Swimming

Can’t Open Water Swim , WILL Open Water Swim with TRI in the Park

This summer, Glasgow hosts the 2018 European Championships and elite athletes will travel from all over Europe to compete for podium places, personal bests and for cheers from the Glasgow crowds.

But Glasgow 2018 is not just for Europe’s best; it is an opportunity for everyone in and around Glasgow to come together and not only watch the events across the city (and in Gleneagles) but to join in on the fun.

For Glasgow 2018 have partnered with Triathlon Scotland to bring us TRI in the Park, a fun and full day of activities for the whole family and a chance for you and them to experience any or all of the triathlon disciplines in Strathclyde Park on August 12th.

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There will be Triathlons, Aquathlons (swim and run), Duathlons (run, cycle, run) and a Family Relay Triathlon while there will also be Tristar triathlons for children aged 11-14 years old. As part of Triathlon Scotland’s Go Tri series, it promises to open up triathlons to anyone who wishes to try and whether you an experienced triathlon club member or someone contemplating your first triathlon, this is an event for you.

Having regained some confidence and a certain level of fitness, I have signed up for the Open Sprint Triathlon, made up of a 750m swim, 16km cycle and 5km run.

As I write this, I have yet to experience the thrill (or chill) of Open Water Swimming and, if I am honest, I am a little apprehensive. Since my “Can’t Swim, Won’t Swim with Robbie Renwick” blog for the Commonwealth Games, my view on swimming has changed and I have discovered a new found love for the water, in part thanks to my participation in both the Aspire Channel Swim and Swimathon campaigns.

Learning to swim freestyle/front crawl and being able to swim 2.5km has given me the confidence (a fool’s confidence, possibly) to sign up for the Great Scottish 2 Mile Swim in September

But first, I have TRI in the Park and the Wee Beastie Triathlon (in and around Loch Lomond) within two weeks of each other and I need to make the transition (sorry for the pun) to Open Water Swimming and soon.

So, when Triathlon Scotland got in touch and told me about their Beginners Open Water Swimming Sessions for Triathlon at Pinkston Watersports, I signed up for the first session on the evening of Friday 13th (hopefully that is not an ominous portent) and there is another on the afternoon of Sunday 22nd July

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All you need is a swimming costume (wetsuit if you have one), goggles, a swimcap and a towel. As this is a beginner’s session, you only have to be able to swim 50 metres, so get signed up if this hot weather is tempting you to cool off in your local watering hole. You’ll learn how to have fun, be safe and even how to put on a wetsuit (anyone else as worried about this as I am?).

Places are very limited and at only £8.00 per session, they are incredible value, so come and join me both at Pinkston and at TRI in the Park on August 12th

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July 4, 2018 2 comments

Physical Activity Swimathon Swimming

Swimathon Masterclass and Interview with Keri-Anne Payne

written by Stephen Morrison

Sometimes, life brings you opportunities that can shape how you move forward and feel about yourself and last weekend’s Swimathon Masterclass was one such moment.

It was the Ambassador launch event for Swimathon 2018 at the truly outstanding London Aquatic Centre and I am both proud and privileged to be a part of this amazing challenge.

Proud because I am not a chiseled instagram friendly fitness blogger showing off my abs, but instead an overweight but passionate try-athlete who simply wants to show that sport is for all, regardless of your shape, size, age or ability. My goal have never been to move products or promote myself, but to move people and to promote the benefits of being active. Swimathon is providing me with another platform to challenge myself and the often stereotypical view that the overweight and obese are lazy.

And privileged because being an ambassador does come with some amazing perks, not least the opportunity to meet and train with not one, but two Olympis legends

Anyone of a certain age will have grown up with Duncan Goodhew’s exploits in the pool, his Olympic Gold Medal (not actual size above)in Moscow and with his unwavering promotion of swimming. It was no surprise to learn that he is the President of Swimathon, although I was both disappointed and surprised that he was not a fan of my beard (although he is right about the drag).

Throughout the course of the day he provided invaluable feedback and advice. However, it was another Olympian present who really left their mark on me…..Double World Champion and Olympic Silver medalist, Keri-Anne Payne

Not only did she deliver a swimathon masterclass that has transformed my swimming and boosted my confidence, but she also kindly sat down with me for an interview.

Keri-Anne Payne Interview

Hi Keri-Anne, what is it about Swimathon that made you want to be an Ambassador?

I love swimming and everything I do is focused on encouraging and helping others to swim, so when approached to take part, I said yes. Swimathon is a brilliant challenge supporting wonderful charities.

You made the transition (couldn’t help the triathlon pun) to Open Water Swimming; what is it that you love most about the sport?

The freedom. Being in the wide open space of an ocean or sea, with no lanes, brings you closer to nature and it is the most amazing of feelings

What would you say to those interested in open water swimming, but who are maybe worried about the whole getting closer to nature bit?

Get in! Don’t be afraid! The sea is full of creatures and almost all of them are more frightened of you than you are of them.

It has been a year since you officially retired from competitive swimming, so what have you been up to?

My husband David and I set up Triscape, a swimming retreat and coaching business. People can attend our SwimFit sessions on Caribbean retreats in St Lucia and in Nevis, where you can participate in or watch the amazing 2.5 mile swim between Nevis and St Kitts that includes sea turtles as companions and also in Scotland for the Great Scottish Swim. At every retreat, we focus on making people more efficient and better swimmers while we also deliver masterclasses with our team of experts.

