 70.3, four months minimum. And that’s with a base of training before that four months starts. That’s four months of focused training.

And then for an Ironman, you can get it done in four months. But six months to even a year is preferable.

And so why do I recommend all of that time? The reason is, because it’s just human nature that you get started, they’re super motivated. And after the first month to six weeks, things start to fall apart.

Whether they couldn’t control themselves and start as slow as I asked them to perhaps. Or they just pushed too hard too fast too soon. Whether they’re with me or with another coach, that’s a very common thing. You want to do better, you want to get faster. And you have this giant goal at the end of this time period. And your ego’s like, “You need to go faster. You need to do this better,” right?

But there is definitely a better way, okay?

So you guys have heard me talk about Strong before Long, and Fast before Far. But you can’t even go fast until you’re strong. You have to be strong first.

So what if you guys … Or you guys and gals who are doing triathlon and you’re tired of showing up to the race, all patched together with KT tape all over your body, because you’re hurting.

You’ve changed your time goal because you haven’t really put in the time training.

You procrastinated that first two to four months, and it was six weeks till the race. And then you finally kicked in and started training and doing what was required. Is this you??

It’s not those occasional, big giant workouts that help you cross the finish line. (they can help but) It’s actually the day-to-day, week-to-week, month-to-month training that gets you to the goal.

And the goals are different for everybody. If you have a goal just to cross the finish line and barely survive (I don’t really like to train people to do that). I’d rather have you cross the finish line and be like, “Hell yeah! I just kicked ass on that race. And I am ready for more. I am super proud of my accomplishment!”

Don’t get me wrong, every time you cross the finish line is a win.

But what if you could cross the finish line having done the work leading up to it?

Yes, Ironman, triathlon takes work. You can wing a sprint, you can wing an Olympic. But you cannot wing a 70.3. And you cannot wing an Ironman. I was at Cozumel 70.3 a few weeks ago and it was SO hot during the run. Everyone was suffering, but the ones who suffered less, trained more.

It’s just the truth! 70.3 and Ironman is hard, you guys. It is fucking hard. Excuse my French.

If you don’t put in the time, it’s harder. Right?

So what if you decided to do it a different way?

What if you decided to show up and start doing your strength training now?

You get that video analysis and you get that strength assessment and mobility assessment.

You start stretching, you start doing your strength training specific to Swim, Bike, Run.

You start aerobic, building your aerobic base by keeping your heart rate low. And just improving your fitness, right?

Then as four to six weeks go by, we start to test you. We create your training zones. Then you start to do your intervals. You’ve been consistent, you haven’t had a setback.

You’re taking care of your nutrition so you didn’t get sick. You didn’t get a cold, you didn’t catch that cold because you’re actually recovering when you’re supposed to.

You’re sleeping eight hours a night every night. You’re taking care of the whole body, the whole mind, the whole process to help you feel fucking amazing across the finish line.

And I’m proud to say it that at Full Circle Coaching, that’s what we strive to do for you guys.

We want you to have the whole package. The nutrition, race day nutrition, as well as day-to-day nutrition, immune boosting, making sure your sleep is dialed in. Supplements, yes. You can’t supplement your way into a healthier body. So nutrition comes first. But definitely, you need supplements to help support your journey. Triathlon is a big stressor in your life.

So from there, strength. As I said, strength and mobility are specific to the sport. And also make sure your strength is in other directions besides just going front and front forward like triathlon is.

Then put in the time to train. Show up to the track, whether it’s with me holding your hand or not.

So triathlon is a lonely sport. And sometimes people get upset when they have to do 100-mile bike rides on their own. Or they have to do an 18-mile bike ride. But you’re not racing with friends. Yeah, they might be at the same race, but it’s your race. It’s you against you. You compete with yourself, right?

So I’m here to ask you if you’re ready to try doing it a different way. And if you are, I have a great way to set yourself up.

So, I’m starting my Nutrition Essentials course this fall. Along with a strength training program to help you guys set up your year to have an epic year in 2023.

So that is two months, two to three months, the end of 2022 is going to allow you to have a kick-ass spring into the whole 2023 season, whatever your races are.

