Who are you, what is your main goal and why did you decide to have a coach?
Charlie Barrett – part time (trying -to-be) athlete, part time injury or ill. The decision to have a coach was two fold, positive interactions and progression through swimming coaching and utilising the skills and expertise of someone who has been there and done it before
What do you value about the coaching that you that you didn’t have before – and how is it going so far?
The individualism of the sessions and feedback, a very personal service which is tailored around my life, family and availability. There is also the accountability aspect that sets the bar high but great to work towards. So far it has been great – I’ve had nagging illnesses / injuries that has forced Ali to adapt my training schedule but everything has been really good
What was the most difficult thing to get used to when you started the coaching process – and how do you feel about it now?
Building it into a routine. Once it becomes a habit it is easier to stay consistent as you know and expect what comes. At the moment, I am still building up that consistency that is still feeling a little alien but I know with time that it will become easier
How does the coaching fit in with your lifestyle – and do you have a lot to balance in your life?
As per the previous comment, balance and consistency are key. With a relatively busy family life, young child, and a busy work schedule it’s about knowing where and when those training opportunities are, when the pool is available and the time that I can make available for coaching / training. Being fit and healthy is a way of life. This is just a means to support that lifestyle and help to better integrate (enjoyable) training into my routine
What are the main things you have learnt in you time as a coached athlete with Ali?
He’s easy to speak to. Clear in his communications and expectations of you as an athlete. Knows his shit
Do you feel like you have developed as an athlete since starting the coaching process, if so, how?
100% - my swimming has come on leaps and bounds, in such a short space of time. Now we’ve extended out to the coaching as well, still in the first month, I feel the same progress will be made with the bike and run too
Why did you choose Ali to be your coach and what do you think about him?
The person – he’s human and understanding. He drives high standards but is adaptable. He’s passionate and invested in us as people and athletes. If you don’t have the human connection, then for me, there is no point. A coach needs to be able to have that relationship with the athlete otherwise there is no added value