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Two members of Long Run Collective quiz each other

LRC athletes are separated by geography but united in supporting each other to achieve their unique goals.

We are delighted to hear from Leah Balentine (based in California, USA) and Joe Crees (based in County Durham, UK) who recently took time to share a few insights with each other – and us – about their training, motivations and music. Over to you Leah and Joe.

Leah: How long have you been training for triathlon and what made you take up that sport? Joe: I’ve been training for triathlon for about 5 months now. Initially I was fully dedicated to running, but after some pretty lengthy niggles in my knees, I started cycling to build up some strength. Loved it, and dived into Tri ever since!

Leah: How has being an athlete changed your life? Joe: Might sound a bit weird, but, it has helped me get closer in touch with my body and helped me understand what it needs. eg. Food, rest, massage, stretching etc. Also, it gives me a positive focus away from my desk! Being able to finish work for the day and go for a ride on the bike or a run in the fields is the best form of unwinding and freedom I have found!

Leah: How have you managed training during the pandemic? Joe: Through support from Georgie and LRC, my training has been consistent and fun throughout the lockdown. In the early stages it taught me to value even just being outside again. So I feel it has made my training a very enjoyable hobby.

Leah: What is one piece of advice that you’ve received that has stuck with you? Joe: Your body is very clever. You don’t need to run fast each session. Build up your engine through steady sessions. Then when it comes down to race time, your body will surprise you with what it can do.

Leah: Do you have a favorite quote or mantra? Joe: My mind creates my experience.

Leah: Can you name a sports person/ athlete or another professional person that you look up to as a role model? Joe: Ant Middleton. He has 4 key pillars when dealing with any situation; Positivity, Acknowledgment, Ownership, Integrity. Following these through difficulties in life and even on the race track helps a lot.

Leah: What is your favorite song to listen to for motivation? Joe: From the point of view of motivation for a race / event, I’m usually very excited mentally, so something to settle me is usually good preparation to motivate me in the best way. I’m a country boy. So, it’s got to be, Chris Stapleton – Tennessee Whiskey.

Joe: What does a rest day look like for you? Leah: A rest day for me is a 12 hour shift as a nurse. I pack my lunch and snacks the night before to make sure I have enough healthy and nourishing foods to get me through the day. I do my best to hydrate during my shift but it isn’t always easy!

Joe: Some days we perform well, some days things just don’t click and we feel rubbish. Have you figured out what can make a good / bad training session for you? Leah: I’ve noticed a few things that tend to affect my running. I tend to have a sensitive stomach and if I eat too close to when I run it’ll take me several miles to not feel queasy. I’ve also discovered within the last couple years that a good warm up is essential! Easy stretching and range of motion really tends to help along with an easy mile or two before the workout begins.