So I have athletes signing up for Puerto Rico 70.3, for Clash Miami in March. Guess what? The training starts now. And it doesn’t mean you can’t do a triathlon in the meantime. There’s Key West, right? There’s Miami Man that you can still keep up your Swim, Bike, and Run. But the focus is going to be on nutrition and strength.

So are you ready to do it a different way? I’d love to have you join me. DM me if you’re interested in the details. I have an application I can send you to see if we are a fit. Let me help you get there by doing it a different way.

October 24-27, is my Nutrition Reset Challenge join us Free!

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.

From Brain Tumor to 70.3 Finish line; Rockstar Triathlete Neil Solomon

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS

From Brain Tumor to 70.3 Finish line; Rockstar Triathlete Neil Solomon

Coach’s Notes:

Neil and I go WAY back. But I had not heard from him in quite a few years. He told me his Ironman goal and I did say it was possible, but we may want to take a bit more time to get stronger and faster since he had taken so much time away from sport.

We decided to forge ahead with a caveat to change of course as needed. So he joined my Triathlon Transformation Program and we got to work with my Nutrition Essentials and Strength and Mobility Essentials.

Neil lost over 30 lbs, and even got his 6-pack abs back! We did identify a few imbalances in his strength and mobility assessments and are happy to say most of those were corrected despite a few strains along the journey.

Next was dialing in his biomechanics on the swim, bike, and run with video analysis and testing. His massive improvements across the board are impressive.

Some of his other big wins were switching from fear to speed on the bike, struggle to enjoyment on the swim, and injury to strong and steady on the run.

It is never a straight line from start to finish in your training journey to long-course triathlon, but I have methods to keep the fitness improving while athletes recover and continue to progress.

I could not be more proud of Neil’s success at the Cozumel 70.3. Coming within 10 minutes of his predicted race time, given the conditions, with a 6:41 is impressive. This kind of success after recovering from a brain tumor and not much fitness is pretty EPIC!

Way to go, Neil, you are a true Rock Star Triathlete! So excited for what’s next…

Thanks so much for choosing Full Circle Coaching for your triathlon Journey! Congratulations!

 Age:

52

Profession:

CEO – PropertyForce – A real estate investment company.

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

I go back a long way with FCC to when I was doing my first sprint triathlons in my late 20s or early 30s. Erinne brings tremendous knowledge and unparalleled expertise to any athlete looking to excel in all three disciplines. Beyond the sport itself, but directly related, Erinne’s understanding of nutrition, supplementation, a healthy lifestyle, and a holistic perspective is extremely valuable to any training regimen.

What is your “A” race for this season?

Cozumel 70.3 was my “A” race for the season.

Please share your BIG goals: My big goals in life or my big goals related to triathlon? 

My big goal in life is to be the best husband, father, family man, friend, and businessman I can be. To make a positive impact on as many people as possible every day – to coach.

My BIG goals in Triathlon are to become a competitive Age Grouper, challenging for podium positions regularly whether competing in Sprints, Internationals, or Olympics. Also, to push my limits in 70.3s and significantly cut my time to under 6 hours towards 5 hours. Finally, to complete at least 1 Full Ironman140.6. Along the way, to get, remain, and stay emotionally, mentally, and physically healthy through improvement to reach these triathlon goals.

Tell me about your successes so far:

This year has been unique.

Not to get dramatic, but most of my athletic focus and training stopped six years ago when I was diagnosed with a brain tumor. A combination of factors post multiple surgeries led to some weight gain, and while I got “back to the gym,” it was the first time I had ever gone multiple months, let alone multiple years, without any cardio training.

So, to kick off 2022, I decided that would change. A friend motivated me to get started on an old bike, and as that got a little traction, I added some light running. By March, I reached out to Erinne and Full Circle Coaching to begin training for a long course race. A lifelong goal!

Success 1, committing to a healthy lifestyle, and to that end, I dropped over 30 pounds, and my blood work went from not-so-good to perfect. My body changed significantly, my clothing fit (smaller sizes), and I looked and felt healthier and more energetic.

