SMH Half-Marathon – Sun 17 May 2020

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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?
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)

 

SMH Half-Marathon 2019

 

Tri the Gong – Sun 19 April 2020

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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?

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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?

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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

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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! 

 

Jabulani Challenge – Sat 4 Apr 2020

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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?
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

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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

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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

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

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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

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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?
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