I originally became aware of TTC when my Mum mentioned that she was interested in a 10 weeks beginner's triathlon course which the club was running starting in July 2014. I had recently finished my A levels and had been exercising very little and eating poorly during my final years at school, and weighed in excess of 15 stone 10lbs. I decided I wanted to improve my general health and fitness and so signed up to the beginner's course alongside my Mum.

     The beginner's course we did was a solely female course which I found less intimidating  as at the time I was lacking in confidence in myself and my body. Our coaches were extremely dedicated and provided a supportive yet challenging environment for us. I have always enjoyed swimming and found the coached sessions very engaging as they were well designed to include both drills and normal swimming. When I started, by far the most difficult aspect of the training was the running. In the first few weeks I really struggled and was running at 16 minute mile pacing, however, I was encouraged hugely by both the coaches and other people on the course. I really appreciated this and was motivated to complete my first triathlon at the end of the course. The event was well supported by both family of people on the course and members of the club who also marshalled for us. Following the course, many of those on the beginner's course joined TTC, both those who wished to go on to compete further and those who wanted to join for the dynamic training opportunities and good company.

     Shortly following the end of the course I began studying at Lancaster University. While in Lancaster I was driven to continue training following my achievements with TTC and began eating more healthily and running more often. Although it was very difficult to begin with, I soon began to look forward to going training and felt much healthier.  When I returned home for the holidays, I was welcomed back by TTC and benefited greatly from their training programmes as I  find it much easier to stay motivated when in a friendly and supportive group, rather than always training by myself. 

     This year I joined the university triathlon club and have enjoyed training and competing alongside them. This would not have been possible if I had not been encouraged by those at TTC. Through the continued and relentless support of the members of TTC, I have lost 5 stone and run at 9:00 minute mile pacing, all of which has helped me feel much more confident within myself. Although the training has been tough at times, the members and coaches at TTC have supported and motivated me to become a much fitter and stronger person than I would have though possible 18 months ago.

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