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Thank You and Merry Christmas

2019 has been an amazing year for Team BEXI. We’ve stepped out of our comfort zones and embraced our goals – living up to our values of fun, fitness and friendship. As we close the year, we would like to say a heartfelt Thank You for all your support and patronage over the past year. Our BEXI Community scaled great heights in 2019 – much owing to the support of our extended BEXI community. We are gearing up for another amazing year in 2020 – kicking off with our 10-Year Anniversary.  Lots of excitement  and celebrations planned for this incredible milestone! In 2020 we have chosen a motto that focuses on being bold, adventurous, courageous, daring, fearless — Be Gutsy! We have created an abundance of opportunities for our BEXI Community to embrace these adventures and Be Gutsy.   BEXI News ★  Christmas Gift Vouchers Give the gift of love to someone special this Christmas – a Gift Voucher for any of our upcoming Learn-to-Programs. ★  Learn-to-Programs If you’ve ever wanted to learn to run, trail run, cycle, swim or ocean swim – we have an supportive program to guide you. ★  Husky Triathlon Festival Our first triathlon event of the year targets the Sprint and Classic-distance events – training starts Tues 14 Jan 2020. ★ Ultra-Trail Australia (UTA) An iconic trail running event taking place in the Blue Mountains National Park – training starts Sat 1 Feb 2020. ★ Jabulani Challenge Set in the Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park, this stunning trail run will join our UTA program – training starts Sat 1 Feb 2020. ★ Platinum Membership Package We will be introducing our Platinum Membership package for our program-specific multi-sport programs and trail-running programs. ★ 2020 Events Calendar From local to international, from short to long, from road to trail, from land to water – there are plenty of opportunities to Be Gutsy!  As we sign-off for the festive season, we would like to wish you and your families a Merry Christmas  and Happy New Year from our BEXI Community.   Festive wishes, Debbie & Team BEXI  xoxo

Jabulani Challenge – Sat 4 Apr 2020

Set in the beautiful Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park and finishing a the historical Bobbin Head – the Jabulani Challenge offers and awesome trail running experience.    Predominantly on single track, the trail has everything to offer – from waterside tracks, rainforest, bushland, steep hill inclines and creek crossings. With event distances of 12km, 22km and 45km – there is a distance to suit everyone.  The event takes place on Sat 4 April. Our 10-week training program kicks off on 1 Feb 2020. It is aimed at supporting runners who are looking to attempt their first trail running event (12km);  those who would like to take on a challenge (22km);  or those who would like to attempt their first ultra-marathon event (45km). About our  program Our training philosophy is based on 80% ‘easy-paced’ runs – where you are running at a comfortable pace, able to talk to your buddies without feeling out of breath;  to 20% ‘high-intensity’ runs – where you are running at an ‘uncomfortable’ threshold pace. These high-intensity runs include hill reps, stair reps and speedwork. Each week we focus on strength, flexibility, mobility, speed and endurance runs.   The program is scaled to accommodate the three distances and offers an inclusive, supportive environment.  We train together as a team, as this offers a great sense of camaraderie between fellow trail-run buddies.  Most of our training sessions are coached sessions, however there are a few sessions that will need to be completed on your own.   Training starts on Sat 1 Feb 2020 and is limited to 10 x members. * Program subject to change What are the pre-requisites? Jabulani 12km Jabulani 22km Jabulani 45km Runners who are consistently running 5-10km Runners looking to attempt their first trail run Runners who are in good health and injury-free Runners who are consistently running 10-20km Runners who already participate in some trail running Runners who are in good health and injury-free Runners who are consistently running 20+km Runners who already participate in trail running and would like to attempt an ultra-marathon distance 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? 10-week online training program 40+ x coached training sessions (see above) 3-4 x excursion runs (in the Blue Mountains) 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 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.  Coach Andy Smith has completed 3 x UTA100 events with a PB of 12:25:17 and 3rd place age category. Your Investment Platinum Membership – $60 p/week across 10-weeks – (1 Feb 2020 – 4 Apr 2020) Unlimited weekly group training sessions (see above) Excursion runs in Blue Mountains Program limited to 10 x participants (Program subject to numbers) Our Commitment Jabulani – “be happy” – is a fundraising event aimed at supporting disadvantaged families living in South Africa. All funds raised will assist families who live below the bread line, and/or where their health, safety, education and livelihoods are at risk or vulnerable. BEXI is proud to support this charity event and commits to donating a portion of our registration proceeds to this program.