David is also an Olympian and I once listened to him speak at a sports symposium where he described that world class swimmers look to make incremental improvements to every aspect of their swim; that individually might only make them fractions of a second faster, but together could make the difference of getting on a podium or not. For those participating in Swimathon, what would you suggest are the fundamental areas to focus on to improve their swimming?

There are three areas that I would advise everyone to work on.

Breathing. Although we take it for granted, how you breathe while swimming dictates how well you swim. Don’t take huge inhales and exhales as this tires you out. Instead, inhale gently through your mouth and exhale via your nose. Not only does this prevent water going up your nose, it is a more efficient way to release air.
Posture. At Triscape we coach swimmers to adopt a straight line swimming approach. You want to reduce drag, so keeping your body straight will enable you to more efficiently and to feel less tired. Rather than looking up and ahead, which can result in hips and legs sinking, keep your head facing down and only turn to breathe.
Propulsion. We want to be as efficient as possible and by rotating our bodies slightly from the hips, our shoulders follow and this gives us extra reach in our front crawl and further reduces drag.

You make no secret that you love cooking and eating, so any nutritional tips for those of us training for Swimathon?

Years of experience have taught me that eating within 20 minutes of a gruelling swim session is optimal. Ideally, it should be a good source of protein and I love making a smoothie of milk, berries, seeds and nuts

Like me, you also love cake. Any tip on having your cake and eating it?

Always share any cake that you bake so that you don’t eat all the slices. Yes, that does make me a bit of a feeder, but it means that I don’t pile on the pounds

Finally, you’ve seen us all swim today. Who is your Star Pupil?

(sorry fellow Swimathon Ambassadors, I could not resist)

After the interview, we headed poolside where Keri-Anne delivered the Swimathon Masterclass and provided us with feedback on our form and some drills to help us improve along with some training plans. We all listened intently and everything she said struck home, especially my head positioning (i.e. it is ALL over the place).

By the end of the masterclass, I was confident that I had made some genuine improvements in how I swim while I had also identified key areas in which I need to make further adjustments, not least the sharing of cake.

Being a Swimathon Ambassador is a huge honour and it feels wonderful to be part of an amazing group of people and I am really enjoying being back in a pool after spending most of my life believing that I was not a swimmer. However, since returning home, I have been to the pool to hone my skills and on Sunday, it all came together.

Not only did I almost swim 2km ( a wee Garmin malfunction), but I did so freestyle. Prior to my session with Keri-Anne, I struggled to swim 25 metres freestyle and it is a mark of her ability as a coach that despite still needing to improve, I now look forward to spending more and more time in the pool. I have not felt this excited or determined for a long time.

For I am now a swimmer!

You too can look forward to swimming more by joining us at Swimathon 2018. You do not need to be a world champion like Keri-Anne or swim 5km with me, but with distances for everyone, this truly is a #swimforall

But do not just take my word for it. Watch this fantastic Swimathon video and then feel free to ask me any questions on Facebook or on Twitter at @hommanymiles_.

Together we can make a splash!

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January 30, 2018 0 comment

Physical Activity Swimming Triathlon

Time for Star Pupil to Resurface with Swimathon 2018

written by Stephen Morrison

Remember back in 2014 when “Star Pupil”was born? I was training with Olympian, Robbie Renwick and he “surprisingly” announced to the world that I was his star pupil.

It was a time when I did not take life (or myself) too seriously and when I focused on having fun (it was also a time when I was clean shaven and 4 stone lighter). Olympians and Commonwealth Champions lined up (ok, it is possible they did not line up) to proclaim me as their star pupil (my favourite was Libby Clegg) and in later years I have had kayak instructors, swimming coaches and even world famous trials rider, Ali Clarkson praise my aptitude as a student.

This Saturday, Star Pupil hopefully makes his return and so does my fun loving spirit as I am getting to swim with not one, but two Olympians and the rest of the Swimathon Ambassador Team at the launch of Swimathon 2018, the annual swimming event for all, that has attracted almost 700,000 participants across the UK from all ages and walks of life.

I will be swimming with the Legend that is Duncan Goodhew (also the president of Swimathon) and the open water marvel and TV presenter that is Keri-Anne Payne.

While I will never achieve their level of brilliance in the pool or the sea, I am hoping that they will recognise (unsolicited, of course) my Star Pupil qualities and hopefully provide me with some pointers to bring back to Glasgow where the real work will begin (or rather continue).

For having tasted greatness (and about 3 litres of pool water) in my 4km Aspire Channel Swim , I am now determined to master 5km for Swimathon on the weekend of 27th -29th April. I say master, but my true goal is to swim faster than my Aspire time.

But that is not my only goal.