Success 2, learning to be patient, mainly as aches and pains arose that I had never dealt with before. Again, I had never gone so long without training, so the joint pain and the slight muscle pain, the reduced flexibility, and deteriorated muscular strength, let alone severely less cardiovascular capability, all required a level of patience that took some getting used to. Attention to little details mattered, which required a change in mindset, which was fully supported and inspired by Coaches Erinne, Ollie, and Jac.

Success 3 was competing in a couple of sprints and an Olympic in the spring and early summer while recovering from a nagging calf issue.

Success 4 was an exceptional experience and achievement this past weekend at my A race – Cozumel 70.3…which brings me to:

Success 5 is my decision to postpone IM Florida 140.6 and acknowledge that patience is a virtue. To have a positive experience in a FULL Ironman, with all that I am contending with pre/post-Cozumel, and that thing called life requires a bit more training and an even more significant commitment to consistency and attention to detail in the training sessions.  As I have said for years, you can’t fake a full Ironman. I know that, I believe that, and I am proud of myself for putting whatever ego and pride aside to reset and refocus my training to accomplish that FULL goal in 2023.

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:

First and foremost, I learned a lot about training. About HR, POWER, ZONES, etc., etc., stuff that MATTERS! Particularly as you start going long course.

With regards to the SWIM, Cozumel’s SWIM was the biggest positive delta I have ever achieved in any athletic endeavor concerning expectation vs. performance. All through training, while my swim technique improved, I remained relatively slow vs. my peers, swimming long swims at around 2:30 per 100 yards. As such, I anticipated a swim north of 50 minutes, and my goal was to break 50 minutes. I swam Cozumel in 35 MINUTES (1:53 per 100); never did I think that was possible. And even more impressive, yards 1000 – 1500 were at a 1:38 per 100-yard pace. I was blown away. All the frustration and struggle with technique both in the pools and in the open water paid off in Cozumel as I finally found my form and “felt the water”!

The Bike journey has been spectacular. Highlighted by my first 55 and 75-mile rides and then multiple 50-60ish mile rides in training. What started as struggling to maintain 15mph became comfortable and strong at 20mph. What was being dropped by groups riding at 22mph became me pulling for those same groups at 24mph—all driven by better technique, better fitness, and, yes, a better bike. I went from the guy afraid to train in cycling because it is dangerous and uncomfortable to the guy who prefers cycling over the other two disciplines and looks forward to improving further.

My sub-3-hour Cozumel 70.3 56-mile ride and my Loggerhead Sprint ride of 13 miles averaging almost 22 mph are the highlights of this season.

With regards to the RUN, just being able to complete Loggerhead and then Cozumel was a huge achievement, considering the calf issue. That said, learning about techniques such as dry needling, flossing, and others, are valuable pieces of information. Running Loggerhead well under 9-minute miles without pain was a tremendous achievement. I was also proud of training 8-10 miles several times at roughly 10-minute miles, considering how long I was away from running. And while the Cozumel run was brutal, my legs, lungs, and heart held up for 2:48 in 100-degree temperature, and I also take tremendous pride in that. Knowing I tested months ago at a 6:30 minute mile and likely could break 6:00 today bodes well for future training and races as my body recalls the 11 marathons and multiple half marathons. I have run and know that to go 13 miles sub 7:30 is possible, as are the correlated speeds at the shorter distances. Been there, done that… will get back there again.

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

1. Eating clean.
2. Being FULLY committed to the high-quality training days that I can get to consistently. This year it was Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. I hope to add another day or even two as I close the year. But those four days, I was religious about them. And quite honestly, that schedule allowed me to rest and recover, which was probably appropriate for this past cycle.
3. I had and have lots of fun! I trained with a smile the VAST MAJORITY of the time!

What excites you the most about being involved in triathlon?

The people – I have said for 25 years, “You will not meet a nicer group of people than those you will meet involved in endurance sports!” Cozumel did not disappoint, as has happened often at the end of past races of mine; as I was struggling through mile 12 of the run, some pro or top age grouper, I guess doing his cool down two hours later, comes running the opposite way with nothing but words of encouragement, even ran with me for like 20 yards. It’s a special group of people! The Full Circle Tribe fits that description, “a special group of people,” as well or better than any team out there.

