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Quarantine Quest

July 2, 2024 in /by

Embark on a morning of exploration, rejuvenation and community at the Q-Station Join us for a unique adventure on Sat 31 August 2024, that starts and finishes at the iconic Quarantine Station. Run the scenic trails around North Head, where history and nature converge, and finish at the picturesque Quarantine Beach. Dive into the stunning ocean for a refreshing swim and then recharge and relax in an authentic Finnish wood-fired sauna from Cedar and Salt. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the ocean as you restore your mind and body in the lovely heat, post-swim. Finish your experience with a well-deserved coffee and brekky from the scrumptious Wharf Cafe. Our BEXI ‘Quarantine Quest’ blends the excitement of a run/walk adventure with the tranquility of wellness activities, making it a must-do for all our BEXI members looking to enhance their physical, mental and emotional well-being. Routes Choose from four exhilarating walk/run options – 5k, 10k, 15k or 20k. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or an endurance run around North Head, there’s a route perfectly suited to your pace and preference. 5km:  ‘Quarantine Quirk Dash’ – 100m elevation (easy) This invigorating 5km run/walk adventure begins at the Q-station carpark. Discover the scenic beauty of North Head as you loop through its historic trails, soaking in panoramic views of Sydney’s iconic skyline and harbour. This route offers a perfect blend of easy terrain and 100m elevation, making it accessible for participants of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or simply looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll amidst breathtaking vistas, the Quarantine Quirk Dash promises a memorable experience. Lace up your shoes and join us for a morning of exploration and inspiration at one of Sydney’s most picturesque locations.   10km: ‘Headland Heights Hustle’ – 206m elevation (moderate) A thrilling 10km run/walk that commences at the Q-station carpark. Embark on a journey through the scenic trails of North Head, where every turn unveils breathtaking panoramic views of Sydney’s skyline and harbour. From the iconic “hole-in-the-wall” passage to the serene shores of Shelly Beach, and around the tranquil waters of Manly Cove to Collins Beach, this route offers a perfect balance of moderate challenge and exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or an adventurous soul seeking new horizons, the Headland Heights Hustle promises an unforgettable experience. 15km: ‘North Head Odyssey’ – elevation 221m (moderate to challenging) A captivating run/walk starting at the Q-station carpark. This adventurous route weaves through the diverse trails of North Head, offering sweeping panoramic views of Sydney’s iconic harbor and skyline. Traverse the historic “hole-in-the-wall” passage, then continue to the serene Shelly Beach, before heading to the stunning Queenscliff Beach. Your journey takes you along the picturesque Manly Corso to Fairlight Beach, then back through the tranquil waters of Manly Cove to Collins Beach. Conquer the 221m elevation gain as you return, enjoying each hill’s challenge and the stunning vistas that await. The North Head Odyssey is perfect for those seeking a blend of moderate to challenging terrain, with every step offering a new perspective of Sydney’s coastal beauty.    20km: ‘Coastal Cliff Conquest’ – elevation 257m (moderate to challenging) A challenging 20km run/walk adventure starting at the Q-station carpark. Begin your journey along the scenic trails of North Head, where panoramic views of Sydney’s harbour and skyline unfold with each step. Pass through the iconic “hole-in-the-wall” and continue to the tranquil shores of Shelly Beach. From there, venture onward to the golden sands of Queenscliff Beach, and then follow the vibrant Manly Corso to the picturesque Forty Baskets Beach. Experience the serenity of Manly Cove before heading to the secluded beauty of Collins Beach. Brace yourself for the 257m elevation gain that leads to rewarding vistas at every turn. The Coastal Cliff Conquest is designed for adventurers seeking a blend of endurance and exploration amidst Sydney’s coastal wonders. Logistics All routes will start/finish at Q-Station carpark, Scenic Drive, Manly All routes will commence at 6.30am (timings tbc) Ensure you have a printed copy of the map and instructions  Ensure you carry your own water and nutrition For distances over 10km – aim to consume 30-45gsm carbohydrates per hour Ensure you carry a compression bandage, first aid kit, whistle and iPhone Pack your swimmers and 2x towels – leave in car for swim/sauna after run/walk There is a short 10min walk down to Quarantine Beach from the carpark There are 2x group sessions for the sauna – 8am, 9am (timings tbc) Sauna is limited to 12 ladies per group (total 24 ladies) It is recommended to take a cold plunge in the ocean before entering sauna and every 15mins during session Sauna is wood-fired for authentic Scandinavian experience Enjoy coffee and brekky with friends before/during/after sauna/swim activities Final timings and logistics will be confirmed closer to the time Cost  Cost is $45 per person  Includes adventure run/walk and 60min sauna session (per session) Sauna limited to 12 ladies per group session (total 24 ladies) Spaces limited, so best book early to secure your spot!

