bike

  • How’s your head?

    How’s your head?

    Proper head position while swimming freestyle is probably the most common thing that needs correction when I work with swimmers.

    99% of swimmers look forward instead of straight down in a neutral head and neck position.

    Can you imagine walking around looking up all day? Your neck would hurt, and you would miss out on a lot right in front of you!

    When you look forward in the water, your forehead breaks the surface of the water (creating drag), and then your hips and legs drop low, also creating drag.

    Then when you turn your head to breathe, your mouth is underwater, so you lift your head even higher to get air, and guess what? More drag, more resistance as you swim through the water! NOT FUN!

    This is one of the reasons head-up swimmers are slower in the water- too much resistance slowing them down.

    But there is a good explanation: swimming with your head up is where most new swimmers start.

    We are land mammals and need air to live, and being in water can cause stress in our brains, we could die if we don’t know what we are doing, so the fear is real!

    In addition, your fight-or-flight hormones can get triggered simply by being in the water unless you have adequately trained and built your confidence so you feel safe in the water.

    The brain will tell the body, “the air is up, so you must lift your head to breathe.” But, as mentioned above, this causes drag and makes slipping through the water in your streamline difficult.

    We must reprogram the brain, so it feels safe to face down in the water. Teach yourself to roll on your side rather than lift your head to breathe (look for my other swim technique videos on how to breathe properly while swimming in the water).

    The Paddle Lead Drill in this video will help you gain awareness of the perfect place for your head while swimming. With this drill, you can perfect your head position for less drag and still get all the air you need.

    -Start by kicking with fins on, arms by your side, and placing the paddle on the top of your head. 

    -Your forward movement will keep the paddle in place. Next, start face down, blow your bubbles, and flip onto your back to breathe, keeping the paddle in place.

    -The next progression is to kick on your side with the paddle on your head. Start by looking straight down and blowing bubbles out of your nose, then turn your head to the side to breathe without lifting the head and losing the paddle.

    -Turn the head so that one goggle and your mouth are clear of the water to breathe in, then look back down to the bottom of the pool and repeat the process. Be sure to practice both sides.

    When you have mastered the above, add your arm movement and swim freestyle, still keeping the paddle in place, breathing, and stroking.

    When the paddle stays in place the whole time, and you are not swallowing water, you know your head is in the correct position!

    Finally, remove the fins and start the whole process over again.

    Happy Swimming.

    Want to learn all the most critical skills for swimming? My Swim Essentials Program starts March 25th.

    Click HERE for complete details & registration!

    Do you have other questions? Click this link: http://www.scheduleyou.in/5ZIsVaU to schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session.

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

  • Daily Habits Lead to Big Outcomes

    Daily Habits Lead to Big Outcomes

    We’ve all heard the old saying, “A journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step.”

    But why is it so hard to remember when pursuing positive health changes, big goals, and outcomes?

    Maybe because marketers brainwash us to believe in quick, miracle fixes for everything – instant weight loss, spot reductions, and more.

    Sorry, but ancient sayings persist for a good reason: This one is true!

    So, the secret to making big, positive changes isn’t instant gratification.

    It’s making small changes to create new daily habits.

    The philosophy made a huge best-seller in the book “Atomic Habits,” which suggests we make a molecular change at first, then add to it more and more, and repeat this until a new, positive behavior becomes ingrained in our life.

    It’s the age old idea of delayed gratification: If I make this small sacrifice today, I will be really, really happy about it later.

    • If I save 10 percent of my paycheck, I’ll have money when it’s time to retire.
    • If I reduce my number of junk snacks by, say, one for the first week, then I’ll have cut them all in no time.
    • If I lift a small weight to start out and then keep lifting it until I’m stronger, I can add more weight later… and repeat the process until I’m as strong and lean as I like.
    • If I get in the water and swim 15 minutes today, it will be easier if I do it again in 2 days, and so on!

    So, as 2023 continues, keep in mind this super-wise advice to start small, make progress one step at a time… be consistent… be patient… and you will BE SUCCESSFUL in whatever you pursue.

    Click this link: http://www.scheduleyou.in/5ZIsVaU to schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session, and let’s do it together!

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

  • The Importance of Having a Coach at this Time of Year

    The Importance of Having a Coach at This Time of Year 

    Have you ever used a coach?

    Some people use them in work to get to the next level (and we sometimes call those “mentors”).

    Some use them in relationships to strengthen bonds.

    Some use them in diet and exercise to guide them through challenging periods of change.

    Some use them to learn a new sport or help them get faster in running or triathlon

    And right now, at the start of the year, it is a challenging period of change for many people. 

