At EXPERIENCETriathlon we strive to completely satisfy our clients!
Praise for our coaches:
Coach Joe:
"I have been with Coach Joe since Aug of 2006. At that time I had no idea what I was getting into other than I was looking for that next challenge in my life. Boy, what a ride it has been so far! With Coach Joe’s help, I have been on a continuous journey to discover my physical and mental capabilities for endurance athletics. Having Coach Joe there is invaluable as a guide to training safely and productively. He also serves as a source of accountability that I need to stay on the path. We work together to develop yearly goals around which my training program is tailored. As a result of having a personal coach like Joe, I have been able to see improvement in my races from year to year. I am now more physically fit than I was as a teenager and I view life in a more positive way than ever before. Lastly, Coach Joe is one of my biggest fans, cheering me on at many of the races I have participated in. It doesn’t get any better than that! Thanks Coach Joe!!" – Jeff P
"Words cannot express my gratitude for your coaching, support and guidance throughout these last 11 months. You promised to get us ready for Ironman Wisconsin and indeed you did! I felt great throughout the day and exceeded my finish time goals! I couldn't have done it without you and the great support network you have built. I will cherish not only the memories of the day itself, but also of all the training events that led up to it. The feeling of accomplishment is indescribable and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me achieve it. Thank you!!" - JenM
"Dear Coach Joe, you have helped me to realize a personal goal and dream to become a Triathlete. I never thought this dream could come true. I imagined that it was beyond my reach. Then, last spring when I registered for your triathlon training program, my beliefs changed and grew through each workout. Since then, I have been on a journey toward health and happiness. You encourage, inspire, and motivate me to do my best. You challenge, but also guide and support me in working toward my goals. It's always great to meet and interact on a one to one basis with you as well as be part of your ET Team. Every time we talk I find our conversations very informative, helpful, and uplifting. Thank you for being a great coach, and being a person who has had a transforming effect on my life." - Agnieszka M
"Coach Joe, Ironman was one of the most amazing times of my life and I owe it all to you and the ET team. Words can't express the sense of accomplishment. From our first meeting I had faith in you and never doubted the plan. I will always be grateful. Thanks again!" - RichK
"Coach Joe can make an athlete out of any couch potato; shift the attitude of any naysayer into personal triumph; restore grass and sun to any winter wasteland. There is no one better. I am blessed he passed my way and plan to stay on his path." - Nina C
"Coach Joe, your Next Level Challenge class was just the thing to break me out of my running 'rut'. I had been trying in vain on my own to bring my 5K times down and maybe break into mid-level running distances. I lacked confidence and knowledge, and you provided both in plenty! Thank you so much for all of the time you took to make sure I understood the training concepts you introduced, and also for all of the injury-prevent tips. Since I took your class I have dropped my personal best in the 5K from over thirty minutes to 26:34. I also ran my first 10K in 6 years and blew away my old record. Now I'm enrolled in your weekly track workout class, and I am gaining in speed and confidence. The only thing I have lost to date is body fat. Thank you!!!" - DrewR
"Joe takes his passion, enthusiasm, and the love of triathlon and incorporates into his teaching. Whether you are the experienced triathlete looking to improve on times, or the novice beginner, whatever skill level, you will leave each training session inspired, confident, ready to take on any challenge. I'm hooked. Thanks Coach Joe!!" - LynnB.
"Coach Joe has taken me from "couch potato" to "Triathlete in training". I came into Triathlons as a way to motivate myself to get back in shape. I was in the worst shape of my life and going from a 34 inch waist to a 38 inch waist was the final straw. I finally realized how bad things had gotten. I decided it was time to make a change and lucky for me, I met Joe at the same time. I signed up with Joe and ExperienceTriathlon as soon as I met him and his positive attitude. Because of Joe I have been able to change my life not only physically but mentally. I know I can do anything I put my mind to now. When I started training with Joe, I could only swim about 2 lengths before being exhausted, I could barely run for 1 minute without running out of breath, and I hadn't gone on a bike ride in a long time. Now I am able to swim over 1600 meters (a whole mile!!) in 1 training session, I have already run my first 5K race ever, and I log 15 miles on my bike like it is nothing. In a little over 6 weeks Joe has not only helped change my lifestyle, but maybe even saved me from a future of health related problems and illnesses. I fully recommend Joe to anyone who will listen. I can't thank him enough for what he has done for me. Thank You Coach!!" - Jeff S.