Vines & Trails

April 24, 2024 in /by

Join us for a sip and stride on the Six Foot Track Introducing our BEXI “Vines & Trails: A Sip and Stride on the Six Foot Track” – where the scenic beauty of the Blue Mountains meets the exquisite taste of local wines. We’ll embark on a journey through lush forests and stunning vistas as we walk/run the iconic Six Foot Track on Sat 22 June 2024. On our return, we’ll indulge our palate with a curated wine tasting at the stunning Dryridge Estate, savoring the flavors of the region amidst nature’s embrace. It’s an unforgettable blend of adventure and indulgence, where every step is paired with a sip of sophistication. Join us for an experience that delights the senses and nourishes the soul. This exclusive event invites BEXI members to experience the perfect blend of outdoor exploration and refined taste, courtesy of Dryride Estate. Join us for a day of camaraderie, discovery and delightful indulgence (in true BEXI-style).  Routes Choose from four exhilarating options – 5k, 10k, 15k or 20k. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging run, there’s a route perfectly suited to your pace and preference. Traverse the scenic landscapes of the Blue Mountains at your own rhythm, with each kilometer offering new sights to behold and flavors to savour.  All options start and finish at Megalong Cemetery, Megalong Valley.  5km:  “Vista Vineyard Trail” – 77m elevation (easy) This gentle 5km route winds through picturesque vineyards and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Perfect for beginners and leisurely walkers, this route combines easy terrain with delightful scenery, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a relaxed yet rewarding experience. This is an in/out walk/run from Megalong Cemetery to Dryridge Estate.  Start 9am.   10km: “Forest Foothills Run” – 185m elevation (moderate) The 10k route takes you on a journey through lush forested trails and rolling foothills of the Six Foot Track. With moderate elevation changes and varied terrain, this route offers a satisfying challenge for intermediate runners and hikers. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature while enjoying occasional glimpses of distant mountain vistas. This is an in/out/loop run with 185m elevation. Kick off at Megalong Cemetery, follow Six Foot Track, turn around and make way to Dryridge Estate. Start 8.30am   15km: “Ridgeview Ramble” – elevation 360m (moderate to challenging) Embark on a scenic adventure along the 15km Ridgeview Ramble, where you’ll traverse rugged ridges and explore hidden valleys. This route combines moderate to challenging terrain with breathtaking views, rewarding participants with a sense of accomplishment as they conquer each hill and valley. Suitable for experienced hikers and runners seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience. As with the 10km, continue on the Six Foot Track until 6km and then turn around heading for Dryridge Estate. Start 8am.     20km: “Mountain Majesty Marathon” – elevation 563m (challenging) Brace yourself for the ultimate test of endurance on the 20km Mountain Majesty Marathon. This challenging route takes you on a journey through rugged mountain trails and steep ascents, offering unparalleled views of the majestic landscape below. With demanding terrain and significant elevation gain, this route is designed for seasoned athletes and adventurous spirits looking to push their limits and conquer the mountains. As with 10km option, continue on Six Foot Track, cross Coxs River, turn around at 8.5km heading for Dryridge Estate. Start 8am.      Logistics All above routes will meet at Megalong Cemetery, cnr Megalong Rd and Aspinall Rd, Megalong Valley, NSW 2785 Drive is about 2.5hrs from Northern Beaches All routes will have a Run Leader to support and guide you along the way  All routes will meet at Dryridge Estate for Cellar Door tasting and Ploughman’s lunch/cheese board at 12pm Ensure you have a printed copy of the map and instructions  Ensure you carry your own water and nutrition For distances over 5km – aim to consumer 30-45gsm carbohydrates per hour Ensure you carry a compression bandage, first aid kit, whistle and iPhone There is a 2km return back to car after wine tasting – save some energy! Ensure you have a non-drinking driver to drive you home  Our event will conclude at 2pm  Gear Checklist Running gear – BEXI singlet/tee, shorts/leggings, socks, trail shoes, crop-top, BEXI visor Watch/GPS – make sure it is charged Hydration vest (10km+) – 1/1.5ltr bladder containing water and soft flasks containing carb drink (Tailwind) Waist belt (if you don’t have a hydration vest) – to hold your nutrition and water bottle Nutrition – gels, bars, bloks, lollies, sandwich, etc. Snakebite bandage Headtorch (for those starting early) Whistle Mobile phone with CAPRA app installed Change of clothes at finish Tissues, body-glide (anti-chafe) Sun cream Bags of fun!     

