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Highway-19 Virtual Challenge

March 25, 2020 in /by

We’re super-excited to launch our newest virtual challenge: HIGHWAY-19 In response to COVID-19, we decided to create a virtual challenge that would keep our community fit, motivated, happy and healthy during this uncertain period.   About HIGHWAY-19 Starting Weds 1 April 2020, join us as we run, walk, cycle, swim, hop, skip and jump our way around Australia*. Our goal is to circumnavigate the full distance around Australia on HIGHWAY-19 – a whopping distance of 14,500km. (*Following government guidelines in response to COVID-19.) Each week we will set a target goal – i.e. travel from Sydney to Brisbane (920km). We will all jump in with the aim of completing the target distance – doing whatever activity we prefer. At the end of each week, we will submit our weekly mileage to our ‘Virtual Challenge Navigator‘, who will plot the distance covered on our virtual map. Our challenge is to circumnavigate Australia within 2-months – April and May 2020. Some weeks will be shorter and easier, other weeks will be longer and harder.  But one thing is for sure – our BEXI community loves a challenge!   Bonus Kilometers Bonus km’s will be awarded as follows: Completing virtual home workouts – 30mins = 5km | 45mins = 10km | 60mins = 15km Swim distances will be multiplied by 10 (i.e. 1km swim = 10km) Junior distances will be multiplied on a tiered scaling – 5-10yrs x 4 | 11-15yrs x 3 | 16-20yrs x 2 Distances will be doubled for those who ‘lead’ a session (i.e. mark a trail run; plan a solo run session; plan an indoor training session; etc.) Wildcard challenges will randomly be issued throughout the challenge – these will attract vast bonus km’s Spot prizes will be allocated along the way   What is the cost? FREE! GRATIS! GRATUITE! We want to support our BEXI community, their family and friends. What happens at the finish? Should we achieve our goal, all participants will receive a finishers medal or apparel*. (This will incur a small charge.) How to register? Round up your BEXI buddies, family, friends and join our HIGHWAY-19 Virtual Challenge Join our HIGHWAY-19 Virtual Challenge private Facebook group – this will keep you updated of our weekly goals Join our HIGHWAY-19 Virtual Challenge on STRAVA – this will log your total weekly distances Register your details online – so we can communicate with you Small acts, when multiplied by many people, can transform the world. >> Week 1: Sydney to Brisbane (917km)

We’re supporting you!

March 20, 2020 in /by

We have all been affected by the highly contagious COVID-19 virus. Our races have been cancelled and we are feeling disappointed, lost and rather numb by the unknown situation.   Without a doubt, exercise is the one key factor that will get us through this crazy time. It will help with stress, anxiety, mental health, physical health… including boosting our immune system. To support our BEXI community, we have created a few 8-week training programs which gives you the opportunity to train on your own;  or with us in the great outdoors (applying social distancing, of course!).  These programs include 3 x ‘non-event’ events during the course of the training – with the grand finale at the end. We’ve planned some super-fun ‘non-event’ events that include road running and trail running.  They will be challenging, but more importantly – these events will give us a sense of purpose, a goal 8-weeks to have fun training with your buddies (or on your own). If you’re looking for a FREE training program to keep you focused over the next 8-weeks, choose from the following: BEXI50 – Trail running program, building up to the 50km distance on the trails (replacing UTA50) BEXI22 – Trail running program, building up to the 22km distance on the trails (replacing UTA22) BEXI42 – Road running program, building up to the marathon distance on the roads (replacing Canberra/London Marathon) BEXI21 – Road running program, building up to the half-marathon distance on the roads (replacing SMH 21km) BEXI21-Relay – Road running program, building up to the half-marathon relay distance on the roads (replacing SMH 21km relay)   Our aim is to keep you training – so that you have a purpose, are happy and stay healthy (physically and mentally).  Stay safe. Look out for each other. Community is everything. 

We’re going to make it happen!

March 17, 2020 in /by

We are experiencing so much confusion and uncertainty in our lives right now. Events are being cancelled and everything that has given us a focus and purpose is gone. While we wait for direction and guidance from the medical authorities, we need to come together and support each other as a community. Offering emotional support, friendships, wisdom, motivation and accountability. As a sporty community, we understand the need for a structured training program that gives you a focus each day. Where you can wake up in the morning, know exactly what you have to do, get it done and feel fab afterwards.    Well… we are going to make this happen! To support our BEXI community, we are collaborating with our fab partners at North Shore Running Fitness to create some fun and exhilarating programs and events that will support our community across road running, trail running and triathlon. Details are evolving – stay tuned for more exciting news coming VERY soon! #makeithappen Read how our BEXI community came together to support a couple of our members who had their Tokyo Marathon cancelled. Truly uplifting!