I also want YOU to join me. Not necessarily in the 5km (unless you want to , of course) but in any one of the other distances either as an individual or as a team

Up until 21st January registration is only £6.50 , after which it will be £13 and £9.75 for senior citizens, those under 16, students and those disabled or unemployed

70% of the registration fees go to the two Swimathon 2018 charities, Cancer Research and Marie Curie, while the rest enables the Swimathon Foundation to continue supporting swimming initaitives. You can also choose to fundraise, but it is not necessary

Sadly, not a single swimming pool in Glasgow (and very few in Scotland) are signed up to Swimathon, but that does not mean that you have to miss out on the fun

MySwimathon allows you to swim anywhere at anytime (as long as it is between 20th April and 6th May ) and even any distance, making Swimathon open to everyone and their dog (doggy paddling, no doubt).

Which is my other goal (no, not to get dogs swimming).

To encourage everyone, regardless of shape , size, age or ability to be a try athlete. To show that swimming is a sport for all and that all you have to do is take the plunge. As a sport, it is easier on your joints and it can support your body weight, making it accessible as well as fun and good for your health.

So, I hope that you will join me in Swimathon 2018 and follow my training posts for the next three months and my tweets at @howmanymiles_ #swimforall

January 17, 2018 0 comment

Physical Activity Swimming Triathlon

Aspire Channel Swim Review and a wee look back at 2017

written by Stephen Morrison

Believe in the impossible.

Aspire to prove yourself and your doubters wrong and look not to the failures of the past but to the glories of the future to inspire and motivate you.

Not the words of some literary genius or some motivational speaker, just what I tell myself when I reminisce about 2017.

While it has not been a great year, there have been some notable events that stretched what I thought I could accomplish and which gave me hope for the future.

In the past, I would have filled every weekend with races and events, but this year I chose four that would test me and also provide a much needed boost. Or rather, three chose me as an unlikely ambassador.

It all started with the Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon. Coming last provided me with the simplest of benchmarks, while finishing it provided me with a huge confidence boost.

This was quickly followed by the Men’s 10K which I was not ready for and it showed in my time and in my bouts of walking. However, I finished it pain free and with a smile as wide as the Clyde.

Although I withdrew from the Big Belter, I did set my sights on the 45 mile Classic Challenge at Pedal for Scotland (look out for my Cycling Scotland magazine article) and it turned out to be a magical day.

It all set me up for my final challenge of the year

The Aspire Channel Swim which you might have read about here. While not confined to my house, I did struggle to leave and I also wanted to do something special, so I vowed to my Aspire Channel Swim Relay Blogging Team that I would swim the 2.4 miles in one go.

If truth be told, I was not sure that I could, but I was determined that I would!

Watching my relay team members, such as Father and Mutha Fitness complete their swims inspired me and although I did put my own attempt off until the very last week, I made a commitment to swim the 2.4 miles at my local Nuffield Gym who kindly agreed to provide me with my own lane.

However, a few days prior to the event, disaster stuck. My beloved Garmin Forerunner 735XT stopped working. If I could not count lengths and record the swim, will it still have happened?

Thankfully Garmin stepped up to save the day, not only promising to replace my 735XT but to send me a swanky Fenix 5 to test.

And test it, I did

I arrived at Nuffield Giffnock and made my way tentatively towards the pool. With goggles on and my Fenix 5 prepped, I entered the pool, in trepidation due to a lack of preparation.

But then, I remembered the wonderful thing about swimming; why I was delighted to be asked to join the Aspire Channel Swim Relay team and why I asked for my fee to be donated back to Aspire.

Swimming is an activity that is easy on the joints; it is great for improving lung capacity and efficiency which can be transferred to other endurance sports and for those with spinal injuries, it is an effective means of therapy.

It is a sport that is for the many.

Swimming is also good for the mind as the rhythmic nature of it is relaxing and soothing. With 160 laps to swim, I was going to see just how relaxing it was.

I’d like to say that I simply jumped in and got on with it, but the first 30 lengths seemed to take forever and I started to worry that three hours would not be enough.

However, as I settled into my own rhythm and let my mind wander, it did not feel long until I was at 60 and then 100 and soon enough (ok, 2 hours and 24 mins later) I had swum 4,000 metres.

I had completed my Aspire Channel Swim Relay

In one go. To say that I was happy was an understatement and I must have looked at the reading on the Garmin Fenix 5 about 4,000 times, which is about half the amount of times that I have debated whether to buy it or not (I am leaning towards yes).

Now, as Clare expressed so well, swimming the 2.4 miles in one go does not make a great deal of difference. Everyone who managed to complete any distance over any amount of visits helped to raise funds and awareness for Aspire , but given the year that I have experienced, this was an important milestone for me.

It proved that despite my size and recent lack of confidence, I can still enjoy sport and I can test myself. And so can you. I believe in you, but how much do you believe in yourself? Can you think of a challenge that will spur you into action and off of the couch?

Well, over the next few months, I am going to highlight some ways in which almost anyone can participate in sport and as I return to work and to my passion of encouraging civil servants (and everyone else, for that matter) to move more, I also vow to get my own life back on track (I have had so many false starts).

So far my lack of consistency and my desire to discover the finest vegan cakes have cost me three pairs of shoes!!

I cannot have my cake and eat it!!

Especially of I am to do the Aspire Channel Swim and a 5K Swimathon next year.

Huge thanks to Aspire Channel Swim for inviting me to join their blogging relay team and to Nuffield Health and Garmin for supporting my efforts. It was an amazing and often humbling experience viewing on social media the awesome and inspirational efforts of every participant. Swimmers came in all shapes and sizes, in all ages and ability, but with one thing in common.