Celebrating 2021

December 1, 2021 in /by

We’ve made it to the end of 2021 – now it’s time to celebrate!     Join us on Sat 04 Dec 2021, as we come together in true BEXI style and celebrate all the successes we’ve had over a very turbulent past year. We’ll meet at Manly Dam – Picnic Area 3, Table 22 – for a choice of a road or trail run (weather dependent). Nudge your BEXI buddies, agree a route and come join us. At the end of our run we’ll enjoy a yummy brekkie and toast our BEXI 2021 Achievers.  Timings for the morning: 6.00am – Long Run 6.30am – Medium Run 7.00am – Short Run 8.30am – Brekkie & Awards (Table 22) 10.00am – Finish Bring your swimmers and towels for an optional post-run dip in the dam.  Road options: 17km Long Road 15km Long Road 13km Medium Road     10km Medium Road 7km Short Road 5km Short Road   Trail options: 15km Long Trail 12km Long Trail 9km Medium Trail 7km Medium Trail 5km Short Trail Meeting Point – Picnic Area 3, Table 22 The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate!  

Canberra Marathon Festival – 10 April 2022

November 16, 2021 in /by

Join us for a weekend of fun, adventure and fulfilling goals The 2022 Canberra Times Marathon Festival is on! Offering something for everyone – from 2km kids run, to half-marathon or marathon-distance for the experienced runners. Set yourself a goal and come join us as we explore the beautiful surrounds of our capital city – including Lake Burley Griffin, the Parliamentary Triangle, the War Memorial and so much more.   About our programs We understand the pressures of life and trying to fit everything in (family, work, sport, friends, etc.) – so our programs are purposely built to accommodate your busy schedules. Each  program focuses on building fitness, speed and endurance. We also include a structured strength training element to correct muscle imbalances, increase mobility, stabilize joints and more.  Program Duration Starts Marathon program 16 weeks Mon 20 Dec 2021 Half-marathon program 12 weeks Tue 18 Jan 2022 10km program 08 weeks Tue 15 Feb 2022 If you’re thinking of stepping up to the marathon distance – read our ‘Ready for a Marathon’ blog.  What is included? Structured training program 3 x weekly group training sessions  2 x weekly strength training sessions Online training programs via Training Peaks Nutrition and recovery guidance Mental skills and race strategies Event weekend logistics Membership of a supportive, like-minded Community What is excluded? Race entry fee  (Early Bird expires on 2 Dec 2021) BEXI technical running singlet/t-shirt  Travel, accommodation & meals (we are holding accommodation in Kingston) Your Investment Gold Membership – $50 p/wk The weekend is more than just running – there is something for the entire family! Escape for hours with the kids at Questacon, the National Zoo & Aquarium, the Australian War Memorial, and so much more!  Bring your hubbies & kids and let them have fun at one of Australia’s premier mountain biking trails – Stromlo Forest Park. Purchase a shuttle bus pass in advance so that they can spend hours of fun on the downhills. Highly recommend!  The weekend will also include the burgeoning coffee scene, eclectic cafes and trendy restaurants/bars.           