Coastal Classic – 5 Sept 2020

March 10, 2020 in /by

Listed as one of Australia’s ‘must-do’ trail runs – the Coastal Classic is a 30km trail run through the Royal National Park (south of Sydney).  As the world’s second oldest national park (after Yellowstone in USA), the Coastal Classic is a trail run along the coast track from Otford to Bundeena. Offering 30km of trails, beaches, sand and rainforest – this race has a bit of everything, with amazing views to top it off! The event takes place on Sat 5th September 2020 – with entries opening on Weds 8th April 2020 (9am). The event sells out shortly after opening, so be sure to be online when registration opens. About our  program Our 14-week training program kicks off on 6 June 2020. It is aimed at supporting athletes who are looking to attempt a trail running challenge (30km). Each week we focus on three targeted group training runs – strength, speed and endurance. In addition, the program also includes a strength & mobility session that focuses on functional conditioning to increase muscle strength, mobility, power and endurance. Our Saturday endurance runs take place on various local trail courses – starting at 30mins and building to 180mins.   By far the most valuable part of our program is training with a group of like-minded runners, who are committed, motivated and will push you to scale greater heights.   Training starts on Sat 6 June 2020 and is open 12 x participants. * Program subject to change What are the pre-requisites? Runners who are consistently running 5-10km Runners looking to attempt their first trail run or already participate in some trail running Runners who are in good health and injury-free What Gear do I need? Having the right gear to take on a remote trail run is very important in order to ensure you can enjoy your run, stay safe and get the most out of training.  The most important pieces of kit you need to get started are your trail shoes and a good hydration pack.  Our coaches will guide you in terms of which gear your need and where to purchase it. What is included in the program? 14-week online training program 4-weekly group coached training sessions (see above) Race nutrition and recovery – (in collaboration with Mad on Nutrition) Mental skills and strategies Race strategy, tactics and guidance Analysis and feedback on training data Race day logistics Motivational support Access to private online forum Membership of a supportive, like-minded Community FREE BEXI Buff What is excluded? Race entry fee Transportation to/from event About our Coaches Our qualified coaches bring a vast level of experience in the sport of endurance running, trail running and strength & conditioning. Between them, they have completed ultra-trail marathons, ultra-marathons, marathons, triathlons, adventure races and much more. Your Investment $60 p/week across 14-weeks – (6 June 2020 – 5 Sept 2020) Unlimited weekly group training sessions (see above) Program open to 14 x participants* (*Program subject to numbers)

Our BEXI community at its BEST!

March 3, 2020 in /by

I was reminded recently of the importance and power of a community.   A couple of our BEXI members were due to run the Tokyo Marathon on Sunday 1 March 2020. For the past 16-weeks they had trained meticulously – through the intense summer heat and the devastating bushfires, which had an impact on the air quality. They remained focused and forged ahead with their training.   Sadly, this was not meant to be. The coronavirus took hold of Asia, becoming a mass epidemic. Two weeks out from their ‘World Major’ Tokyo Marathon, the mass-race event was cancelled. They were devastated!   All that hard work – the physical training, mental training, planning, saving, preparing, etc. All gone!   They toyed around with finding a ‘replacement’ marathon to fill the gap – but nothing quite matched Tokyo. Instead, one of the girls came up with an idea to run 26.2km (vs 26.2miles, which is the marathon distance), on Sunday 1 March 2020 – the day that the Tokyo Marathon was due to be hosted.   She planned three loops of 8.7km each and invited her BEXI friends to join her in her quest. Not knowing who could make it (sadly, her other Tokyo Marathon buddy is based in Byron Bay) – she showed up and was literally flawed by the support.   She had an awesome group of BEXI runners join her for each loop of her run. Her sister traveled from across Sydney to support her middle loop. The last loop boosted the biggest support and resulted in her running through a finish chute lined with Tokyo flags, a cheer squad of BEXI buddies, a winner’s tape for her to cross… and her very own personalised race medal – “Winner Tokyo Virtual Marathon 2020, Ros Meyer”.   Her buddies even had a printed a photo of her Tokyo Marathon buddy stuck in Byron Bay.   This filled me with so much pride and happiness.  Our BEXI community at it’s best!   Roslyn and Peita – ‘As you let go of adventures not meant for you… you will be brought new ones aligned to your magic.’  

