2024 Brings New Challenges
Everyday we welcome hundreds of inspiring members into our gyms, pools, and exercise classes, many with their own unique fitness goals. For some it’s all-round wellbeing, for others it’s the camaraderie and friendship.
For Laurence, who trains at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre, the goal is to complete his first Ironman in Portugal later this year.
The Ironman is a long-distance triathlon race consisting of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and a marathon 26.22-mile run completed in that order.
Despite having been a runner for over ten years, the swimming and cycling is entirely new to Laurence, something that we’ve been able to support him with.
Laurence has a friend to thank for signing him up to the challenge, admitting: “I can’t remember when I decided I wanted to take on an Ironman, all I know is I’m signed up (thanks, Niall…) and it’s happening. It was a real challenge to accept that I would be a total novice at cycling and swimming (my Kellogg’s 5 metre badge doesn’t count as professional, apparently…).
“It’s not just a physical challenge, it’s a mental battle. It’s so difficult to acknowledge that you’re a beginner, you’ll make lots of mistakes, you’ll need lots of help and you won’t always look cool (especially swimming, what an unflattering sport, but at least we all look silly in goggles!) – but even just a few months down the line I’m amazed at the improvements I’ve made.
I know I still have a lot of work to do, which is why I’m so thankful for the support at Cleethorpes Leisure Centre. From the Group Cycling classes (and a lot of hyping up) with the fantastic Liane, to the Adult Swimming lesson with the wonderful Elaine, to the constant advice from other members, I am so thankful for the support in my journey.
Laurence Cook, Leisure Member
As well as weekly swimming, classes and gym workouts, Laurence also runs with Cleethorpes Athletics Club at King George V Stadium on Tuesdays. Laurence added:
“It can be scary to get started, but I’ve had nothing but support and encouragement from everyone I’ve met along the way. If you’re thinking of starting anything, go for it! “Be curious, not judgmental” – Ted Lasso
We wish Laurence all the best with his training, ahead of the Ironman later this year on 19th October.
If you are training for an event and would like to share your story with us, we’d love to hear from you!