Outsmarting our Imposter

October 12, 2021 in /by

Do you doubt your abilities and feel like a fraud? Due to popular demand, we are offering our ‘Outsmarting our Imposter’ workshop as a stand-alone option.  This 2-part workshop is aimed at women who experience the feeling of wearing a mask and playing a role that we don’t feel at home in. It is present in those moments when we feel like we are a fraud, and ‘small’ in the company of others. Surprisingly (or not), this affects high-achieving people, who find it difficult to accept their accomplishments.  What is covered in this workshop? We explore: what the Imposter Syndrome is how it impacts us – in our life, career and sport its relationship to the fear of failure and perfectionism why fear isn’t a bad thing, and how to outsmart it so it doesn’t hold you back.  Meet our Coach – Jen Brown We are thrilled to be working with Jen Brown – Performance & Mindset Expert who is one of Australia’s leading experts on the Imposter Complex. A former Corporate Lawyer and Endurance Sports Coach, Jen works with everyday people with sports and corporate goals. She quickly realised that what often held people back from achieving their goals wasn’t physical; it was their mindset. So she became obsessed with understanding fear, courage, self-doubt and the Imposter Complex.  Many of us already know Jen as the founder of Sparta Chicks – an online community for female endurance athletes and outdoor adventurers. How is the workshop structured? This workshop will consist of 2 x 45min zoom sessions, delivered fortnightly on Thursday mornings (6.15am-7am). The first session will introduce the concept and the second session will build deeper. The sessions are interactive and provide you with practical strategies to implement straight away.  The workshop will enable engagement, connection and conversation between participants.  What are the dates? Thurs 18 Nov – 6.15am-7.00am Thurs 2 Dec – 6.15am-7.00am Who is this workshop for? For women who: struggle with fear and self-doubt get stuck in procrastination or perfectionism have ambitious goals or are goal-orientated by nature want to show up authentically and enjoy life without fear and shame. What is your investment? BEXI members – $50 for 2 x sessions Non-Members – $60 for 2 x sessions → This workshop will help you acknowledge your superpowers and help you stand out in a crowd.  

Jump-into-Summer Challenge 2021

October 12, 2021 in /by

Six weeks of fresh-air, fitness and full-on-fun!    Freedom Day has arrived! Time to race outdoors, connect with friends and embrace our Jump-into-Summer ’21 Challenge. Starting Mon 25 Oct, our six week challenge includes fab workouts, wildcard surprises, super-sessions, prizes and full-on-fun!   How does it work? Challenge starts on Mon 25 Oct and continues through to Sat 04 Dec 2021  We will focus on four goals: Build Fitness – aim to improve your current fitness level (based on benchmark test) Build Speed – achieve a PB in your chosen run distance (3km or 5km) Build Strength – improve your strength (based on benchmark circuit) Build Consistency – commit to attending 3 x weekly sessions   Surprise ‘Challenge-a-Friend’ and ‘Wildcard’ challenges will be issued each week (can’t say any more!)  Points will be allocated for attending training sessions, completing challenges and achieving goals  Prizes will be awarded for most improved, most attended sessions, special Coaches award… and Overall 2021 Winner  Prize-giving concludes at our end-of-challenge event on Sat 04 Dec, 6-10am – with a brekkie BBQ  Sneak-Peak of Timetable   This challenge is for you if you’re looking to… embrace your new-found freedom enjoy full-on-fun with your BEXI friends focus on a 6-week challenge  feel energised for summer challenge last year’s winner (Kelly Wong) for the Overall 2021 Winner title! ⭐ What is the cost? $45 p/wk (across 6-weeks) Includes prizes Guaranteed results (based on tests) Lots of full-on-fun!  