Christmas Gift Vouchers

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Give the gift of love to someone special – a life-changing BEXI Christmas Gift Voucher.    We’ve made available a few BEXI Christmas Gift Vouchers for our upcoming Learn-to-Programs. These life-changing programs are built to support beginners with technique, confidence and fitness. Our Learn-to-Programs all kick off at the beginning of February 2020: Learn-to-Run Aimed at beginners who are looking to learn the techniques of running, and would like to make running a regular activity. It is a gentle and supportive program, starting at a low fitness base and gradually building up to running 5km. Learn-to-Trail Run Aimed at runners who are looking to build running confidence on the trails. We will teach you the basics of trail running, how it differs from road running and the specific techniques for running on variable terrain. Learn-to-Cycle Aimed at beginners who are looking to develop confidence and skill on the bike. The program focuses on basic bike safety principles; bike maintenance, handling skills; road safety skills and traffic awareness. Learn-to-Swim Aimed at beginner swimmers who are looking to build confidence and develop technique in the pool.  The program focuses on correct breathing techniques, key swim drills to improve swim technique, stroke correction, safety strategies and much more. Learn-to-Ocean Swim Aimed at swimmers who are looking to build confidence and technique in the open water (ocean). The program focuses on breathing, open water technique, stroke correction, how to read the surf, how to swim out and back through the waves, how to swim straight and see what’s going on around you, beach safety and rip awareness, how to use rip currents to your advantage, how to body-surf, and much more. Program Cost Our Learn-to-Programs are based on 8-week programs, which are broken into two 4-week blocks: Level 1: learn technique and confidence – $120 Level 2: apply technique and further develop confidence – $120 SPECIAL OFFER: Save $20 if book both Level 1 and Level 2 programs – $220 vs $240   Secure your Christmas Gift Voucher today!

New York City Marathon – Sun 1 Nov 2020

Join our BEXI team on Sun 1 Nov 2020 as we take part in the world’s largest marathon – the New York City Marathon. The exceptional course takes you through the five boroughs of Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Manhattan’s iconic Central Park.  The atmosphere is truly magical, as hundreds of thousands of spectators line the streets of New York City and make you feel like a superstar!  2020 is also the New York City Marathon’s 50th Anniversary – making the event even more special! Secure your entry today! We are pleased to announce that we will be partnering with Travelling Fit as our International Tour Operator for 2020. Travelling Fit have released their 2020 packages and are currently taking bookings. To secure your entry, please review the 2020 package options and pay your Initial Deposit of $1,050.  This will secure your race entry and event package. Please note, your initial deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable – see booking terms & conditions. How does the payment structure work? 2020 Packages Options 4-day/3-night package 6-day/5-night package Packages include guaranteed race entry, accommodation (various days/nights), meet & greet, private coach transfer to race start, and much more!  Packages exclude flights to/from New York. About our marathon training program? Our 16-week training program will start on 6 July 2020.  Each week we will focus on 3 x weekly group training sessions and a specific strength & conditioning program. To receive details of our marathon training program when it is announced, please add your name to our list by emailing Debbie Solms.  Full training program details will be announced in early 2020. ♣ Secure your race entry with Travelling Fit today!  

Husky Triathlon Festival 2020

If you’re looking for a super-fun triathlon festival – which is also one of Australia’s most loved events – then this is for you! The Husky Triathlon Festival – 29 Feb to 1 March 2020 – offers lots of excitement for everyone.  Inclusive of the entire family – from Miniman (7-12yrs) to Sprint/Classic/Ultimate distances; from Ocean Swims to Aquabike. It’s a weekend of fun and excitement!  Our BEXI team had the best time in 2019 and have already organised fab accommodation and planned a couple of amazing training programs for the festival.  About our Program This year we have created a short 7-week program that kicks off on Tues 14 Jan 2020.  Purposely planned so you can enjoy your Summer holidays without the pressure of having to train.  Our focus this year are the Sprint and Classic-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. Classic – 1km swim | 60km bike | 10km run For those who have already done a Sprint and would like to progress to the next level. The above program is provisional and subject to change. What is included? 7-week online training program 40 coached sessions Fully coached Sat long bike rides Fully coached Sun ocean swim training Mental skills and strategies Race nutrition and recovery Race tactics and guidance Race weekend logistics Motivational support Access to private online forum Membership of a supportive, like-minded Community What is excluded? Friday coached swim training – a training session will be provided for you to complete on your own Race entry fee Race accommodation and travel BEXI Tri-Suit (optional) – orders must be placed by Fri 17 Jan 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 – $60 p/week across 7-weeks (14 Jan  to 28 Feb 2020) Program based on 12 x participants (Program subject to numbers)  

