Emma Keys
Emma qualified and represented Great Britain in the age-group team at Hamburg in 2007 and this year in Vancouver at the ITU Triathlon World Championships. She juggles her training, racing and fitness around her full time family, consisting of her husband and teenagers who are also very sport orientated. Emma has been coached for over a year now, so it was time to catch up with her and ask her to share some of her thoughts.
About being coached...
Having a coach has made a big difference to me, having a plan every week, making sure I don't do too much, having someone to tell you to ease back before you get ill. I've had emotional and physical support when I've needed it during challenging training phases and race experiences. It has been a great year and I have learnt a great deal and had some great experiences!
Having a specific training schedule put together for me means I have no empty sessions, and I know what I am trying to achieve that week.
About feedback....
Having Fiona on the end of the phone when things dont go quite to plan is fantastic always with a really positive slant. It helps that your coach has been through simular situations when training and racing, and I find that really valuable.
About goals and motivation....
I am always up for a new challenge or adventure and want to experience as much as I can. It is really helpful to get advice and ideas from Fiona of what to try and achieve next. Triathlon makes me feel great! I get a real sense of achievement that I have worked really hard and most of the time that hard work has paid off!
About her best performance/ experience achieved so far.....
Qualifying for the worlds last year after feeling that I probably wasnt good enough, with Fiona's help working really hard and achieving my dream.
What's next for you....
Ironman probably 2010 has to be done!