Learn-to-Trail-Run Workshop – Sat 20 Nov 2021

October 11, 2021 in /by

Experience the thrill of trail running to explore yourself and your backyard! We’ve added a new date as our previous workshop sold out!  Next one is Sat 20 Nov 2021, 7-9am.  Our Learn-to-Trail Run workshop is aimed at runners who are looking to build running confidence on the trails. We will give you the tools and knowledge to run our stunning local trails with confidence, enjoyment and exhilaration!  What is covered in our workshop? We will teach you: the basics of trail running and how it differs from road running specific techniques for running on variable terrain skills for mastering single track techniques for tackling stairs, climbing and descending dealing with obstacles essential safety tips for hitting the trails In addition, we will offer guidance on correct footwear, equipment, as well as nutrition and hydration. We will run for a total of 6-8km on the day.  How is the workshop structured? Our 2hr workshop will take place on Sat 20 Nov at Clontarf Reserve, starting 7am. We will run on the Spit to Manly track which will include single track, stairs and wider trail pathways. During the workshop we will discuss trail running techniques, including climbing and descending. We will be stopping during the running to discuss these – so it’s not a ‘workout’ but rather learning of techniques. We will return by 8.30am, where we will have 30 minutes to discuss equipment, logistics and fuelling. The workshop will conclude by 9am.  Meet our Coach – Tamara Madden Tamara Madden is an experienced trail runner and endurance athlete. Having taken up the sport 10yrs ago, she has run numerous marathons and ultra-marathons – including the flagship Ultra-Trail Australia (50km x2; 100km x2). Tamara’s proudest trail running moment was completing the 100km in just under 14½ hrs – placing her in the top 30 females and 9th in her age group.  Tamara is also  a very successful Qualified Nutritionist specialising in sports nutrition – Mad on Nutrition. Who is this workshop for? For women looking to: attempt trail running learn the mechanics of trail running build confidence on the trails embrace the delights of nature What is your investment? BEXI members – $45 Non-Members – $55 Our previous workshop sold out – book now to avoid disappointment. We are limited to 10 x members per workshop.  → Experience the thrill of trail running to explore your backyard!   

Passion. Purpose. Progress.

September 8, 2021 in /by

Announcing our super-exciting BEXI Workshop Series to support these challenging times! Over the past few months, we have been feeling deflated, struggled with motivation, and missing our mojo. Holidays have been cancelled, events postponed, and social-distancing imposed. With so much change happening around us, it is really challenging to feel motivated and energised. Added to all this uncertainty, we also feel that we aren’t good/smart/qualified ‘enough’ to achieve certain things in life. Or we feel ‘small’ in the company of others, and that someone is going to find out we have no idea what you’re doing?  This got us talking to a highly regarded mindset expert, which resulted in our latest BEXI workshop series – Passion. Purpose. Progress. We are thrilled to be working with Jen Brown – Performance & Mindset Expert who helps people build endurance and create results that last. Jen is also one of Australia’s leading experts on the Imposter Complex. Many of us already know Jen as the founder of Sparta Chicks – an online community for female endurance athletes and outdoor adventurers. (We love Sparta Chicks!)   What is covered in this workshop series? This exciting workshop series covers two important topics that are highly relevant to our lives right now: 1. Goal setting during uncertain times We explore: our values and what is important to us what’s inside our control and how to focus on it why we started running/training in the first place and why we stick with it (even when the times get tough), and what alternative challenges we could set to stay motivated, focused, and energised. 2. Outsmarting our Imposter We explore: what the Imposter Syndrome is how it impacts us – in our life, career and sport its relationship to the fear of failure and perfectionism why fear isn’t a bad thing, and how to outsmart it so it doesn’t hold you back.  Meet Jen Brown (and hear her excitement!)     How is this workshop series structured? Each topic will consist of 2 x 45min zoom sessions, delivered fortnightly on Thursday mornings (6.15am-7am). The first session will introduce the concept and the second session will build deeper. The sessions are interactive and provide you with practical strategies to implement straight away.  The workshop series will be limited to a maximum of 25 participants – which will enable engagement, connection and conversation between participants.  What are the dates? Goal setting during uncertain times – Thurs 7 Oct and Thurs 21 Oct Outsmarting our Imposter – Thurs 18 Nov and Thurs 2 Dec Who is this workshop series for? For women who: are struggling to stay motivated need new goals to stay focused struggle with fear and self-doubt get stuck in procrastination or perfectionism have ambitious goals or are goal-orientated by nature want to show up authentically and enjoy life without fear and shame. What is your investment? BEXI members – $85 for 4 x sessions Non-Members – $100 for 4 x sessions → This workshop series will give you the clarity on your ‘why’ and support you with a sense of passion, purpose, and progress – ready to embrace 2022.  