SMH Half-Marathon – Sun 17 May 2020

February 12, 2020 in /by

Join us for a beautiful Sunday morning run as we take part in one of Australia’s largest running events – the SMH Half Marathon on Sun 17 May 2020. Bring a friend and take in the sights of Sydney – incl. Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens and much more. The event is inclusive for everyone! Bring your buddy and enter the relay distance – 11km for 1st runner and 10km for 2nd runner. By inviting a friend to train with you, not only will you have someone to motivate you – you’ll also have someone to push you harder, hold you accountable and… importantly, have a laugh throughout your 12-week journey. About our Program Our 12-week training program starts on Sat 29 Feb 2020 and focuses on supporting those who are training for the relay or the half-marathon events.  We train together as a team – as this offers greater team camaraderie and higher levels of motivation. Our comprehensive training program is structured around face-to-face coached sessions – ensuring you are supported every step of the way and progress injury free. Run training consists of 3 x weekly group training sessions, which take place on the Northern Beaches. Our long runs rotate among various locations – which keeps things fresh and interesting. * BONUS! When you sign up for our SMH Half-Marathon program, you are invited to join our Strength-FIT training for the duration of the training program. Who is this program for? You want to experience the atmosphere and take part in the relay You want to try a half-marathon for the first time You want to improve your previous half-marathon You want to train with friends and have fun getting fit What is included? 12-week online training program (with Training Peaks) 35-plus x coached sessions Access to weekly Strength-FIT training* Mental skills and strategies Race nutrition and recovery Motivational support Access to private online forum Membership of a supportive, like-minded Community Glass of bubbles at the finish! What is excluded? Race entry fee BEXI technical race singlet Program Prerequisites We are committed to supporting and encouraging all who participate in our programs, whilst keeping the health and safety of our members a priority. Please view our program prerequisites for a guideline of our baseline requirements, or speak to Debbie Solms about your journey. About our Coaches Our qualified coaches bring a vast level of experience in the sport of endurance running and strength & conditioning. Between them, they have completed ultra-marathons, marathons, half-marathons, trail marathons and much more. Your Investment Options Gold Membership – $55/week across 12-weeks (29 Feb to 17 May 2020) Access to all the above coached sessions Program based on 12 x participants (subject to numbers)    

Tri the Gong – Sun 19 April 2020

February 10, 2020 in /by

The perfect event for those looking to attempt their first triathlon. The Wollongong Triathlon offers races for all ages and abilities — and it is only a 2hr-drive from Sydney (perfect for a day trip). Very much a festival of fun and fitness  – this event encourages everyone to have a go (incl. spouse and kids). Take part in the excitement, exhilaration and sense of accomplishment that comes with participating in the beautiful sport of triathlon. It is so much fun! Choose from the Sprint & Standard distances; and get the kids to join the Miniman Aquathon, Try-a-Tri or Super-Sprint. There is something for everyone!  About our Program Our 7-week program kicks off on Sat 29 Feb 2020 and focuses on training for the Sprint & Standard-distance events: Sprint – 750m swim | 20km bike | 5km run – for those who are new to triathlon, or who like the cheeky, short ‘n’ sharp distance Standard – 1.5km swim | 40km bike | 10km run – for those who have already done a Sprint and would like to progress to the next level We train together as a team – as this offers greater team camaraderie (our BEXI strength) and higher levels of motivation. Our comprehensive training program is structured around face-to-face coached sessions – ensuring you are supported every step of the way and progress injury free. Who is this program for? You want an exciting new challenge You want to challenge yourself to a longer distance You want to get stronger, faster and more confident You want to train with an awesome supportive team What is included? 7-week online training program (using Training Peaks) 30-plus x coached sessions Simulation training session Mental skills and strategies Race nutrition and recovery Motivational support Access to private online forum Membership of a supportive, like-minded Community The above program is provisional and subject to change. What is excluded? Sunday ocean swim training – we encourage you to join our swim partners, Shelly Swim Club, who will support your open water swimming Race entry fee BEXI Tri-Suit (optional) – orders must be placed by Fri 6 March 2020 Program Prerequisites We are committed to supporting and encouraging all who participate in our programs, whilst keeping the health and safety of our members a priority. Please view our program prerequisites for a guideline of our baseline requirements, or speak to Debbie Solms about your journey. About our Coaches Our coaches are qualified across the sport of triathlon – swim, bike and run. Each coach has substantial experience in competing in triathlons (from Sprint to Ironman distances) – as well as participating at the ITU Age-Group World Championships. Your Investment Platinum Membership – $60p/week across 7-weeks (29 Feb to 19 Apr 2020) Access to all the above coached sessions Program based on 12 x participants (subject to numbers)  

What’s the fuss about Trail Running?