"With a friend's encouragement, I competed in my first triathlon a couple of years ago and was hooked! I decided I was ready to take my fitness to the next level but wasn't sure how. After years of working out with no real direction, I decided to give ET a try. Since working with Coach Joe, I have seen a huge improvement in my strength and endurance. Even more importantly, I have learned how to push myself harder than I had ever thought possible. The phrase "I didn't know I had it in me" definitely applies here! The support I have received from Joe and all of the coaches has been invaluable. I was looking for a group with like fitness goals and interests, and the ET family has provided that and then some! I am so glad I took the leap with ET, and can't wait to see what the future holds." Alicia R.
"Coach Joe, Thanks again for the CardiO2 Run class. You are truly gifted as a coach and I thoroughly enjoyed every week. You helped me achieve my goal of ridding my head of those "demons" and increasing my endurance/speed... so now I can honestly say: 'I LOVE RUNNING!'" - Dawn B.
"I truly believe that surrounding yourself with good people will ensure you some level of success in our sport. Joe has been one of these people for me. I always have appreciated his perspective and straight forward approach!
Every year in Madison, I see Joe as I exit the water, twice on Observation Hill of the bike, and several times on the run course. It always means a lot to hear his words of encouragement.
One thing I have learned about triathlon is that you can never be totally self-sufficient. Eventually you will get to a point where you will need a physical therapist, doctor, nutritionist, bike mechanic, coach, etc... When that time comes, it is good to know where you can turn." - Nick K
"Coach Joe, I really enjoyed your 5K Training Program. You and the other coaches were great motivators. I have continued to run and completed the Shamrock Shuffle 8K yesterday in 47.53. I now log about 15 miles a week on average with a long run of 5 - 7 on the weekend. I can honestly say that the tips and information I picked up from the 5K program really helped get me to this point. One of the best things about the program are the people that make it work. You and the other coaches were fantastic!" - Bob N.
Back to top
Coach Suzy:
"I don't consider myself to be an easy athlete to work with, as I'm pretty detailed-oriented, and will get pretty fixated or focused on a particular area to work on at any given point in time....this being said, Coach Suzy has been the most amazing coach for me, always willing to help me find my solution, and improve my performance while doing so. She has helped me remember that triathlon is FUN, and not just about the competition! She has helped me keep my head on straight, and gotten me through some frustrating periods, always keeping a positive and energetic spin on things. And she has encouraged me to be the very best I can be, celebrating alongside me when I've had those really cool "highs" that come after a good workout, or a good race. She is so much more than just a coach--she is a mentor, and a friend, and I can't possibly thank her enough for the huge impact she has had in my life. I just love this sport, and I know without any shadow of a doubt that this is in large part to having Suzy as my coach! I love ya, Suzy!" Sarah F.
"'There is a string between us.' A fantastic coach once said this to me while running with me. I was encouraged all the way that someone was there to help get me through a rough run, acting as an invisible string to pull me to the goal. That is coach Suzy. She’s a dynamic woman who takes the time to really get to know her athletes and figure out what is in their best interests. She is the coach that greets you with a huge smile and open arms to welcome you into the ET family. Whether I am completing a harder race or one that I have done before, Suzy is there to support my success and share my achievement. There is more to a coach than just someone who tells you what to do and when to do it. A coach is someone who shares your triumphs and helps you through the difficult times. Suzy embodies these qualities. Whether training for my first triathlon or my first half marathon, Suzy has been there to pull me along and maintain a tiny string between us. I put in the work and the sweat but Suzy is right there with me to make sure that someone is guiding me through it all. What a coach and what a gift! Suzy makes the hard workouts easier and the unimaginable a reality! Thank you for helping me to become the athlete that I am today!" Sara B.
