Learning from Ben the 'science' of training has been intriguing and very educational. I now realize how deep science has penetrated to advance the physical capabilities of a human, especially an endurance athlete. The tools, measurements, and physical testing he employs provide a factual base that can be used for years to come. It is reassuring to know there is a sound scientific parameter individualized to me that I can utilize to improve my own performance. In the beginning I harbored a fear that a professional trainer would attempt to train me at a professional athlete level, rather than at the injured, rehab, elderly female athlete level I was at. Those fears did not last long. Ben conveys to me not only at my physical level, but also his counseling and training limitations whenever they occur. 

With my rehab, whenever I had a biomechanical problem beyond his skill level, without a pause, he referred me to a sports med doc.  If it was within his skills and expertise, he provided a solid knowledge base for me to utilize.  It is very important to me to feel I can trust my trainer, and that he isn't randomly providing info that may, in the long run, cause more physical damage. I appreciate the objectivity, guidance, and teaching with my stroke analysis. At best I considered myself a “synchronized drowner” and, typical of many triathletes, just “made it through the swim”. Ben started me with drills where I knew I would drown merely completing a set. He developed a plan where, in essence, I started over learning how to swim. Several times he would videotape me above and below the water level while swimming. What an incredible insight to see I was doing exactly what I knew I wasn't doing!

After months of sticking to his plan, I can now state, for the first time in my entire life, I do believe what I am doing in the water, can now be called “swimming”. Even my daughter and husband, both competitive swimmers, are impressed at my new level. Will I ever be in the top percent finishers of the swim during a race? Probably not. But I feel way more confident in my ability and believe I won’t be dragging out exhausted with the final 5% of swimmers. Other skills I would applaud Ben for possessing, include his attentiveness to detail, flexibility with change, and patience for the new learner. He has been respectful for my changing schedule and the variables that my profession presents. He is always patient, yet thorough, with my multiple questions regarding training specifics. 

Sometimes it takes the learner several times to hear "the same thing", yet Ben never comes across as impatient and frustrated with my entry level of learning. And, he has been incredible with consistent and immediate communications.  I never wait beyond 12 hours, if ever that, for a follow up from him.  Does he ever take a day off?

On a personal note, Ben has accepted without "scolding" that I have "bad days", and sometimes just can't do certain levels of training. Perhaps that is the “inner child” in me. I can’t stand doing something wrong, or not well enough, to please the teacher. To this characteristic of mine, he has been most kind. Finally, Ben is most appropriate yet very personable with all communications, humour, urging on, and training tips. If I wanted a book, I could buy and utilize one. I didn’t, and still don’t. I’m a personable type and desire, and need, personal contact and relationships.

What a delightful professional I now have in my life!

Cindy F., Spokane, WA

Dear Ben,

As an older athlete that began triathlons four years ago I must state you have been instrumental in helping me to achieve my fitness goals. My initial goal, four years ago was to loss weight and simply feel more energetic, however the training was much more involved than I had anticipated.

It was a bit disappointing to me that I actually worked so many hours and did achieve some weight loss and improved fitness but I felt it was not commiserate with the amount of work I had performed. This was under the guidance of another trainer—not you but I wanted to give some history to those that might relate to my story!

In fact the next year I basically dropped out since my business could not afford my 3 hour-long workouts anymore. After skipping a year I was re-motivated and set a goal to do another mini triathlon if and only if I could keep my training to a reasonable level, meaning 1 hour per day with maybe one or two longer workouts on the weekend. My circle of trainers and sports personal had expanded and provided an opportunity for me to train under the advise of another athlete and I accomplished better results my second season.

This year I was undecided as to if I wanted to compete or not being well over 50 years old and healthy seemed to be enough, but it really was not enough for me. I wanted to give myself one season where I basically set a goal of being trained both physically and nutritionally better than my previous seasons. After an initial consultation with you I still was undecided, however after meeting you and getting a taste of your knowledge of the sport I was sold. However, being sold and being satisfied are two different things.

Right now I have trained for a couple of months and my body fat level has dropped from near 19% to just over 15%. I finally have a nutritional (fueling) plan that makes sense and does allow me to eat enough for energy but not so much that I put on fat. It became immediately apparent to me you truly care about your clients and work very diligently to help them achieve their goals. At my age I will never be an overall triathlon champion, but with your training my goal of being the best fit, most energetic, and happiest over 50 athlete is well within my grasp.

Thanks for everything,

Yours in sweat,

Dave M., Colbert, WA