From First Session to Ironman: An 18-Month Transformation Journey

Dom competing in the Ironman 70.3 in Portugal

One of the most rewarding parts of coaching is seeing where consistency, structure, and the right foundations can lead over time. Dom’s journey is a great example of how long-term thinking and progressive training can open doors to challenges that once felt completely out of reach. I'm very proud of my client Dom on how far he has come 💪

“After working with Alex for 6 months I signed up for an Ironman 70.3 in Portugal. It gave me 12 months more of training time with Alex while also learning to run and swim. A lot can happen in 18 months. Working with Alex helped me kick start a journey to lose 12kg and put on muscle. As a newbie to running, without getting a foundation for strength training with Alex I think I would have also run into injuries along the way. Now I’m looking forward to taking part in a full iron distance in Austria in 2026.”

Alex’s Coaching Perspective

Like many people, endurance events can seem appealing, but without the right physical foundations, they often lead to burnout or injury.

After six months of structured strength training, we had built a solid base. Making a commitment to the Ironman 70.3 date in Portugal gave us a full 12-months to prepare properly.

From my perspective as a coach, this timeframe helped us carefully plan Dom's programme to help manage his fatigue, recovery, and body re-composition over the long term, as well as carefully managing strength training alongside his endurance work.

Why Strength Training Matters for Endurance Athletes

For anyone new to running or endurance sport, strength training plays a key role in injury prevention, movement efficiency, and long-term progression. Strength work helps support:

• Healthier joints and connective tissue

• Improved posture and running mechanics

• The ability to tolerate increasing training volumes

• Injury Prevention

• Long-term health

• Improved performance

A Long-Term Approach to Results

Over 18 months, Dom lost 12kg, gained muscle, and developed the physical and mental resilience needed to take on endurance racing. These results didn’t come from quick fixes or extreme approaches, but from structured programming, patience, and consistent effort.

Now, the focus is on a full Ironman distance in Austria in 2026. With a strong base already in place, the goal is to continue building sustainably while keeping health and performance at the centre of progress

Thinking About Your Own Training Journey?

Whether your goal is fat loss, strength, injury prevention, or preparing for an endurance event, the principles remain the same: build strong foundations, train with intent, and play the long game.

If you’re based in Edinburgh or want some online help, I offer support that’s tailored to your goals - whatever stage you’re at. Get in touch to start your own journey.