    Face it, even if life is going along well, you can’t help but wonder how it can get better in the new year… or worry about where you might get tripped up.

    If you want to be stronger and more effective – at anything – then you should consider hiring a coach to increase your odds of success.

    Why? Here are just three reasons.

    1. January and February always bring a ton of sheer pressure and hype that can trip you up. Resolutions, parties, projections… It can be so overwhelming! A coach helps you clear the nonsense and focus on what matters to you.
    2. A coach brings a somewhat dispassionate voice that friends and family can’t. Sure, a coach “likes” you, and maybe you’re even friendly. But a good coach stays at a respectable distance so she can see what others can’t and say what others won’t.
    3. A coach knows tricks you don’t know… like an accountant can do your taxes, and a mechanic can fix your car, right? A good coach uses her expertise to bring solutions and tactics to the table – resources YOU DO NOT KNOW ABOUT or, at least, how to use most effectively.

    Don’t let the distractions and emotions of the season cloud your judgment. Use a coach to help you see clearly and act decisively.

    You’ll be SO glad you did.

    Do you know about my 16-week (virtual) training program to help you get faster for your next triathlon in less time?

    You’ll show up confidently at the start of your next race, swimming, biking, and running past the competition, sprinting across the finish line with arms overhead, knowing you nailed it.

    Here’s how it works
    You get the ideal blueprint that makes you faster and stronger inside the 16-week Triathlon Transformation Training program

    Here’s why it’s different
    With 26 years of coaching 1000’s triathletes, I discovered the biggest struggles are:

    • You don’t know what you don’t know when it comes to learning the exact skills to be successful in the sport of triathlon.
    • Improving strength and increasing energy are the secrets to preventing injury and burnout.
    • Other programs push athletes beyond their ability with wasted junk miles and excess volume leading to disappointment and failure.
    • With my 16-week Triathlon Transformation Program, the focus is on you as an individual; your form, technique, strength, fueling, and mindset. Through video analysis, metabolic testing, holistic lifestyle coaching, and a supportive community, you will achieve all your triathlon dreams and goals to get faster in less time.

    So please use this link to fill out the application.

    I’m only accepting five new members, so space is limited. Don’t delay your dreams another day!

    I look forward to hearing from you soon.

    Coach Erinne Guthrie

    Click this link: http://www.scheduleyou.in/5ZIsVaU to schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session, and let’s do it together!

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

  • Is This The Hardest Part for You Too?

     Is This the Hardest Part for You Too?

    Starting something – ANYTHING – is often the most challenging part.

    But if you can take action, one little first step, it gets easier.

    This isn’t a self-help platitude. IT’S SCIENCE!

    Remember Sir Isaac Newton? He said a body at rest tends to stay that way, and a body in motion will stay that way, too. 

    The point is, don’t feel bad about yourself because it’s sometimes hard to leave the house and go to the gym,……. or get on the bike……… or out the door for a run… start building a new healthy habit… or start doing anything you REALLY want to do but can’t seem to get motivated about.

    I have been struggling with this myself this year.

    The solution is often to take one small step. Just one. If you want to go work out, then please, start by putting on your gym clothes and your sneakers.

    Tell yourself that’s all you must do: Just get dressed for the run, gym, etc.

    Then what?

    Well, shoot. Now you’re dressed; you might as well go out the door, right? And then what are you going to do except start running… See what I’m doing here?

    Seriously! It’s a simple mind trick that works wonders. It’s like how a recovering alcoholic tells herself she just has to go one day at a time without drinking – even though she knows full well that she can’t ever do it again.

    I started this year with walks and weights. Then walk/run and a bike ride.

    I went from training 1x/ week to now up to 4-5x, and I can tell you it feels so good to be back, and my body wants more!

    Little bites are so much more digestible than giant ones!

    One action leads to another… causing momentum… and so on…

    And if you need support getting started, I’m here for it…

    Click this link: http://www.scheduleyou.in/5ZIsVaU to schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session, and let’s do it together!

    Do you know about my 16-week (virtual) training program to help you get faster for your next triathlon in less time?

    You’ll show up confidently at the start of your next race, swimming, biking, and running past the competition, sprinting across the finish line with arms overhead, knowing you nailed it.