They believed in the impossible and they aspired to achieve greatness. Will you join them and myself next year?

December 15, 2017 0 comment

Physical Activity Swimming Triathlon

Be Part of the Amazing Aspire Channel Swim 2017

written by Stephen Morrison

Just because I have decided to reschedule (indefinitely) my Ironman challenge, doesn’t mean that I have given up on swimming.

I still intend on competing in Sprint and Olympic Triathlons and I am still going to swim 2.4 miles (the same length as the swim leg of an Ironman) this Autumn.

Not as part of an Ironman though, but instead as part of the amazing Aspire Channel Swim 2017 Blogging Relay Team which is something that I am excited to be a part of.

Come on and Dive in. You know you want to

The Aspire Channel Swim 2017 challenges you and anyone (of any age) you know to swim the length of the English Channel, but do not worry, nobody expects you to a) swim the English Channel (although many brave swimmers are) or b) swim the 22 mile distance in one go or even by yourself.

You can either swim the distance as an individual over a 12 week period starting 11th September and finishing on the 4th December or join a relay team, like I have (still to meet my virtual team), and swim only part of the 22 miles.

There are many inspirational individuals swimming the full 22 miles in days rather than weeks and while I could spread my distance over the 12 weeks, I am going to attempt to swim the entire 2.4 miles (160 lengths) in one visit to my local Nuffield pool. This will be my longest swim ever and I might need to build up a little, but I am really looking forward to getting back into the pool, instead of sitting here writing about it.

Time for less words and more action

Whether you sign up as an individual or relay team, you can swim at your own pace and at your own pool (or outdoor location for my hardy open swimming pals) and you do not need to be an Olympic standard swimmer to participate in the Aspire Channel Swim 2017, although I probably do rival Michael Phelps in calories consumed.

I am not the greatest swimmer (understatement of the year), having only been taught how to swim this year by Robert of Vigour Events, but I love being in the water and as someone who has problems with my joints and who weighs considerably more than I should, the water supports my weight (much like it does for sea living mammals…cue beached whale comments from the fat shamers) and makes swimming a relatively easy activity that is so rewarding, both mentally and physically.

Swim and reap the rewards

The Aspire Channel Swim 2017 is a free to enter challenge and you are urged to fundraise for this vital charity that supports over 40,000 people recovering from spinal injuries. However by signing up at and participating in and promoting the event, you will be helping those paralysed by spinal cord injuries. Sadly, someone is paralysed every 8 hours from a spinal injury and Aspire provides practical support that enable these people to lead active and independent lives

With no statutory Government funding Aspire depends solely on donations and proceeds from the Aspire Channel Swim 2017, so please sign up HERE and please consider even the smallest of donations. The target this year is £800,000 and every penny and every lap counts.

In return, not only will you get to support this amazing charity, but you’ll also get the amazing welcome pack below while the sponsors Zoggs have provided some brilliant prizes for fundraisers.

Even more rewards for signing up to Aspire Channel Swim 2017

So, come September 11th, why not get off the couch and head down to your local pool? Dive in and let us see what you can achieve by sharing your experiences on Twitter and Instagram using #ACS2017

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September 4, 2017 1 comment

Cycling Journey Running Swimming Triathlon

The Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon Review

written by Stephen Morrison

Just the other week, I made my triumphant return to running on the beautiful and extremely windy Reiss beach, close to John O’Groats. It wasn’t fast, but it was extremely pretty and more importantly, I felt no pain (for the first time in well over a year).

This Man Will Be An Ironman

It was on this same beach that I gained the confidence to complete the Copenhagen Marathon and with my weight starting to drop again (slowly) and my cycling becoming an everyday activity, my Ironman dreams should still be alive.

However, last week I was on BBC Radio Scotland (listen here until the end of May) talking about why I blog.

My goal has always been to inspire and encourage others and it might be time to accept that I may need longer to prepare for my Ironman than I anticipated. Especially as I hope to launch at least one new cycling inspired initiative to help encourage people to move more and because I am currently not finding the time to train sufficiently (note to self: sort this out!) while trying to accommodate all my roles, campaigning and responsibilities. At some point, I have to decide what is more important to me. Helping others or helping myself (I want to do both).

But back to the present and back to my Ironman training.

On Sunday, it received a welcome boost as I completed the Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon hosted by Glasgow Triathlon Club and located at The Leisuredrome.

Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon

For those who, like me, are triathlon newbies or wannabes, the Sprint Triathlon is made up of :

750 Metre Swim
20 Kilometre Cycle
5 Kilometre Run

Individually, I am competent at these distances in each discipline, so going into it I was hopeful that I would get through it unscathed even with my lack of real training (famous last words).

However, like most things preparation is key. Bishopbriggs is 8 miles from my home and on the morning of the event, the sun was out and I was feeling good (possibly too good).

I had considered cycling half way to a train station, but the timing was off and being my usual late self, I didn’t have any time to spare, so I just cycled on. [Lesson 1: investigate and plan on how to get to events with a bike]

All the way I was envisaging being late to registration; of encountering lengthy queues and of experiencing a confusing (to me at least) transition area (where you park and collect your bike).

The Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon

On arrival, however, all my fears evaporated. I was welcomed at reception and quickly issued with my timing band, race number and instructions (instructions that even I could almost follow). At the transition area, they must have sensed that I was a newbie and both marshals and another competitor came to my assistance. Neither cared that I was clueless nor wearing the normal triathlete uniform of a tri-suit. Instead, they only seemed to care about me being able to enjoy the race.

And that was to be the theme of the whole event.

We had a quick but instructional (and funny) briefing and then with my estimated swim time being slow and subsequently being in the first wave of triathletes, we were ushered to the pool (no outdoor swim in this event). Here, we were given more instructions. Everything had been thought of, and as I entered my lane, I could focus on one thing

Not killing myself in the pool.

The Swim

Swimming is my weakest discipline and with my Total Immersion swimming still not perfect, I resorted to the breast stroke, which is perfectly acceptable even if my form is far from perfect. I had estimated 30 mins for my swim and I decided on an almost effortless pace as I had no idea how I would cope later on.

At 28 laps, I was accosted with a swimming board. Ok, that isn’t quite right. I had much earlier lost track of my laps, but thankfully, our lane marshall had it in control and a gentle wee tap to the head was to remind/reassure me that I had only two laps left (a nice wee touch indeed).

As I reduced this to one lap and turned for my final 25 metres, I heard the voices. Not in my head, thankfully, but all around me. The awaiting swimmers, my friend Mark and all the marshals were willing me on. As I touched that final pool edge, there was a huge cheer and as I slid out of the pool like a walrus, I had a huge smile on my face.

It was then out to the transition area to collect my bike and in all honesty, I wasted so much time untying shoelaces, attaching race numbers and generally messing around that I lost several precious minutes. [Lesson 2: All of these could and should have been done in setup]

The Cycle

Finally out of the transition area, I set my sights on the 4 x 5km loops on a closed road. Closed to all but two refuse lorries that is, which had somehow managed to break through the blockade of marshals. As soon as you leave the vicinity of the Leisuredrome, you are faced with a monster of a climb. No warning and no warm up. I went through my gears and by the top, my lungs were busting. The rest of the way out was relatively flat, well signposted and with a nice surface, so I paced it well ( I took it easy). At the turning point, there were two friendly and helpful marshals warning us to slow down for the turnaround but also offering encouragement.

The way back was slightly tougher, but we did have THAT hill to go down and the wee kid (or big kid) in me loved the exhilaration of speeding down it, only to be instructed to slow down again as we approached another turning point.

And here , disaster struck. As I slowed down, I placed a foot on the ground and I felt the pain of cramps shoot their way through my left calf and right up into my hip. I pedalled out of the area and managed about 100 metres and had to stop.

I performed a few stretches and tried to get back on and the tightness returned. With it ‘only’ being a 20km cycle, I had no water [Lesson 3: Always bring water and even energy gels] and I could have kicked myself. If I could have moved my leg, that is. At this point, I thought that my race was over and part of me just wanted to curl up and hide. A member of the public then approached me to see if I was ok and suggested that I walk up the hill with my bike and that’s what I did.

As other riders passed me, most asked if I was ok and by the time I reached the top, the pain was easing off. So, I jumped back on and managed to complete the ride only a few minutes outside of my pre race estimate of one hour and that was with me pushing my bike up THAT hill. [Lesson 4: Do more hills. Whether it’s cycling or running, I need to do more hills]

The Run

Again the dismount and transition area was clearly marked and with only the race bib to change from back to front and a change of hat (it was extremely sunny) I was quickly out and onto the last leg.

Any excuse (it was very sunny) to wear my Pearl Izumi Champion cap

And this was quite apt as I was on my last legs. I couldn’t run and managed only short bursts of jogging interspersed with longer bouts of walking. [Lesson 5: Include more “Brick” training sessions where I go straight into a walk or run after a bike ride] The run route is along the canal and it at least offered a beautiful backdrop. It is shared with the public, so there were cyclists, runners and dog walkers, but at no point did this feel like an issue and at the turning point we were met by by another marshal, who was my friend Ray from my Great Run Local Glasgow days. I wasted a minute or so catching up and stealing his water (thanks Ray) but it was a minute worth wasting.With his encouragement and his water, I set off and managed a few bursts of running, but I was sore and tired and it was hot. If I have one complaint, it is that there should have been at least one water station, but I should possibly revert back to Lesson 3.

The route had us then run under a bridge and along the canal in the opposite direction before crossing another bridge (again manned by friendly marshals who even took Ray’s empty bottle from me) and entering the final mile on a more trail like surface. I walked/jogged most of it until I got to the final 500 metres. I picked up the pace (relatively speaking) and sprinted (again, relatively speaking) towards the inflatable finish line where I pumped my hands in the air, having completed my first “real” triathlon. I was given some water and encouraged to have a wee sit down. I didn’t have to be told twice.

I lay back in the grass, spread my arms and stared skywards.

I was a triathlete.

The Celebration

I was a slow, knackered and sore triathlete, but a triathlete nonetheless. I lay like this for a few minutes and then the urge to tell all and sundry about my exploits took over and I headed towards my bike, gear and mobile phone. I picked up some much needed refreshments in the Leisuredrome cafe and set about updating all my social media accounts with my accomplishment. As I spoke to my girlfriend on the phone, I felt tears welling up. I was both emotionally and physically drained, but I was also beaming with pride.