"Suzy introduced me to running and helped me reach my personal goal of running a 5K. The beginners run class she led provided a welcoming and friendly environment to learn the basics, get started running and be inspired by others. Suzy’s enthusiasm and encouragement kept me going and enabled me to complete the course despite the rain, snow and freezing cold. Thanks to Suzy, I now run regularly and feel the benefits of a healthier and more balanced lifestyle, and I’m already thinking about my next challenge." Martin A.
"Coach Suzy, thank you for all you did for me in the Beginner Running Class. I went from hating running, to looking forward to it. I didn't realize how proper clothing or proper stretching could add so much to my progress. Since taking the class with you I have cut six minutes off my 5K races. Thank you for being such a great motivator, and making me believe that I, too, could do it." Tracy R.
Back to top
Coach Greg:
"Coach Greg, after weeks of practice in your triathlon class I finally figured it out!! I found my rhythm. I'm actually looking forward to going in the pool again tomorrow. What made the difference for me is that you believed that I could do it. Thank you for encouraging me last night and telling me that my stroke was actually not as bad as I thought it was; it really helped me today. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!" Eva B.
"Coach Greg, your triathlon training class has been an AWESOME experience and I know I couldn't have learned as much if I had done it on my own. I appreciate your time, knowledge and advice over the past few months. I hope to get through my first tri in Naperville and use all you've taught me to continue to grow and feel more comfortable competing in the future." Pam R.
Back to top
Coach Mark:
"When I first encountered Coach Mark, I had only done one triathlon - a sprint. I still remember the first day of Mark's training program! I grabbed the Olympic triathlon training outline and said, "You think I can do a Half-Ironman?" Mark said, "You won't just get to the Half, you will do an Ironman one day!" Well, I jumped right from that sprint to a 70.3 at Steelhead to Ironman Wisconsin a couple of years ago with Mark's help. Mark's knowledge, passion and positive energy were just what I needed to keep me on course! His training program not only got me to the finish line but improved my overall performance in the swim, bike and run! Thanks, Mark!" LF
"Experienced, knowledged, and being highly motivated are three attributes that describe Mark Konicek as a fitness professional. He's well versed in triathlon training, racing, and problem solving if an injury occurs. I felt confident while training with Mark that I was given solid advice, and that he always had my best interest at heart. A trainer with a personality isn't always easy to find...never a dull moment with Mark, just hard work and fun!! You can't go wrong when Mark is on your team." LR
"My involvement in the multi-sport lifestyle comes directly from my association with Mark. I first met him at his early morning boot camp class at one the of the nationally recognized health clubs. I had no way of knowing at the time that this twelve week program was going to dramatically change my lifestyle. His seemingly boundless energy and enthusiasm was contagious. I found myself soon after committing to his triathlon training programs, which started with me asking "Do you think I can at least finish?" Well, eight years later I am still training actively. I finished my first triathlon in 2003, ran my first marathon at age fifty and completed my first Ironman last year at age fifty three. I have no thoughts of slowing any time soon as long as my body can handle the grind. For everyone saying I cannot do this, take a look at me - from an out of shape and aging couch potato to an Ironman. It would never have happened if I hadn't had the good fortune of meeting Mark." TL
"In 2004, Mark single-handedly started and trained the triathlon group in Schaumburg at Life Time Fitness. Over the years the group continued to grow in size and accomplishments, with everyone competing in at least one triathlon event and over 90% competing in either an Ironman or Half Ironman contest. It is because of Mark’s commitment to the sport, enthusiastic nature and sincere dedication to his athletes and the sport that many members of his first training class have gone on to become personal trainers and triathlon coaches themselves. You couldn’t ask for a greater compliment or endorsement. While an excellent athlete himself, Mark has a unique ability to bring training down to your individual level, constantly pushing and offering encouragement throughout the process. Your goals become his goals. It was through Mark’s training and encouragement that I was able to achieve many of my fitness goals. I have been proud to call Mark my coach, training partner and friend." Cliff O.