Bare Creek Trail Run – Sun 10 Nov 2019

The Bare Creek Trail Run offers a picturesque off-road run on the fire trails of the stunning Garigal National Park in St Ives, Sydney’s north shore.   This is a perfect event for all ages and abilities – whether you’re just starting out with trail running, or an experienced trail runner. From the 2km Dash, 6km Family Walk/Run, to the more challenging 12km and 20km courses. About the program Our 4-week training program kicks off on Mon 14 Oct 2019 – and is aimed at supporting runners who are looking to attempt their first trail running event (6km/12km) or those who would like to take on a challenge (20km). This is a great warm-up run for those who have their sights set on our UTA program which starts in Feb 2020. Whats involved? 4-Week skills-based program Weekly Saturday trail run (on/around Bare Creek course) Weekly strength training (for injury prevention & performance) Weekly hills, stairs training (for strength, endurance & performance) What equipment do I need? Trail shoes – recommended but not essential Head torch  The coach will chat to you about other equipment required for racing When do we train? Our training program offers an inclusive, supportive environment – where you are encouraged, motivated and very much part of our BEXI family.  We train together as a team, as this offers a great sense of camaraderie between fellow trail-run buddies. Training starts on Mon 14 Oct 2019  and is limited to 12 x members. What is excluded? Race entry fee 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.  Coach Andy Smith has completed 3 x UTA100 events with a PB of 12:25:17 and 3rd place age category. Your Investment $50 p/week across 4-weeks – (14 Oct – 10 Nov 2019) GOLD members FREE Program limited to 12 x participants  

Ultra-Trail Australia (UTA) – 22km | 50km

Recognised as one of the most significant trail running events – the UTA has become one of the most talked about endurance events on the global trail running calendar.     The event takes place on the breathtaking trails located in the Blue Mountains National Park of Australia on the date of 13-16 May 2021. We are super-excited to be offering a training program for this event, focusing on the 22km and 50km distances. About the program Our 16-week training program kicks off on Mon 1 Feb 2021 and is aimed at supporting athletes who are looking to attempt their first trail running event; take on a challenge; and those who would like to attempt their first ultra-marathon event. Each week we focus on strength, flexibility, mobility, speed and endurance runs.  A few of our endurance runs will be ‘on-course’ in the Blue Mountains – where we will practice running on the event course. The program is scaled to accommodate the three distances. The key to success for this event is consistent training. Committing to our 16-week training program will yield successful improvements in performance and forward progression. What is included in the program? 16-week online training program Wide range of group training sessions Race nutrition and recovery – (in collaboration with Mad on Nutrition) Mental skills and strategies Analysis and feedback on training data Race day logistics Membership of a supportive, like-minded Community FREE BEXI Buff – they’re really cool!!  What is excluded? Race entry fee Training weekend at Six Foot Track Eco Lodge (optional) On-course excursion runs on Sundays (in Blue Mountains) – $20pp (optional) Travel and accommodation (we are holding a few beds at the YHA Katoomba) 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.  Coach Andy Smith has completed 3 x UTA100 events with a PB of 12:25:17 and 3rd place age category. Coach Tamara Madden has completed 2 x UTA100 events with a PB of under 14:30hrs, placing her 9th in her age group. Your Investment Gold Membership – $50 p/week across 16-weeks – (1 Feb – 15 May 2021 ) Unlimited weekly group training sessions