BEXI-lani Challenge

July 30, 2021 in /by

Join us as we explore one of our favourite trails on the Beaches We are super-excited to share our plans for our inaugural ‘BEXI-lani Challenge‘, taking place on Sat 27 April 2024.  Our amazing Run Leaders, Stef Johnson and Dave Monaghan, have planned an awesome morning exploring their favourite trail along the Warrimoo Track. You’ll be treated to stunning views, waterside tracks, bushland, rainforest, hill inclines and creek crossings – including some hidden stairways and waterways.  Who can join? Our ‘BEXI-lani Challenge’ is open to all our amazing BEXI members. Choose to run, Jeff, or walk distances ranging from 8km, 15km, or 20km. Our goal is to take in the the amazing beauty of the Warrimoo trail, connect with our BEXI friends, get fit(er) and have tons of giggles and laughs along the way!   What are the courses? All courses meet at the start of the Warrimoo Track – cnr Warrimoo Ave and Timbarra Rd, St Ives Chase: 8km:  ‘I-wanna-climb-me-some-hills’ – Warrimoo to Sphinx Park and Bobbin Head Junction  Start 7.30am.  This is an in/out run with 400m elevation. Need to take compulsory ‘Walk-like-an-Egyptian’ photo in front of Sphinx. Take care of crossing water ways.  (Note: you can can turnaround at any stage to shorten the course.)   15km:  ‘I’ve-gotta-climb-me-some-hills’ – ‘Classic’ Warrimoo Loop Start 7am.  This is an in/out/loop run with 450m elevation. Need to take compulsory ‘Walk-like-an-Egyptian’ photo in front of Sphinx. Take care of crossing water ways.   20km:  All-of-the-above-with-a-bit-extra Start 6.30am.  As with the 15km but with a bit of extra spice thrown in.    What are the logistics? All above courses will meet at the start of the Warrimoo Track – cnr Warrimoo Ave and Timbarra Rd, St Ives Chase (see map below) All courses will have a Run Leader to support and guide you along the way  Post-run brekkie will take place at The Tasting Deck, Forest Way Fresh, cnr Mona Vale Rd and Forest Way Ensure you have a printed copy of the map and instructions (to follow) For distances over 8km – aim to consumer 30-45gsm carbohydrates per hour Once finished your run, please complete cool-down and change into dry/warm clothes Our event will conclude at 11am Running Checklist Running gear – BEXI singlet/tee, shorts/leggings, socks, trail shoes, crop-top, BEXI visor Watch/GPS – make sure it is charged Hydration vest (10km+) – 1/1.5ltr bladder containing water and soft flasks containing carb drink (Tailwind) Waist belt (if you don’t have a hydration vest) – to hold your nutrition and water bottle Nutrition – gels, bars, bloks, lollies, sandwich, etc. Snakebite bandage Headtorch (for those starting early) Whistle Mobile phone with CAPRA app installed Change of clothes at finish Tissues, body-glide (anti-chafe) Sun cream Bags of fun!     

The BEXI Journey

June 9, 2021 in /by

  We understand that it can be very overwhelming when you want to get fit, but are presented with loads of options. To simplify our programs, we have compiled the following visual image that captures our BEXI journey. Starting at Level 1 and progressing to Level 5 – our programs are aimed at building your running fitness, technique, confidence and self-esteem. There is never any judgement or ego – just fun, fitness and friendship. We’d love you to come join us!