Two thumbs up for the brilliant Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon

Once rested, I gathered my bike and gear and collected my timing sheet from the manually operated system, bade farewell to my hosts and set off on my 8 mile cycle home (yes, I did sleep well last night).

The Verdict

The Bishopbriggs Triathlon was superbly organised by Glasgow Triathlon Club and it is a perfect introduction to Triathlons with both Junior and Novice events also available. With an indoor pool, closed roads and a beautiful run route it was both fun and safe. The marshals were all friendly and knowledgeable while the locals came out to cheer us on. It’s an annual event with 250 Sprint places up for grabs and they do sell out quickly. At £46 it isn’t cheap, but you can get a £5 discount if you are Triathlon Scotland member (I joined after signing up) and it compares favourably with the big name events who charge upwards from £70 for Sprint Triathlons. You also have access to showers, restrooms and cake!

With the cost of entry, the cost of bikes (all triathletes/cyclists adopt the N+1 formula to owning bikes, where the number of bikes you need is N, the number you have + 1) and the amount of kit needed, triathlons are for the serious athlete. I am partly assuming this as they seem to have no time for frivolities. For there was no goodie bag and not even a medal for finishing (although you do get a far more practical Glasgow Triathlon Club towel). Obviously finishing is reward enough.

As someone who collects running medals with the mentality of a magpie, this was disappointing, so I decided to digitally create my own for posterity.

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If a triathlon is something that you are considering, then I would have no hesitation in recommending the Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon. It’s friendly, fun and now unforgettable.

I certainly hope to return next year to beat my finishing time of 2 hours : 33 minutes : 27 seconds and hopefully improve upon my position of last place.

Yes, I was the last finisher and it hasn’t detracted from how I feel about the event or my performance. I had an amazing time and at no point did I feel that my shape or pace were being judged by anyone.

Thank you Glasgow Triathlon Club for a wonderful Bishopbriggs Sprint Triathlon

This week I am speaking at Elevate Arena about being fat and fit and this illustrates why being active is so important to me. Despite being obese, staying active allows me to enjoy (relatively speaking again) these events and it enables me to feel better about myself. I do want to lose more weight, but I will not let my excess pounds slow me down (too much) or stop me from challenging myself or enjoying life.

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May 8, 2017 2 comments

Swimming Triathlon

Ironman Update : Total Immersion with Vigour Events

written by Stephen Morrison

I have regained 60lbs (having lost 170lbs); I have arthritic knees; I fall off my bike more regularly than Evel Knievel (look him up, millennials) and I cannot swim.

So my decision to sign up for an Ironman event in 2018 may seem a little reckless and a tad foolish. And it probably is. Ok, it definitely is.

However, I am a man of dreams and according to followers of the Law of Attraction, I just have to visualise myself crossing that Mallorca Ironman 2018 finishing line and it will happen.

Can’t Swim, Need to Swim

Of course, I may also want to do something about that whole unable to swim thing.

I say unable, but that isn’t strictly true. At the tender age of eight, my father instructed me. The instruction being not to drown as he pushed me into the water at Pollokshaws swimming pool. I didn’t, but as you might see from the video below, my technique since then hasn’t changed much. I basically flap my arms and try to stay afloat.

For years, I have vowed to learn how to swim and for years my fear of feeling embarrassed by my weight has stopped me. Even when I lost weight, I didn’t feel completely comfortable and any time I have tried to swim, my complete lack of talent has been clear for all to see. Even the brilliant Olympian Robbie Renwick failed to turn me into a swimmer when I trained with him for my Strathmore Water DoMore Blog.

So, if I was going to conquer my fears and feel confident about a 2.4 mile swim in the sea (what am I thinking?) I decided that I would need some expert coaching. Now, I don’t know any expert swimming coaches but I do know Robert Hamilton (sorry Robert, I couldn’t resist), of Vigour Events, and I also know that Robert teaches Total Immersion, the swimming technique that is seemingly quick to master and which makes swimming almost effortless and less exhausting.

Sign me up!

I had watched videos of Robert’s class in Hamilton and as the weeks passed, my doubts started to drain away. Robert and I engaged in a game of Facebook Messenger tennis. He would serve me an invite to a class and I would volley back an excuse not to go.

I didn’t have the time, it was too far way’ I had child care issues and I wasn’t competent enough to try Total Immersion. I used all of them and more. Eventually however, he broke down my barriers and for the past few weeks, I have been receiving and even enjoying his expert tutelage at Shawlands Secondary School.

With the changing room and pool almost to ourselves, my inhibitions didn’t surface as I approached the pool and climbed in for my first lesson.

The first thing Robert asked was to see how I normally swim and he must be a great poker player as at no point did his eyes or face reveal what he thought about my er, swimming “style”.

He simply advised that over the course of the next few weeks that he would instill upon me the basics of Total Immersion swimming and that the secret to success isn’t about the power or a high turnover stroke rate but in the positioning and alignment of my head, leading arm and body as I glide through the water.