Kurnell Sprint Triathlon – 24 Nov 2019

New to triathlon? Or secretly keen to give triathlon a go? We have the perfect one for you – the Kurnell Sprint. Swim in Botany Bay, ride through the Kamay National Park and run an amazing piece of Sydney parkland.    Our 10-week training program is aimed at supporting the beginner/novice triathlete set a goal of participating in Sydney’s must-do triathlon – the Kurnell Sprint on Sunday 24 November 2019. We offer a supportive environment, where members feel encouraged, motivated and very much part of our BEXI (Beauty of Exercise) family. We train together as a team, as this offers a great sense of camaraderie between fellow triathlete buddies.  Most of our training sessions are coached sessions, however there are a few sessions that will need to be completed on your own (or with your buddies). Training starts on Sat 21 Sept 2019 and is limited to 12 x members.  * Program subject to change Can I really do a Sprint Triathlon? We are committed to supporting and encouraging all members who are keen to participate in our programs. As a guideline, we have set some prerequisites to support your journey. Do I need to be a good Swimmer? Most beginner triathletes are not particularly good swimmers.  If you can swim between 400m continuously in the ocean pool, then you have the foundation for progressing to open water swimming. Our BEXI Swim Coach will introduce you to open-water swim skills, including breathing techniques, form and endurance building.  The biggest surprise for beginner triathletes is that they learn to love swimming. On the Northern Beaches, we have access to the best beaches for open water swimming. What Gear do I need? You don’t need to spend a bunch of money on triathlon-specific gear to do a triathlon. The most important thing about the gear you use for a triathlon is comfort. The biggest investment is your bicycle. Most beginner triathletes use a hybrid or mountain bike for their first triathlon. You can then progress to an entry-level road bike – after which your love-affair for a fancy-pants road bike will begin. We’ve compiled a beginners-list of the gear you need for each discipline. What is included? 10-week online training program 40 x coached training sessions 1 x race simulation session Mental skills and strategies Race nutrition and recovery Race 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 What is excluded? Race entry fee Learn-to-Swim Program (optional) – choose from Level 1 or Level 2 Learn-to-Cycle Program (optional) – choose from Level 1 or Level 2 BEXI Tri-Suit (optional) – orders must be placed by Fri 27 Sept 2019   About our Coaches Our coaches are qualified across the sport of triathlon – swim, bike and run. Each coach has unique experience in competing in triathlons (across various distances), as well as taking part in the ITU Age-Group World Championships. Your Investment $50 p/week across 10-weeks – (21 Sept to  24 Nov 2019) Unlimited weekly group training sessions (swim, bike, run, strength) Payable weekly, fortnightly or monthly – you choose Program limited to 12 x participants

Ironman 70.3 Sunshine Coast – 8 Sept 2019

Our absolute favourite long-distance triathlon! Ironman 70.3 Sunshine Coast offers the best of triathlon in Australia – energising sunshine, stunning coastline, lush landscape and awesome crowd support. That’s why we keep going back for more… and in 2019 we’d love you to join us!  The 1.9km swim takes place at Mooloolaba’s spectacular surf beach – starting and finishing at the ‘Loo with a View’.  Cheering crowds await you as you exit transition for the 90km cycle-leg which heads out onto the Sunshine Coast Motorway – it’s fast and smooth with a few undulations. Finally, the 21km run takes in the iconic Mooloolaba Esplanade for a 2-lap run following the coastline. The crowd support is sensational! If you’re a seasoned triathlete who has completed a few standard-distance triathlons – this event is definitely for you.  About our Program Our programs are always build on the foundation of having FUN! We start our 16-week Tri-FIT program on Mon 20 May 2019. The program is structured into periodised blocks focused on base, build, peak & taper phases. Each week we will complete training sessions for all three disciplines – swim, bike and run. We train together as a team, as this offers encouragement, motivation, accountability for showing up and a great sense of camaraderie between fellow triathlete buddies.  Most of these sessions are coached sessions, however there are a few sessions that will need to be completed on your own (or with your buddies). You will receive your own online training plan sent to you each week via Training Peaks. Our aim is to customise each individual training plan so that it fits in with your lifestyle. We feel very strongly that your training is balanced with your family and work commitments. Below is a draft outline of our training program: * Own training sessions  |  Program subject to change What is included? 16-week online training program 68+ total coached sessions – across swimming, cycling, running and strength Mental skills and strategies Race nutrition and recovery Race tactics and guidance Monthly face-to-face program review meetings Analysis and feedback on training data Race weekend logistics Motivational support Access to private online forum Membership of a supportive, like-minded Community Glass of bubbles at the finish! NEWSFLASH! We are thrilled to announce that we will be partnering with Northern Suburbs Triathlon Club (NSTC) to support our cycle training. This is the largest discipline of a triathlon and requires a lot of focus and training. Together we will be offering long bike rides on Saturday mornings – aimed at distances from 40km to 100km+. Members will be  guided by our coaches in terms of the best suited cycle group to join. To take part in these long bike rides, members will need to register as a NSTC member and with Tri-NSW. This will ensure members have insurance for training and racing (plus other benefits). What is excluded? Swim squad training – you are encouraged to join Shelly Swim Club and/or Bold & Beautiful Swim Club Membership to NSTC ($50 p/a) and Tri-NSW ($142 p/a) – from 1 July 2019 Race entry fee BEXI Tri-Suit (optional) – orders must be placed by Fri 5 July 2019 Program Prerequisites We are committed to supporting and encouraging all to participate in our programs, whilst keeping the health and safety of its members a priority. Training for an Ironman 70.3 event is a huge commitment – it requires discipline, motivation, determination and persistence. Please view our program prerequisites for a guideline of our baseline requirements before embarking on such an event. 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 Standard to Ironman distances) – as well as representing Australia at ITU Age-Group World Championships. Your Investment $60 p/week across 16-weeks – (20 May to 8 Sept 2019) Unlimited weekly group training sessions (swim, bike, run, strength) Payable weekly, fortnightly or monthly – you choose Program based on 14 x participants        