Also, I love to test myself. And triathlon allows you to do that in ways that I would have thought were done for me when I left high school and that portion of my athletic career. Mentally, physically and emotionally, triathlons of any size, shape, or form test your abilities, your conditioning, your strength, and most of all your discipline!

What would you say to someone on the fence about joining our training program?

Whether a true beginner, a novice, an intermediate, or an experienced accomplished triathlete, FULL CIRCLE Coaching has a program for you.  That said, be prepared to take in A LOT of information quickly. Don’t allow yourself to be overwhelmed. Be willing to ask lots of questions. It is not, “Hey, let’s go for a little swim, a casual bike ride, or a Sunday jog.” It is a sport, but it is very much a science, and FC focuses on the science of it. So be prepared to learn a lot and even be a bit intimidated by all the data and tech. Just know it is all there to keep you healthy and make you better!

This could be you! You too can become the triathlete you always dreamed of! APPLY Here!

P.S. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.
Full Circle has teamed up with Property Force to help promote the fundraising Bike Ride Event on OCTOBER 15th. Click REGISTRATION for details.
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.

Be intentional in living the life you want

by fullcircle, posted in Blogs, Mindset

Be intentional in living the life you want

Most people spend a lifetime clear on what they DON’T want for themselves.

That creates a constant state of yearning for more.

But it’s confusing for our brains because we often don’t get clear enough to tell our brain what we actually desire.

This creates a low likelihood of ever getting what we actually want – it’s because we aren’t being completely intentional.

A lot of people go years and years LIVING like that. Just doing it for no certain reason. Or for all reasons. Or for any reasons.

But if you want to get somewhere – if you want to create the thing that you want – then you must be intentional.

  • Why am I doing this?
  • Who’s it for?
  • What result do I want – and when?

It’s how you begin to establish a life of meaning.

A life that means what you want it to mean. That should include a healthy lifestyle, a proper weight, a good relationship with food, etc. 

A life of meaning must include other priorities, too.

But priorities are, by definition, not haphazard. And healthy habits don’t just form on their own.

Choose to live the life you envision for yourself. Then … CREATE IT!

Curious about Full Circle’s Triathlon Transformation program?
You too can become the triathlete you always dreamed of!
APPLY Here!

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.

Rockstar Swimmer: Tim Skladzien

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS

Rockstar Swimmer: Tim Skladzien

Coach’s Notes:

I was psyched to hear from Tim when he reached out to me to train for Alligator Lighthouse swim.

He joined my Swim Essentials virtual training program since he lives in Illinois and we started with the video analysis and swim testing.

From there I gave him specific drills to correct his form along with swim specific strength and stretches as well as his online training program to reach his maximum potential for the 8-mile open water swim race.

Seeing him in our biweekly group coaching calls and checking in on his form monthly allowed him to achieve success despite never having swum in the open ocean for a race like this. He had a personal record in his 5k in Lake Michigan along the way to success in a very wavy open ocean Alligator Lighthouse swim. Super Proud of you Tim. Congratulations – You are a Rockstar Swimmer!

Age:

30

Profession:

Aquatics Manager at Foglia YMCA in Lake Zurich, IL


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

I heard about FCC when I searched Alligator Lighthouse on Youtube and a video of Coach Erinne talking about her experience swimming popped up and chose to go with FCC to work on my journey of training for the 8-mile ocean swim.

What is your “A” race for this season?

My A race was the Alligator Lighthouse swim. 

Please share your BIG goals:

To do another ocean swim in 2024. Maybe stick to a fresh water swim race Summer of 2023? Yet to be determined.

Tell me about your successes so far:

Completing my first ever Alligator Lighthouse swim in 6:37 min. It was tough being from the Midwest where we don’t have access to the ocean like Floridians do. However, I did my best given the fact that the current and waves were tough in getting to the lighthouse. 

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:

PR time achieved for 3 mi Lake Michigan swim.

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

1. Support from Family and Friends.
2. Support from my work of allowing me to make this swim happen.
3. My brother doing an amazing job on navigating as my kayaker. 