    Here’s how it works
    You get the ideal blueprint that makes you faster and stronger inside the 16-week Triathlon Transformation Training program

    Here’s why it’s different
    With 26 years of coaching 1000’s triathletes, I discovered the biggest struggles are:

    • You don’t know what you don’t know when it comes to learning the exact skills to be successful in the sport of triathlon.
    • Improving strength and increasing energy are the secrets to preventing injury and burnout.
    • Other programs push athletes beyond their actual ability with wasted junk miles and excess volume leading to disappointment and failure.
    • With my 16-week Triathlon Transformation Program, the focus is on you as an individual; your form, technique, strength, fueling, and mindset. Through video analysis, metabolic testing, holistic lifestyle coaching, and a supportive community, you will achieve all your triathlon dreams and goals to get faster in less time.

    So please use this link to fill out the application.

    I’m only accepting five new members, so space is limited. Don’t delay your dreams another day!

    I look forward to hearing from you soon.

    Coach Erinne Guthrie

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

  • You’re Right

    You’re Right

    Henry Ford said a great many wise things.

    My favorite: “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.”

    And this is never more powerful to remember at a turning point, like the start of a new year, when we look forward with hope, excitement, and – yes – sometimes even fear.

    It’s OK to be afraid. Just remember that it can’t stop you from doing what you need to do. And the key to overcoming that fear isn’t to wait for it to go away.

    The key is to decide on the next right thing to do, acknowledge the fear, and then do the right thing anyway.

    Your self-belief must be strong enough to propel you past the doubt. Call it faith if you want to – in yourself or something more powerful.

    But hold onto that belief during the tough times because this committed mindset and bravery will be tested repeatedly.

    • Can I have the healthy life I want?
    • Can I be the kind of partner/parent/friend/employee I aspire to be?
    • Can I love myself and those around me every day, even when it’s hard?
    • Can I do something as big as a triathlon or Ironman?

    Whether you think you can or you think you can’t… YOU’RE RIGHT.

    Resolve to make a positive choice. To believe in yourself.

    Are you interested in learning how I can help you with your health, wellness, and triathlon goals?

    Click this link: http://www.scheduleyou.in/5ZIsVaU to schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session, and let’s do it together!

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

  • Why New Year’s Plans Often Fail

    Why New Year’s Plans Often Fail

    Every January, millions of people make promises to themselves in New Year’s Resolutions.

    • “This is the year I finally get in shape!”
    • “This is the year I will do a triathlon.”
    • “This is the year I lose the weight!”
    • “This is the year I start my business!”

    And then, by February, the vast majority have failed already.

    Let’s talk about why.

    If we discuss a few common reasons why well-intentioned resolutions fail so often, then maybe we can find a better way to reach the desired end.

    1. They’re too vague. Instead of saying, “I want to get in shape,” say you’re going to spend 15 minutes walking around the neighborhood twice a week. (Don’t worry – it will lead to more.)
    2. Don’t be so demanding of yourself. Realize that the best change is gradual.
    3. Choose to do something positive that you enjoy, and then you won’t have to force yourself to do it every day.
    4. You don’t track your progress. If you want to eat better, download an app to record what you eat every day. If you want to slim down, take a photo of yourself each week so you can see that, despite how you might feel, you really are making progress.
    5. You don’t know your “why.” If you don’t have a compelling reason for doing what you’re doing, it’s bound to fail.
    6. There’s no date set to accomplish the goal. Set a date and create a mantra around it. “It is March 30th, and I completed a triathlon and feel stronger and healthier than ever” repeat it often!
    7. Follow a proven system. Surround yourself with others on the same journey, and hire a coach if you need help.

    The key is to examine your desire a little more deeply, and then take little, bite-sized actions each day to get started.

    As they say, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” And is followed by another… and another…

    As a gift, here is my 90-minute Vision Planning workshop recording.

    The feedback was excellent. Please use it to help create a true vision for 2023. It will only be available this week, so don’t delay!

    Need some help in creating your version of your best life? Click this link: http://www.scheduleyou.in/5ZIsVaU to schedule your FREE Triathlon Breakthrough Session and let’s do it together!

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

  • Eat That Frog to Stop Procrastinating

    Eat That Frog to Stop Procrastinating

    Eat a live frog first thing every morning; then, you can face the day knowing the worst is behind you.

    So goes a theory about how to stop procrastinating made popular by author Brian Tracy.

    He says “eating a frog” is like tackling your most difficult task first thing each day – which is also the one that can do the most for you.

    Now, no one is actually suggesting you eat a frog – live or otherwise!

    But I bet you have an unpleasant chore you’ve been putting off… and putting off…

    That’s been bugging you, distracting you, and making you feel like an irresponsible procrastinator.

    So, why not do it today? Right now.

    Just imagine how much clearer your mind will be when “It” is finally off your plate. Imagine the brain power you can now devote to other things you’ll enjoy more. 

    It’s just a matter of making priorities and decisions and then having the determination and discipline to follow through on them. Like everything that’s hard at first, it gets easier each time you do it – and experience the reward.

