Athlete Review

Who are you, what is your main goal and why did you decide to have a coach?

I'm a person who is on the path of becoming an ultra runner whilst at the same time a full-time worker and part-time student. As said main goal is ultra, I might give a go to one or two triathlons in the future. The reason for having a coach is to get the best out of the little time I have on my hands in training. Knowing what I want and having to achieve it whilst balancing other spheres of life is quintessential. And having a structure and plan of training is very fruitful

What do you value about the coaching that you didn’t have before - and how is it going so far?

The greatest value at current coaching is the ability to balance all parts of life, use time wisely in order to get the best out of it. And the ability to discuss training plans, to understand the process

What was the most difficult thing to get used to when you started the coaching process - and how do you feel about it now?

The most challenging thing can be voicing oneself. To double-check and talk about plans and not feel awkward about it. But that was not an issue with Ali and he is genuine and approachable and professional as a coach. Now after working for a year with Ali we have great, healthy working relationships whereby I can openly voice myself out and talk about anything

How does the coaching fit in with your lifestyle – and do you have a lot to balance in your life?

Coaching does fit in my life quite well. Due to the business of life, I have a lot to balance in life, so time management is monumental. So it is with coaching where Ali uses time greatly to get the best out of it and prepare me for races and events.  Which has been working great so far

What are the main things you have learned in you time as a coached athlete with Ali?

Consistency, discipline, and dedication are the keys. There are no shortcuts. Physical and mental health have to go together in training plans, in order to function. And to balance life competently in general

Do you feel like you have developed as an athlete since starting the coaching process, if so, how?

I do indeed, PB's are a great example of that. Doing so far only 2 marathon races with Ali as a coach, I've taken 29 minutes of previous marathon times. But also I'm more aware of the process and body. Being able to understand and visualize the process while at the same time paying attention to the body and taking proper care of it

Why did you choose Ali to be your coach and what do you think about him?

I've chosen Ali as he was genuine and straightforward. It was very easy to find mutual language and understanding and it has been working great so far. I think he is genuine, and him being an athlete and having academic knowledge around training, he is able to connect both worlds for the best of athletes. And he's funny to which adds it up greatly!