What excites you the most about being involved in triathlon?

While I am currently not training for any triathlons, the only thing that excites me is competing against other swimmers in the race and training races.

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

Have fun with training, work hard and do your best! 

Curious about Full Circle’s Virtual Swim Essentials Program?
You too can become the triathlete you always dreamed of!
APPLY Here!

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.

Triathlete turned coach; Rockstar Ollie Garcia

by fullcircle, posted in ROCKSTARS

Triathlete turned coach; Rockstar Ollie Garcia

Coach’s Notes:

Who knew when Ollie hired me 2.5 years ago for her 1st 70.3 that I would now be calling her coach.

She had signed up and never even completed a sprint triathlon.

We only had 3 months, but we got her across the line in her first triathlon 70.3 wanting more!

Not gonna lie, she was a bit stubborn at first. She liked to stay up late and race after only 1 hour of sleep. The nutrition quality was pretty low as well.

But, when she wasn’t getting the results she desired from just training hard, she started to incorporate little changes in nutrition and lifestyle and the results started coming.

She has been on the podium a few times in short course races now and ready to go longer.

She was my team mate for RAAM, with only a few weeks of training since one of our #4cyclists4kids broke their shoulder, she joined the team late and she did an amazing job.

So happy to call her my fellow team mate and proud she is now a Full Circle Coach!

She has been through the ropes of my program just as all my athletes have and she now knows what is possible when you follow the plan and tweak it to make it your own. Way to go Ollie!

Age:

13 at heart but chronologically 34.

Profession:

USAT Level I, Triathlon Coach at Full Circle Coaching and an emergency room nurse.

What is your “A” race for this season?

Daytona Half Ironman

Please share your BIG goals: Tell me about your successes so far: 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:

Woah…. Badassery… Undeniably EPIC so far. Lol

Sooooo, I just finished RAAM! Race Across America, “The World’s Toughest Bike Race.” When I started this sport 1.5 years ago, little did I know I’d be cycling across America. “F*ck! Did I just do that… Yesssss!!

To be honest, I signed up to be support crew but manifested my way into being a cyclists for #4cyclists4kids pedaling to the finish line, and boy did I cross the finish line along with 3 of my peeps, all from @FullCircleCoaching who share the same passion as mine.

I was so excited but TERRIFIED when I got the official word I would be riding.

The what if’s… the I’m not good enough compared to others who’ve been doing this for years; Fudge monkeys I don’t know how to climb a damn mountain or descend one either… the doubts and fear of the unknown popped up in my mind.

However, throughout the time I’ve been part of Full Circle, I learned that it’s the norm for fears to pop up, but more importantly that there are so many ways and tools to fight or rather manage through them.

I couldn’t allow the fears to destroy my love for cycling and sight seeing the USA at its best!

Plus, I got to be part of something bigger; helping kiddos be placed in safe and loving homes with family.

It’s an opportunity for them to learn to manage trauma and any fear of abandonment or, just loss of self worth. I mean if I could help a kid gain a chance to find a way to love themselves and become who they want to become with the proper support, that to me is worth everything in this world.

That’s the thought that encouraged and helped me get through my training and the race itself.

Training for this race was completely different than the 70.3’s, Sprints, and Olympics I had competed in over the last year.

Yes, it was so epic being able to ride 100 miles, 7 days straight and just do over 70 miles every other day or so, before that.

I felt so much stronger and my body could handle the volume.

Time outside of training was minimal so I had to choose wisely how I spent it.

I made sure my nutrition was on point in order to do all of this and I had to invest in myself by eating as organically and clean as I could.

I had to make sure my on bike nutrition was flawless (Vitargo, Bodyhealth electrolytes, endless supply of organic baby food, salt tablets- no gels or bars.

Thank you Endurance Tap for the boost up the mountains and rolling hills in the middle of the night with the fireflies).

I had to find the proper rest when I could between training and work. When it was race time, my body was able to be on the go, go.

It wasn’t easy and the logistics of the race had its flaws that were beyond my control but I got to experience cycling and mother nature at its best while gaining so much confidence in my future.

This race has taught me that being WISE is way better than trying to hit the pedals to the max every damn time.

