Building a Contagious Community of Collaborative Coaches: Our IRONMAN U Journey

When Predictive Fitness’ education arm took over the IRONMAN Triathlon Group’s coaching certification in 2024, I’ll admit, I had a bit of a pinch-me moment. Will Usher and I were asked to be part its relaunch. Being part of the revamp of an already brilliant programme? Yes, please! And, spoiler alert: it’s been an absolute whirlwind of brilliance, caffeine-fuelled brainstorming sessions, and a whole lot of "wow, we’re really doing this."

A World-Class Certification, Reimagined (and Then Some)

Let’s get one thing straight: the IRONMAN U certification has always been top-notch. But when you mix in a dash of modernisation, sprinkle on some innovation, and bring together a team of ridiculously talented Master Coaches (humble brag and name drops here: Mark Allen, Tm O’Donnell, Rinny Carfrae Michellie Jones and Craig “Crowie’ Alexander), magic happens. The team worked tirelessly to ensure this course wasn’t just good; it’s was the gold standard. We’re talking cutting-edge endurance coaching science, practical tools, and a curriculum so good, it’ll make you want to start all over again just to learn it twice.

Being appointed subject matter experts was the cherry on top of an already delicious coaching cake. It’s not just about the opportunity (although, let’s be honest, it’s pretty cool); it’s about shaping the future of triathlon coaching. We’re paving the way for coaches to feel empowered, inspired, and ready to elevate coaching practice to achieve coaching excellence.

Texas: Where the Magic (and Tex-Mex) Happens

Last year, we jetted off to Texas for what I wish to now call it the "coaching summit of dreams." This is where the ideas were born, debated, refined, and sometimes lovingly scrapped in favour of something even better. And let’s not forget the Tex-Mex… Fuel for the body, fuel for the mind, right? Can’t wait to head back there this year for round 2.

This year’s pièce de résistance? The launch of the IMU L2 course. Think of it as the masterclass for coaches who’ve already nailed the basics and are ready to dive deeper into their emotional intelligence and how they operate as a coach. It will be challenging, rewarding, and exactly what the sport needs. It feels a little bit like watching your kid win their first swim gala – equal parts pride and “Is this really happening?”

Why This Means So Much for Precision Coaching

Here’s the thing: being part of IRONMAN U isn’t just a professional milestone for us. It’s a reflection of everything we stand for at Precision Coaching. Collaboration over competition? Check. Sharing knowledge? Always. Building a community of coaches who lift each other up? You bet.

For our athletes, this means you’re getting access to a coaching team that’s at the forefront of endurance training. It’s not just about crossing the finish line; it’s about crossing it stronger, smarter, and with a giant grin on your face. For fellow coaches, consider this your formal invitation to join us in rewriting the rulebook on what it means to be a coach. Let’s share ideas, learn from each other, and, dare I say, have a bit of fun along the way.

A Vision for a Collaborative Future

We’re not here to compete or badmouth – we’re here to collaborate and innovate. Imagine a world where triathlon coaches cheer each other on, share best practices, and work together to elevate the sport. That’s the world we’re building, and trust me, it’s a lot more fun when we do it together.

Join the Movement (Seriously, What Are You Waiting For?)

Whether you’re an athlete looking for a coach who’ll have your back (and maybe throw in a bit of cheeky banter) or a coach ready to collaborate and grow, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at Precision Coaching, and let’s make some magic happen.

The future of triathlon is bright. And together, we’ll make it shine even brighter.

Let’s do this!

Raya Usher, Head of Development, Precision Coaching