Back to top
Coach Sue:
"I have always considered myself to be an ok swimmer and once I started triathlons I realized I needed to become more efficient with my stroke. Coach Sue has exceeded my expectations on what I felt I could accomplish with a masters swim class. Her patience, knowledge and constructive critiques of my swim stroke have greatly improved my swimming. For that I am very appreciative and looking forward to improving other areas of my triathlon disciplines."
Tanya L.
"I began swimming with EXPERIENCETriathlon in October 2009. During my first season of triathlons I had been self-coached and knew that I needed some more support if I really wanted to do anything with this sport. I had previously swam in high school, and was swimming on my own occasionally at the gym. I figured that starting with swimming would be a good starting point. I nervously went to the first swim session and was greeted immediately by Sue. She was warm, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable. Sue recognized my strengths and weaknesses and gave me suggestions to correct them. In this short time have definitely gotten stronger and smoother since we began working together. I like getting constant feedback that I am improving and suggestions on how to take my swim to the next more efficient level. Sue is always helping all the swimmers maximize their performance. Her workouts are always exciting and always have a purpose. Most importantly, Sue is truly talented when it comes to motivating (it takes a lot to get a pool full of people in December and January), encouraging, and inspiring the athletes with whom she works. She makes you excited about your potential, no matter what level of triathlete you are. Sue has defiantly made me more interested in working on all areas of my triathlon. I would recommend Sue to anyone looking to reach new levels of performance and fitness." Kelly C.
"Coach Sue has been an amazing help to me with my swim technique...every time I swam in her Masters Class, she was able to pinpoint one particular area for me to work on, and with those minor changes and her encouragement, I was able to take my swim to a whole new level! Thank you, Sue!!" Sarah F.
"Coach Sue is an excellent swim coach! She has been very supportive of my efforts to improve my swimming, giving me carefully crafted workouts as well as a lot of instruction on improving my technique. I have seen definite improvement in my swimming efficiency since taking her swim class, and have felt a difference in my swim endurance. I look forward to continuing to work with her, and taking my swimming to the next level!" Drew R.
Back to top
Laurie:
"I have worked with Laurie as a coach and guide for healthful living for several years. She is a good listener and so is aware of the needs and wants of a 67 year old woman, even though this is not her primary focus. She makes cogent and viable suggestions, and I feel comfortable and secure that she has the education and training to give medically sound advice.
We have worked in three main areas. The first is nutrition coaching where she helps with correct food choices and also with correct nutritional supplement and vitamin choices. Two potential medical problems are osteopenia and hypertension. Laurie has helped me learn to choose foods and supplements to maintain bone density. She also works with me on educating myself about watching the salt and fat content of foods. Now I read the labels and prepare most food from scratch.
Nutrition coaching leads into the second area which is weight control. This has centered on controlling sugar intake and portion control. I am an ice cream addict trying to reform. I enjoy cooking and baking and Laurie helps with recipe suggestions and keeps me on track by checking my written record of what I eat.
The third area she recommends and insists upon is regular exercise. So I go to the gym, participate in some group classes, and do some weights and cardio at lest three or four times a week. We live near a park that offers a two mile circuit that I try to do at least four times a week.
I appreciate Laurie for her positive attitude that age and beginning condition do not preclude learning and living a healthier, happier, and hopefully longer life. If I have a question, she knows where to find the answer. She is a role model with her own eating and exercise program and the consistency that she maintains shows me that it can be done." Ellen S.
"When I first met Laurie, I was stuck in a vicious cycle of temporary weight loss followed by not-so-temporary weight gains. I had thought that as long as I was working out regularly, I could eat whatever I wanted. And yet, the only way I could seem to lose weight was to starve myself. This didn't keep the weight off long term, and had the extra side effect of robbing me of the energy I needed to have quality workouts. Laurie has taught me a great deal about eating the right kinds of foods, at the right times, to manage my weight while maintaining my energy level. With her help, I have reduced my body fat, increased my strength, and made it through many a long training session without bonking. Thanks, Laurie!" Drew R.
Back to top
