Without a Goal on the Calendar, Do You Still Count as an Athlete?

2025-09-03

Most of us define ourselves by the training plan, the race on the horizon, the number pinned to our chest. But what happens when that’s gone — through injury, retirement, or just life getting in the way? In this episode, Simon and Beth dig into the messy subject of identity in sport: Are you still an athlete without an event to aim for? Is identity shaped by how we see ourselves, or how others see us? Why it’s vital to build interests beyond swim, bike, run. Practical ways to navigate transitions and protect your sense of self....

In this episode, Simon and Beth dig into the messy subject of identity in sport:

Are you still an athlete without an event to aim for?
Is identity shaped by how we see ourselves, or how others see us?
Why it’s vital to build interests beyond swim, bike, run.
Practical ways to navigate transitions and protect your sense of self.

A conversation every athlete will face sooner or later.

Resources & Links:

Check out this blog post which explains The Change House model

Models on managing change (including The Change House). Links in show notes.

Coming up soon:
Episodes on fasting, and why so many runners notice a decline in their 50s (and what you can do about it). If you have questions, please share them with us.

Battle Ready reminder:
WE DON'T RUST, WE RISE!

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