I was able to keep going when it was rough because I knew when I could push and when I had to pull back to be ready for the next challenge. Just like any race, the more you teach yourself that it’s OKAY to not be hitting your max full throttle THE WHOLE DAMN TIME and waiting to press the trigger, the more likely you’ll be able to PR, survive longer than your competitors and eventually pass them.

Endurance training is not like a SPRINT, but you can incorporate the sprint in the right moments with the proper fuel.

After the race, and a few weeks of recovery, I did my bike test and increased my FTP (Functional Threshold Power) from 176 to 188 and my new goal is to get over 200.

Funny thing is, I didn’t even train for speed or threshold for this race. All I did was ride mostly zone 2/3 over the weeks before the race and during, yet I still improved my watts.

Lets be real for a second, who doesn’t want to go 24 plus mph ALL THE DAMN TIME!? But I have learned that doesn’t equate to higher power numbers or better race results.

A few other things I have learned:

Riding in a group and drafting does not develop my own cycling power and skills. It’s a great addition to my training but it can’t be the only thing.

My other success is that I learned how to ride into the wind by holding higher RPMS with easier gears to produce more power and hold it (damn right) rather than struggling with my legs with a harder gear and lower RPMS

What I’ve noticed is that most people are scared when they see the WINDS MPH written on the weather channel app. They won’t go swim or bike, f*ck that, DIVE RIGHT IN! It actually isn’t as bad as it seems when you’re into the workout. If it is, there are tricks. I’ve learned to be mentally okay with cutting my session short because my MPH was lower than the normal but fuck… I’m faster than before with more confidence.

Also, I learned how to cope with the fear of being blown away or feeling the bike move under me. Deep breathing, reminding myself I am safe and in control. I know how to sit and where to add pressure to the bike if needed but never stop breathing deep! You too can do that guys (and girls), it’s not comfortable in the moment, but practice will make it so worth it.

Currently, I’m getting ready for Cozumel 70.3 and Daytona 70.3.

For Cozumel my main focus will be swim and bike.

Daytona will be a test for how I adapt in all 3 sports. I’ve been healing from a foot injury and have learned how to manage the stress it can take with the training.

I was hesitant in doing the races post RAAM, but the more I work on my strength and mobility (sometimes I’ll shorten my workout to do so) the more I realize it is possible.

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

  1. Clean Nutrition and SLEEP!
  2. Working on my self worth/ confidence.
  3. DRILLS! Holy crap, if it weren’t for them I think I wouldn’t have improved my swimming in such a short time. Running; the drills and form is what got me back to running with no issue on top of the strength work. That’s why I can run more effectively and still be pretty fast with the lack of training I had. For Cycling; those one legged drills (I’VE SLACKED ON THEM and I tried it out this week and I already see a difference. Kind of excited to see how much stronger I can get doing the drills for not too long during my workouts)!

What excites you the most about being involved in triathlon?

Being able to defy limits.

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

I’m a coach at Full Circle, but I started off as a beginner triathlete.

I loved it so much I wanted more.

I have learned and now teach that at Full Circle Coaching it’s more than just getting a workout plan.

It’s pretty cool to have others who share the same passion as you, surround you and help keep you accountable.

We focus on technique and form, and science based training.

Most of our athletes PR consistently and that’s the key, getting better and better and continuing to grow and improve.

We actually care as coaches and we always want to see you improve across every finish line, not just crossing ONE FINISH LINE.

We coach our athletes, but we also train and race, so we teach what we learn ourselves and include that with more education and personal experience for you.

That’s more important than just a certification and teaching you stuff because it’s in a book. We keep it real for you.

So YEAH! If you’re wanting to push through your doubts and fears, gain confidence, cross a finish line or 5, PR at your next race or just chill with the Tribe and have funskiez… JOIN US!

CURIOUS ABOUT FULL CIRCLE’S TRIATHLON TRANSFORMATION PROGRAMS?

You too can become the triathlete you always dreamed of!
Schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session NOW!

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.