    If you are getting started on your nutrition and triathlon training, my 21-day get Faster Challenge starts on December 1st Thursday. Today is the last day to join.

    I will teach you how to eat that frog of putting your health and lifestyle first for 21 days!

    Join here Now

    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.

  • Busy Dad becomes first time Ironman in 12:10 with only 14 weeks of training; Rockstar Triathlete Carlos Guadamuz

    Busy Dad becomes first time Ironman in 12:10 with only 14 weeks of training; Rockstar Triathlete Carlos Guadamuz

    Coach’s Notes:

    Thank you, Carlos, for trusting the process of my 16-week Triathlon Transformation training program. You are proof that it works and achieved the goal in 14 weeks instead of 16. I truly appreciate your dedication to your goals and how you managed all the training while working full-time, getting to the kid’s soccer games, and balancing life with your supportive wife! You, indeed, are a Rockstar Triathlete!

    Congratulations!

    Age:

    46


    Profession:

    Product Management – I create, build, and market products. Mainly techy ones 🙂


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

    I wanted to compete in my first Ironman, and I felt I needed coaching for a race as big and complex as the Ironman.

    I did my first 70.3 last December 2021 with zero coaching, and although I didn’t have a bad time, I didn’t feel I was at my full potential and the experience was a bit painful.

    So, rather than a feeling of accomplishment when I finish it, I had a lot of doubts and “what ifs” in my head. In my own view, the best way to prove myself that I am better than that was to finish a full Ironman. However, this time around I was going to do it with a coach.

    I saw coach Erinne giving the pre-race clinic at Miami-Man 2021 and liked everything she said. I also saw her on race day surrounded by her team, all wearing the same colors, which made me appreciate from afar the team spirit and the confidence of having a coach. That positive image stayed in my mind when it was time to choose a coach.


    What is your “A” race for this season?

    My A-race was Ironman Florida, 2022, because it was my first Ironman. However, the Key Biscayne triathlon last September (international distance) was also a good race because it gave me, entirely unexpectedly, my first podium.

    Ironman Florida was a significant achievement because it gave me a lot of “firsts;” my first ever Ironman, my first ever 112-mile ride, and my first ever marathon. To me, it was also an important achievement because I am quite new to triathlons. My first ever triathlon race was MiamiMan, less than a year ago, and my longest triathlon was Ironman 70.3 FL, in December last year (11 months ago). I actually rode a road bike for the first time only 18 months ago and bought my first triathlon bike in May (less than 6 months ago). My only advantage was swimming, as I have swum since I was little, with my first open water competition at the age of 10.

    Also, Ironman Florida was a big achievement for me, not only because of those new challenges but also because I only had 14 weeks to go when I started training with Full Circle.

    The Key Biscayne International distance triathlon was a total surprise in terms of the result.

    I had a 9hr super day the weekend before and another long brick the day before. So, the complete opposite to going into the race fresh. I was actually tired on race day.

    However, the objective was exactly that, to test me under those conditions. Also, to practice before Ironman all the elements of a race, mainly building and following a race plan. My plan demanded a fast pace, which I was doubting I could follow. However, I stayed on it during the race and it delivered a category second place. It was a good lesson I was going to take to Ironman Florida.

    Please share your BIG goals:

    My goals were all based on Ironman FL and they were growing as I kept training. My initial goal was just to finish the Ironman because I was truly uncertain if I could do it.

    Then, the goal was to finish it with zero walking during the run (which is something I did at the end of my 70.3).

    Then it was the time, initially, it was based on the rule of thumb of doubling my 70.3 times and adding 1hr – I finished the 70.3 in 6:06 so the expected time was 13:12. As I was getting closer to the race I had to build a race plan, which estimated my finish time at 12:25

    In the end, I finished with an Ironman time of 12:10, which beat my race plan estimate and was lower than twice my 70.3 time. Not only did I not walk but I achieved a negative split, running my fastest pace at the last 6 miles.

    I felt so strong and determined that I didn’t need to stop at aid stations from mile 23rd onward.

    Tell me about your successes so far:

    I believe the results reflect the training. So, in my view, a key success was to be able to complete and follow all my training as was written by coach Erinne.

    I never missed a single long-distance ride, run, or swim.

    It was a big success not only because most of the last sessions I broke personal records in terms of distance and time – like my first ever 100-mile ride or my first 20-mile run.

    But also because I was able to achieve those without injuries or extreme fatigue. That was a key success for me because it was one of my major fears. Especially after experiencing injuries in the past that made me stop training altogether.