At his request, I allowed him control of my body and relaxed as he coaxed my head into a neutral position under the water. It felt so relaxing and so right that my usual desire (and urgency) to break the surface and seek air was replaced by a calmness. Robert had managed, with a wee tweak of my head, to release the tension that courses through my body whenever I attempt to swim.

Floaty McFloatFace

Next he worked on my leading arm position. Again, I allowed him free reign and control of my limbs. He gently maneuvered them under the water until he found a resting point at which my arms automatically returned to when relaxed. Everything felt natural. I knew that I was in safe hands.

Over the course of two weeks and two hours, Robert continued to describe, display and direct me in the many small but vital components of the Total Immersion stroke and the result of our efforts is below.

I am far from finished and over the next few months my lessons and my practice sessions should help me progress even further. However, I have a wee confession. As I watch this clip over and over again, I am beaming with pride.

In just two hours, I had learned the basics of Total Immersion and the prospect of swimming 2.4 miles is a little less daunting.

Just a little.

If Total Immersion swimming sounds like something that you would like to try, then Robert has Swim Sessions on Monday nights at Hamilton College and in January and March he will again be at Hamilton College for his full day Total Immersion Workshops.

And if you want to support my efforts, please consider making a small donation to my Ironman Cancer Research page.

November 25, 2016 4 comments

Cycling Running Swimming Triathlon

My First Triathlon with Fusion Triathlon Club

written by Stephen Morrison

It took a few moments for the laughing to calm down. The cause of the merriment? My answer to the question of what my aim was, when I announced I was going to lose weight. That I was going to compete in an Ironman competition and become a triathlete. I was at that point 354 pounds and had tried losing weight before, so as much as it hurt, I understood their laughter.

However, I was deadly serious.

Since I’ve started on this path and my previous path to fitness, I’ve made goal setting one of my main tools. I’ve mentioned before that I crave challenges and if something both excites and terrifies me, then there’s a good chance I’m going to sign up for it. Be it Tough Mudder, Spartan Beast or even the Copenhagen Marathon (did I ever mention that I ran a marathon….once?).

So, what is more exciting and terrifying, especially for a morbidly obese desk jockey than the thought of becoming a triathlete…an Ironman, no less. And the crazy thing is, even now that I have regained some weight, I believe that it isn’t a dream, a fancy or an outlandish pursuit. I will be an Ironman and I’m ALREADY a triathlete (and try-athlete)…..of sorts.

For a few years ago, I came across something that got me excited and partly terrified me. The Fusion Mini Triathlon at my local sports centre. How could I pass it up? Quite easily could have been the answer, as I didn’t have a bike and er, couldn’t really swim. Not triathlon stylee, at any rate. But was I going to let a couple of minor issues prevent me from realising a dream? Hell no. I would complete my first triathlon.

I learned that all swimming styles were permitted and a borrowed a bike, albeit a 12 year old, purple MTB that, unlike a fine Scottish whisky, hadn’t aged well.

So on race day I entered the arena and made my way, first to registration and then to rack my bike. I was surrounded by gleaming, shiny, finely tuned and sleek machines while the bikes weren’t too shabby either. At first, I felt a little out of place. Just like I used to, when I was obese. But everyone at Fusion was really friendly and made me feel at ease. So much so, that I felt comfortable removing my t-shirt for the swim (no matter, how much I progress, I’m still a little ashamed of my gut).

And I dived right in and was soon coursing through the swimming leg like a….well, like a not so fat non-swimmer. But I can swim breast-stroke all day (thankfully I didn’t have to) and was soon overtaking a few

and before I knew it, it was time for transition one and time for my first competitive cycle. I say competitive, but the only real competition was which out of the bike and I would break down first.

For, as I had said, the bike wasn’t new and it weighed about the same as a small family car. Plus, it had another problem. One working gear. No, it wasn’t one of these fancy training bikes, it’s gears simply didn’t work and no matter how hard I pumped my wee legs, Fred Flintstone style, everyone and I mean everyone overtook me. But, I’m not a quitter (well, not now at least) and I ploughed on (actually, I think a plough also passed me).

Eventually, it was time for my second transition. From bike to run and I was prepared and ready.

For, I had spent at least 30 mins watching youtube videos and I had been practising my dismount.

But, I’ll be honest, I did surprise myself and probably everyone else by doing a perfect transition. So much so, that it drew a few favourable comments. I say perfect, but I broke the pedal as I jumped off.

Sheer delight at finishing my first triathlon

My spirit raised, I raced into my strongest discipline. All that really means is that I’m never usually in danger of killing myself when I run. I was a little tired after the swim and cycle, but I pushed on and started to overtake a few, not many, but enough to give me hope of not finishing dead last. As I approached the finish line, I did my now mandatory sprint and raised my arms in triumph as I finished my first ever triathlon. It might only have been a wee one, and I might have ended up in the wrong third of rankings, but now I wasn’t only a runner but I was a triathlete.

Not only that, but I had outlived the bike, which was subsequently taken to the dump (I doubt that even Glasgow Bike Station would have wanted it).

I’ve since bought a couple of “proper” bikes, via my work’s cycle scheme and Vitality – you may have seen my #Everyday Athlete video.

I will also finally take swimming lessons and check out Vigour Events, who specialise in outdoor swimming. I will regain my fitness and I will see if Garmin’s Forerunner , Varia and Edge gadgets (all the gear, no idea) make me faster and more safe, as I use active travel as a means of training.

