#89 Endurance Sport & Psychological Wellbeing: A Holistic Perspective on Performance and Personal Development | Ali Hollest

Today, I am joined by Ali Hollest, a holistic personal and professional development coach, podcaster, triathlon coach, and athlete. Committed to advocating a holistic approach to wellness, Ali aims to inspire both physical and psychological performance.

In this episode, we discuss how sports participation extends far beyond physical achievements. Rather, it enriches our psychological well-being, fosters growth, personal development, and cultivates heightened self-awareness.

We discuss the therapeutic benefits of running, emphasising the importance of embracing the process over merely aiming to cross finish lines or fixating on statistics. Training should be fun, playful, an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and connect with like minded others - embedded sustainability into your lifestyle - allowing for longevity, and overall fulfilment. 

A highlight of our talk is Ali's recounting of the "Snowdon 6 Ways Challenge," an incredible endurance event he designed to honour the memory of his friend, Milo. He details this gruelling challenge, covering 80km and over 5200m of ascent, with limited rest between legs. Supported by a team of close friends and an incredible crew, This challenge not only showcased human resilience but also the power of community and support, capturing the essence of what Ali advocates.

More about Ali:
 
"To cut a colourful story short, I have felt lost, I have thrived, I have grieved, I have made more than my fair share of mistakes.  I have been in some incredibly low lows yet also reached some brilliant high highs.  My life is in no way perfect and I don't believe it ever will be.  However I am happy in the knowledge that I live every day the best that I can, drawing on all my past and present experience.
From a young age sport has always been a constant in my life, whether playing, coaching or supporting.  I believe there is so much sport can give us, not just the physical and physiological benefits.  Sport challenges us, makes us problem solve, learn the benefits and growth from winning and losing.  It enables us to create relationships that stretch far beyond the sporting arena.  

My employment history has been, well, let's say varied.  From the early years of hospitality across Europe, to bushcraft and survival skills, to setting up and running my businesses I feel I have learnt a heck of a lot along the way.  You know what? I've set up businesses that have thrived.  I've also set up businesses that really haven't!  It's all part of the jigsaw puzzle that will keep on needing to be taken apart and built back up again!"

Find Ali:

www.triswimcoaching.com
@triswimcoaching
@ali_hollest
@evolve_pod