Unravel The Limiting Beliefs That Are Holding You Back

by fullcircle, posted in Blogs, Mindset

Unravel The Limiting Beliefs That Are Holding You Back

Beliefs are just thoughts repeated, right? We’ve all heard that before or read it on a coffee mug or Pinterest board.

And it’s true. If you think you’re a smart, hard-working, good person – and then repeat that thought over and over — then you’re going to face the world with a positive attitude about yourself.

Unfortunately, it works the other way around too, as so many of us know. Have you ever thought any of these about yourself? And then repeated them, like, a million times until the thoughts become your beliefs?

I’ll always be too fat.

I’ll never make it.

Nothing ever goes my way.

I’m always injured

I’ll never be fast

I’ll never be good enough

These are highly common self-limiting beliefs. We all have some like them. Maybe they came from a childhood trauma or insult – and the wound caused us to repeat a thought so many times that now it seems like undisputed truth.

But it’s not. It’s just what you’ve been telling yourself about yourself.

The good news is this: You can change your self-beliefs by changing what you say about yourself!

  1. Stop comparing yourself to others. There will always be someone who seems to have more … or be more … or do more. Just be YOU.
  2. Notice what thoughts about yourself pop into your head. What are the circumstances? Are there any common threads? 
  3. Dig into your past to think about where they might’ve come from? I personally had a 3rd grade teacher bring me to the front of the class and show everyone how terrible my cutting skills with scissors were. Believe it or not that has stayed with me for decades! Despite all the many successes I have had in school and business. I keep a list of all my successes when I think I cannot do something I have the desire to do
  4. Next, try to turn around a negative thought. When you tell yourself that you’re not successful in life, think of something that you’ve done well – a new job, a relationship, good relationships with your family, etc. 
  5. Then say it out loud and repeat the thought over and over: “I’m smart and successful and often achieve my goals.”

This doesn’t have to take a long time to bring lasting change. It’s a form of self-care to grant yourself the empathy and support you would a friend.

We’re here to help you build new habits to turn those negative self-beliefs into empowering tales of your fabulousness. Let’s do it – together!

Curious about Full Circle’s Triathlon Transformation program?
You too can become the triathlete you always dreamed of! Use this link to schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session Now! WWW.SCHEDULEYOU.IN/5ZISVAU

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.

Why Sleeping Better Is So Important

by fullcircle, posted in Blogs, Mindset

Why Sleeping Better Is So Important

Do you want to make a positive impact on your life every day (and night)?

To improve your mental and physical health, stress level, and even your skin?

Of course you do!

Everybody wants to sleep better – at least, once we’re past the age when we think it’s fun to burn the midnight oil with work or partying.

If you’re past that stage but never gave much thought to how you sleep, then stop right now.

“Sleep is as important for good health as diet and exercise,” the National Institutes of Health says. “Good sleep improves your brain performance, mood, and health. Not getting enough quality sleep regularly raises the risk of many diseases and disorders. These range from heart disease and stroke to obesity and dementia.”

The agency says there are three aspects to sleep – how much you get; the quality of it; and having a consistent sleep schedule.

It’s so important because of all the work our brains and bodies get done when we sleep. It’s not just about “resting” for a while.

Sleep helps us learn, remember and create. It gives time to repair everything from blood vessels to the immune system.

Most adults need at least 7 hours a night. And, despite the popular myth, we can “catch up” on weekends. 

So, follow these no-nonsense tips to get more and better sleep.

  • Stick to a schedule. Go to bed and wake up at the same times every day.
  • Exercise every day.
  • Get natural sunlight – 30 minutes/ day is ideal
  • Avoid nicotine and caffeine, which are stimulants and stay in your body for hours.
  • Don’t drink or eat too much before bedtime.
  • Unplug from your devices a minimum of an hour before bedtime.
  • Keep your sleeping area cool, quiet and dark. Electrical tape over any lights.
  • Turn off Wifi in your house or apartment at night.

It’s the stuff that dreams – and so much more – are made of.

Curious about Full Circle’s Triathlon Transformation program which includes so many more sleep hacks?
You too can become the triathlete you always dreamed of! Use this link to schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session Now! WWW.SCHEDULEYOU.IN/5ZISVAU

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.