For, in 2018, I will compete in my first Ironman 70.3, while next year I might try (sorry, I couldn’t resist) and find a couple of local triathlons and/or duathlons.

From fat to fit and from try-athlete to triathlete

July 27, 2016 1 comment

Commonwealth Games #Team14 DoMore with Strathmore Swimming Triathlon Try-Athlete

Can’t Swim, Won’t Swim with Robbie Renwick

written by Stephen Morrison

I can’t really swim and if asked I don’t really want to, but when invited to swim with a Commonwealth Champion, it was time to get my Speedos on (ok, there’s never a time to get Speedos on).

There’s a reason why I like runing. There are, in fact, several reasons why I like running, but one is that it is a simple case of putting one foot in front of the other and then repeating. Yes, some of my running friends and my Garmin might go on about about cadence and vertical oscillation, but we really were born to run.

Swimming is a sport that I know is great for getting fit and strong (see pictures of Robbie Renwick) and I know it is an excellent activity for the obese and overweight. As Robbie (more about him later) explained, when asked about injuries, it is a relatively low impact sport (he’s obviously never seen me dive-bombing). However, for many obese people swimming pools are uncharted waters. When you despise how you look, the walk of shame from changing rooms to pool can strip you of your dignity, regardless of whether anyone is even looking at you.

And then there is the synchronised swimming. No, not some artistic moves but simply using my arms and legs while trying to remember to breathe (while my head is OUT of the water).

So, when I was invited by Strathmore Water to join Commonwealth Gold Medallist and British 200m Freestyle record holding Robbie Renwick and to find out more about their Do More campaign, I put aside my worries about drowning in a sea of embarrassment and took one for Team14.

I was joined by six other wonderful bloggers (including my Team14 pal Paula McGuire) and the shared apprehension seemed to ease our collective fears. Fears that we incidently didn’t need to have.

Robbie, despite only being weeks away from a wee event in Glasgow and Sunday being his day off, was a fantastic coach. Over the course of an hour he took us through various swimming drills. We focused on streamlining (don’t think I’ll ever resemble a streamline), techniques and endurance training.

Thankfully the most we had to swim was about 400 metres and the chance for me to fully embarrass myself was limited.

Or so I thought!!

Robbie was keen to help us improve every aspect of our swimming and like David Carry, who I had listened to at a Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow conference earlier in the week, he spoke at length about how making small changes and improvements to aspects of our swimming can shave seconds off times. Seconds that can mean the difference between podiums and doldrums.

One way of finishing faster is turning faster. Very seldom (IE never) do you see swimmers replicating my approach of reaching the end, stopping, turning around and starting again. Instead, they perform tumble turns. And Robbie wanted us to perform them. It is testament to his professionalism that he kept a straight face as I tumbled and turned. On my first attempt I ended up turning 90 degrees and in the lane next to mine.

However, it was in my second attempt that I invented a new style of turning.

Somehow, as I turned and pushed my legs, with all my might, I ended up with my feet out the water and ON the edge of the pool. As I lay there with only my upper body submerged, I was literally choking with laughter

Grin When You Are Swimming

Robbie, to his credit, took my incompetence in good spirit and was obviously really impressed by the progress that I made during the training session. Despite having some excellent swimmers in our group, it was quite clear that my unique style had left a lasting impression on him and his praise was totally unexpected.

After the relay race (we’ll not dwell too much on that, other than to say that the losing team had to then swim two further gruelling lengths using the fly technique that left me gasping for breath) we headed upstairs for a Q and A

I asked him about setting milestones and goals and I asked if he worked backwards. He confirmed that Rio 16 is his goal with Glasgow 2014 and the World Championships (update: he is a World Champion) his milestones. Throughout the questioning it became clear that Robbie was dedicated, determined and disciplined. Yes, he enjoys cakes (who doesn’t) but he also swims for over 30 hours every week and has strength coaches, sports psychologists and physiotherapists in his corner. Competing in Glasgow is a great honour, but he will not let that pressure affect him. He has been training for four years, in preparation for defending his Commonwealth crown. On any given day Robbie gets up at 5 am, swims 7000 metres, goes to the gym for 2.5 hours before heading back to the pool.

At the Q and A afterwards, the question I wanted to dive in with was: “Robbie, just what is your problem?”

Instead, we spoke about something we both are passionate about. Getting people to Do More. Robbie Renwick is one of three inspiring athletes who belong to Team Strathmore. Together, they are encouraging more people to get into the sporting spirit and to take small steps. To try new sports and activities. Although sharing my concerns about the accessibility of swimming to young children, he did feel that pools like Tollcross International Swimming Centre were encouraging more and more to swim.

And guess what? He’s inspired me. I’ve harboured (last water related pun) a desire to become a triathlete but felt anchored (sorry) by my lack of swimming skills. Using the training tips he imparted upon us, I am going to wade back into the pool and I will practice. Then I will participate in the Great Swim. A one mile swim of Loch Lomond.

Can’t Swim, Will Swim.

Huge thanks to Robbie Renwick and Strathmore for a fantastic experience and to Jeff, the photographer, for not filming any of my really embarrassing moments.

June 26, 2014 5 comments