January 22, 2020 in /by

There’s been a massive surge in the sport of trail running. Before moving to Australia (in 2011), the only trail running I was aware of was fell running in the UK. And that was for crazy people!   Fast forward 9yrs and the interest in trail running is somewhat off the scale. Suddenly there are trail running events popping up all over the place – locally and internationally. In fact, many of these events have become prestigious ‘sell-out’ events – e.g. Ultra-Trail Australia (UTA).   So, what’s the fuss?   Top trail runner, Mark Green (The Body Mechanic) lists the following four reasons why runners are switching to trail running: Lack of motivation – runners like to be constantly stimulated. A change of scenery will renew your motivation and enthusiasm. Struggling with injuries – most road running injuries is a result of constant repetition. Trail running breaks up this repetition – your strides are never the same (long strides, short strides, wide strides, high strides), which means you are loading your muscles differently. Experience stunning locations – trails take you off the beaten track, which means you often get to experience stunning beauty in secluded locations. This also offers great opportunity to travel the globe and experience spectacular environments. Meet a friendly community – trail running attracts a community of runners who love being surrounded by nature and who prefer to run in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. They are more inspired to support their trail running buddies than achieve a race PB. I’d even include an additional benefit that ranks as #1 for me: Nature affects your well-being – running in nature helps heal your mind. It helps reduce stress, depression, anxiety – making you feel more calm and balanced emotionally.   I’m fast realising that trail running is not just a growing fad – it’s becoming a super-important activity that supports our overall well-being. As the demand increases, we have developed a few targeted trail running programs – for newbie-trail runners and for those training for a specific event. We’d love to invite you to join our BEXI team.   Yours in community, ~ Debbie Learn-to-Trail Run:  starts Sat 15 Feb 2020 – teach you all the skills and technique to develop confidence on the trails UTA Training Program:  starts Sat 1 Feb 2020 – 16-week program targeting UTA11, 22 & 50 Jabulani Training Program: starts Sat 1 Feb 2020 – 10-week program targeting Jabulani 12, 22 & 45   Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt! – John Muir  

The Pool or the Ocean?

January 15, 2020 in /by

When was the last time you did something for the first time? The start of a new year is often a time set new goals.  One of the most common goals is to ‘learn something new’.  We love the positiveness of this goal. It is not about quitting something (removing from our lives) – instead, it’s about adding a sense of value to our lives. Why do we  encourage you to learn something new – here’s our top 5 reasons: It’s fun! It offers you a sense of accomplishment and pride It adds more time in your day – you value time more and use it better It enables you to meet new people and form friendships It builds your self-esteem and confidence Lastly & importantly (which really makes it 6 reasons) – it makes you HAPPY! A core need for psychological well-being.   If you’re looking for a positive, self-growth goal – we’d love to invite you to join one of our newest Learn-to-Programs. These flagship programs are what we are all about – passion in sharing our skills, and enabling others to grow and flourish. There’s no greater investment. In signing off – we’d like to leave you with a beautiful quote from the amazing Christopher Reeve: “Either you decide to stay in the shallow end of the pool, or you go out in the ocean.”    Yours in community, ~ Debbie & Team BEXI   Learn-to-Cycle:  starts Sat 1 Feb, 2-3.30pm Learn-to-Run:  starts Sat 8 Feb, 8-9am Learn-to-Ocean Swim:  starts Sun 9 Feb, 8-9am Learn-to-Trail Run:  starts Sat 15 Feb, 10-11am (new dates/time!)  

Be Gutsy in 2020

January 6, 2020 in /by

Each year we like to set an intention which helps us keep focused and directed towards our goals. It also helps create clarity, when a seed is planted. In 2020 our intention is… Be Gutsy! It’s stepping out of our comfort zones to reach our goals It’s getting comfortable with being uncomfortable It’s exploring new opportunities and embracing adventure It’s breaking down barriers It’s being bold, adventurous, courageous and daring Our wish for you in 2020 is to make your dreams a reality. All progress begins with a brave decision – be gutsy! What’s coming up?   ★ 2020 Events Calendar:  starting now! From local to international, from short to long, from road to trail, from land to water – there are plenty of opportunities to be gutsy!  ★  Husky Triathlon Festival: 14 Jan 2020 Our first triathlon event of the year targets the Sprint and Classic-distance events – training starts Tues 14 Jan 2020. ★  Relief Run:  18-19 Jan 2020 Join us for a 21km or 5km virtual run/walk on the Northern Beaches as we raise money for the  Australian Red Cross. ★  Learn-to-Programs: 1 Feb 2020 If you’ve ever wanted to learn to run, trail run, cycle, swim or ocean swim – we have an supportive program to guide you. ★  Learn-to-Programs: 1 Feb 2020 If you’ve ever wanted to learn to run, trail run, cycle, swim or ocean swim – we have an supportive program to guide you. ★ Ultra-Trail Australia (UTA): 1 Feb 2020  An iconic trail running event taking place in the Blue Mountains National Park – targeting the 22km and 50km. ★ Jabulani Challenge: 1 Feb 2020 Set in the Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park, this stunning trail run will run in parallel with our UTA program. ★ Full list of programs We have training programs for running, triathlon, swimming, cycling and much more. It all starts with a brave decision – be gutsy!