One of the most significant life changing moments for me was when I became a Mom.  The added responsibility of taking care of another human being has been extremely overwhelming, and the sacrifices along the way have been endless.   The days of just worrying about myself have come and gone.  Today it is all about balance and finding that happy medium, which does exist…if you let it.

When I first entered the world of triathlon almost two decades ago, I followed the path of so many - I dove in head first, not knowing what I was taking on.  My first race was an Olympic Distance, followed quickly by a Half Ironman Distance, and then by an Ironman distance.  Although an athlete growing up, more than 10 years had passed since my high school glory days, and to say that I lived a sedentary lifestyle was an under-estimation.  I was an attorney in New York City and all what I did was work.  But as I approached 30, I became tired of being stressed and unfit, so in January of 2000 I hopped on the treadmill and did a two mile run.  It nearly killed me.  

I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with a variety of athletes, their abilities ranging from beginner triathletes participating in their first event to experienced, elite age group athletes. Regardless of their experience or ability level, the common thread for all is their pursuit of a personal goal.  Being integral to helping athletes achieve their personal athletic successes is highly rewarding. What makes it such a positive challenge is the fact that every athlete is different. Each athlete has different means and availability for training, differing levels of motivation, and individual attributes that make them respond to training stimulus differently. What is consistent, however, are a number of factors I believe will result in individual success. Outlined below are what I consider these top eleven factors to be. Why eleven?  Because we know that #11 always misses out on the top 10 list.