    I believe that completing successfully all the training was possible due to different elements.

    First, the training plan, which had a progressive approach, included recovery sessions (stretches, foam rolling, etc.), and strength sessions and allowed for resting or down periods. Also, the focus on good technique reduced the injury risk. And then the personal guidance and experience from the coach helped alleviate specific muscle pains when they surfaced, providing tips on technique, and instructing focused strength and stretching exercises.

    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:

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

    1. The Running – based on my 70.3 experience and previous injuries, I considered it my weakest link. However, I surprised myself with my Ironman run.

    2. Nutrition – It was the biggest eye-opener for me. I went from just basically drinking water and eating a couple of gels, to building a race plan with calories, carbs, and electrolytes per hour.

    3. Training Capacity – I wasn’t sure I was going to complete what I saw in Training Peaks, but I did it all

    4. Technique – overall improvement especially on the run but even on the swim which was my strongest sport.  

    What excites you the most about being involved in triathlon?

    For sure the example I am giving my kids. Which I am fully convinced is the best way to lead.

    The best way to explain this is through an experience with my older boy. He was nine when I finished my 70.3 and not long after that, he came to me with a website showing a triathlon race for kids and asking me to register him. We started training for two months with very little pushing from my side. He got a good result and we all felt very proud of his achievement.

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


    As I mentioned before it was the team spirit that caught my initial attention. Full Circle has been able to build a community of people with the same passion, where everybody can help and encourage someone with a question or moment of doubt. I also learned so many things that were crucial to finish my first Ironman, like technique, training methods, nutrition, and overall wellness.   

    Interested in my triathlon training program? Complete this application.

    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.

  • Seasons Change, But Your Goals Shouldn’t

    Seasons Change, But Your Goals Shouldn’t

    As fall heads toward winter this month, you might find yourself wanting to change your goals with the seasons.

    It’s only natural.

    The days grow shorter. The air has more of a chill. It might even snow where you live.

    But don’t let the change of seasons change your goals. That’s a slippery slope at any time of year, regardless of the temperature.

    Your goals are based on year-round values and desires, not ideas that rise and fall with the thermometer. 

    Now, this doesn’t mean we can’t change our TACTICS for reaching goals. By that, I mean, we can exercise indoors more when it’s cold out, or be more mindful of how much time we’re spending bundled up on the couch.

    But the REASONS for adopting the tactics and strategies you’ve chosen? Well, those remain the same. And so should your intentions.

    Remember, we reach our healthy living goals not quickly, but over time – by making consistent, steady efforts. We’re talking about HOW WE CHOOSE TO LIVE, not just what we’re going to do right now.

    Take comfort and inspiration from the changing seasons. They’re powerful, natural, and consistent, and lead every year to the next step.

    So, welcome the winter – and keep your eyes on the prize.

    Ready to find out if my program is right for you?
    Fill out my FREE Triathlon Transformation application HERE

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

  • Set Yourself Up to Succeed in the New Year Starting Now

    Set Yourself Up to Succeed in the New Year Starting Now

    The problem with most “New Year’s Resolution” style goals is that we wait until January 1 to start them, and bolt off the starting line… until we collapse in exhaustion a few weeks into January.

    This year, start warming up TODAY for January 1. Follow this step-by-step process to form goals and act on them now, so you can sail into the new year with a month or two of success under your belt.

    1. Think of “goals” in addition to “resolutions.” There’s so much stigma associated with New Year’s Resolutions because most of them fail – quickly. A goal is more resonant, has more weight, and isn’t something you think about only once a year. Still, research suggests that people who state a New Year’s Resolution are more likely to achieve it than those who avoid the word altogether.
    2. Use the time between now and January to practice and discover. You say you want to eat more fruits and vegetables, maybe? Great! You have weeks now to try different types of produce, play with recipes, and experiment with meal prep.
    3. Start workouts now so that it doesn’t feel like such a shocking change to your routine in January. Think of it as a weeks-long warmup or “soft launch” or dress rehearsal. By the time 2023 starts, you’ll be over the jitters, familiar with the location, and ready to really get started.
    4. Mentally prepare for the challenge of your resolution or goal. Think about what you set out to do in previous years. Where were your struggles? What came easily? Stay positive in your mindset, and think about gradual change, not overnight transformations.
    5. Remember to be SMART. Choose goals that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-Sensitive.

    These steps will help you slide into the new year full of confidence and determination to succeed in 2023. There’s no time like today to start planning for tomorrow!

    Ready to start this now? Please fill out my Triathlon Transformation application which covers everything mentioned above, and set up your GOALS for a triathlon! Let’s Go!

    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.