Training Program Prerequisites

Beauty of Exercise is committed to supporting and encouraging all to participate in our programs, whilst keeping the health and safety of its members and coaches a priority.  At the start of our programs, all participants will be required to complete a basic health assessment and will be reviewed by the relevant coach to ensure participants have the necessary capabilities. The participant will be guided by the relevant coach as to the best suited program. It is also important for any existing injuries to be identified to the coaches so as to ensure no further long term damage. The following is a guideline of existing fitness capabilities recommended to help you choose the program(s) best suitable for you: Learn-to-Programs Learn-to-Run 5km  Currently walk comfortably for 30mins Does not have any injuries Learn-to-Trail Run  Can comfortably run 5-10km Runs 5-10km on a regular basis Has a good fitness base Does not have any injuries Learn-to-Swim (Level 1) – Pool Can comfortably swim a minimum 100m continuously Learn-to-Swim (Level 2) – Pool Can comfortably swim a minimum 400m continuously Float and tread water for 1 minute Preferably completed Learn-to-Swim (Level 1) program or equivalent Learn-to-Ocean-Swim (Level 1) – Beginner Ocean Skills Can comfortably swim a minimum 300m continuously Float and tread water for 1 minute Preferably completed Learn-to-Swim (Levels 1 & 2) program or equivalent Learn-to-Ocean-Swim (Level 2) – Intermediate Ocean Skills Can comfortably swim a minimum 500m continuously Float and tread water for 1 minute Be comfortable in a deep water ocean setting Preferably completed Learn-to-Swim (Levels 1 & 2) programs or equivalent; as well as Learn-to-Ocean-Swim (Level 1) program or equivalent Learn-to-Cycle (Level 1) – Traffic-Free Roads Can comfortably cycle for 30mins on traffic-free roads Owns a bike that is in good working order (recently serviced).  All bike types are welcome – road, hybrid or mountain bike. We do not recommend recumbents or BMX bikes. Learn-to-Cycle (Level 2) – Low-Traffic Roads Can comfortably cycle for 5-10km on traffic-free roads Preferably completed Learn-to-Cycle (Level 1) or equivalent Owns a bike that is in good working order (recently serviced).  All bike types are welcome – road, hybrid or mountain bike. We do not recommend recumbents or BMX bikes.   Running Programs 10km Can comfortably run for 20-30mins Preferably completed Learn-to-Run 5km program or equivalent Runs 4-5km on a regular basis Has an moderate fitness base Does not have any injuries Half-Marathon Can comfortably run 5-10km Runs 5-10km on a regular basis Has an good fitness base Does not have any injuries Marathon Can comfortably run 10km Runs 10km on a regular basis Has an good fitness base Does not have any injuries   Triathlon Programs* Sprint Distance Can comfortably swim 400m in open water Can confidently cycle 10km on open roads Preferably completed Learn-to-Swim (Levels 1 & 2) or equivalent Preferably completed Learn-to-Ocean Swim (Levels 1 & 2) or equivalent Preferably completed Learn-to-Cycle  (Levels 1 & 2) or equivalent Current TA member to ensure you are covered by Insurance Standard Distance Can comfortably swim 600m in open water Can confidently cycle 20-30km on open roads and in small groups Completed sprint-distance triathlon in the last 2-3 years Preferably completed Learn-to-Swim (Levels 1 & 2) or equivalent Preferably completed Learn-to-Ocean Swim (Levels 1 & 2) or equivalent Preferably completed Learn-to-Cycle  (Levels 1 & 2) or equivalent Current TA member to ensure you are covered by Insurance  Long Distance 70.3  Can comfortably swim 1km in open water Can confidently cycle 50-60km on open roads and in small groups Completed standard-distance triathlon in the last 2-3 years Preferably completed Learn-to-Swim (Levels 1 & 2) or equivalent Preferably completed Learn-to-Ocean Swim (Levels 1 & 2) or equivalent Preferably completed Learn-to-Cycle  (Levels 1 & 2) or equivalent Current TA member to ensure you are covered by Insurance * Beauty of Exercise provides various beginner-level swimming and cycling programs (Learn-to-Swim, Learn-to-Ocean-Swim and Learn-to-Cycle programs) which complement the Triathlon programs and have been specifically designed to support capabilities. We look forward to you joining our training programs and will ensure we support you every step of the way.  Should you have any questions about the above, please contact Debbie Solms on 0400 455 151.