Daniel Plews joins the team

I’ve said it before – although triathletes compete alone, the reality is that if we’re going to perform at our best we need a strong team around us. So, I’m delighted to announce that Daniel Plews from Physis Performance has joined my support team in a coaching role.

Who is Daniel Plews?
Dan, or should I say Dr Dan, since he’s got a PhD, is a Performance Physiologist and high performance coach based out of New Zealand. His research papers have been widely acknowledged and he’s got an impressive track record working with elite athletes. I think he’d be the first to admit he’s a ‘numbers man’ in the best sense of the term.

“I’m really excited to be working with Tim. So far we’re 9 weeks in and he’s just such a “coachable” guy. Very responsive to advice, and a true professional in the way he conducts his training. Looking at the numbers in training he’s certainly got what it takes to go all the way in Ironman. It’s just a case of giving him the optimal training stimulus for his own physiology and needs.”

Already I’ve been able to benefit from the analysis he’s provided on my performances in training and the insights that have come from session data. This is taking me into new areas of performance enhancement and I’m learning a lot about my body and getting a fresh perspective on how it functions and responds. Plus, I think if you want to grow as a person and as an athlete you need to keep exploring and pushing yourself to expand your knowledge and try new things. Dan is helping me to do that and it’s already making a difference.

A big thank you to Gilesy
It’s great to be able to tap into the expertise, the wisdom and the encouragement of others, especially other people who have done the hard yards, who have experience on their side and who have thoughtfully and carefully developed their craft. For me, Grant Giles has definitely been one of those people. He has advised me, trained me, kicked me in the backside when I’ve deserved it and told me the truth when I needed to hear it- even if I didn’t really want to sometimes!

Gilesy and I have shared the journey – good times and tough times – since I was just a lad starting out in triathlon. As well as being a coach, he’s also been a good mate and that’s something that will definitely continue into the future. I’m thankful for everything Grant has done for me – basically I wouldn’t be where I am today without his support and guidance. Thanks mate!

I’m looking forward to the future – Kona and beyond. If I could share one bit of advice with you, it would be this – surround yourself with good people. Not only will it help you get where you want to go, but it will make getting there much more enjoyable.
Cheers!
Tim