How Singapore's Ironman triathlon Ewin Teo conquers the blues and failed runs
Ewin shares his tips on how to bounce back after losing the rhythm. Plus, some fitness equipment and gear recommendations from Yahoo.
Striking a balance in life may be as simple as carving out time regularly to indulge in an activity of choice. Yahoo Life Singapore chats with personalities who share their passion for a sport or wellness activity they enjoy, which helps them take on the world with zeal. We hope this monthly series will inspire you to find an interest that will add that sparkle to your life.
Ewin Teo, 42, has been an endurance multi-sport athlete for almost 12 years. A regular at races ranging from sprint triathlon to full Ironman distances, he also races in other formats from the Aquathlon (Swim-Run) to Duathlon (Run-Bike-Run). A nature lover, he has also participated in off-road triathlon races.
Yahoo Life Singapore: What is one sport, fitness or wellness activity you love, and how did you get started?
Ewin: Being a multi-sport athlete, I love all my sports. Each discipline gives you different levels of fulfilment. I started out as a runner, but that is also when you tend to get repetitive injuries by overloading yourself. So I chanced upon swimming and biking when I had to lay off running for a long while as I had a bad stress fracture. Those two sports were good alternative outlets to fix my adrenaline needs! Soon, I realised they could be as demanding as running! Eventually, it has become a habit that I want to excel in all three areas. I have never looked back after that.
Applaud and embrace the achievements when you have achieved your goals.Ewin Teo
What are its benefits, and what do you love about it?
In the swim, you are submerged in a medium where you are focused on your breathing and flow. It is not about fighting the element – you have to be with it. On the bike, it is not just about pushing the pedals. It brings you to the destination you want to be at. It gives you not just fitness but also the opportunity to explore. And, of course, for a run, you learn that it fulfills you because getting from Point A to Point B is purely based on your effort.
How often do you indulge in it, and with whom?
A multi-sport athlete needs to have a robust plan so that you achieve the proper training volume for all three sports. For example, I train twice a day, seven times a week. One thing I love about the sport is that you get to train and meet athletes with similar goals. I love to train with my peers who wish to achieve the same goals as I do.
Was there any point you wanted to give up? Why? How did you bounce back?
During the dark period of COVID-19, I was deeply demotivated because races were cancelled. I lost the reason to beat myself in training and eventually toned down a lot in training. When the races resumed, I struggled to return to the rhythm I used to have. I failed a few races, but I also did some reflection thereafter. I pushed through those dark times and found a new drive.
What gear/tools/attire do you need or wear when engaging in the sport or wellness activity?
I have many gears and equipment required for my training and races. To highlight some of the must-have items:
⁃ Garmin watch and bike computer to record my activities
⁃ Goggles and trunks for a swim
⁃ Bicycles (Road /TT/MTB)
⁃ Hoka running shoes and gear
⁃ Mobile phone for music and safety reasons
Remember that you are your biggest enemy. Only you can put yourself down. Be courageous and fight with your best. You never know what the outcome will be.Ewin Teo
Yahoo Life Singapore found these fitness gear to kickstart your wellness journey.
[Click on images for links]
Garmin Venu Sq, GPS Smartwatch with Bright Touchscreen Display
Up to 6 Days of Battery Life, Orchid Purple
CooSpo Cycling GPS Computer Bike Speedometer, Wireless
Bluetooth5.0 Compatibility, IP67 Waterproof, 2.3 inch HD Screen
American Trends Men's Swim Trunks
Aegend Swim Goggles, Swimming Goggles, No Leaking
Speedo Vanquisher 2.0 Mirrored Swim Goggles, Panoramic, Anti-Glare, Anti-Fog with UV Protection
Mobot Foldable Bicycle (Tri-Fold) ROYALE GT M9 Gold Edition
16 inches, 9 speed
Dahon Mariner D8 Folding Bike, Lightweight Aluminum Frame
8-Speed Gears; 20” Foldable Bicycle for Adults
Hoka Men Bondi 8 Wide Running Shoes
Goblin Blue / Mountain Spring
Hoka Men Rincon 3 Wide Running Shoes
Illuminating / Radiant Yellow
Hoka Men Clifton 9 Wide Running shoes
Vibrant Orange / Impala
Please share one thing you learned from this sports activity or what you wish others to discover.
I learned that we need to set a goal(s) in life to plan for it and keep ourselves motivated. More importantly, this principle can also be applied outside of sports.
Could you share with us your life philosophy/insight that you have gained thanks to the said sports activity?
Applaud and embrace the achievements when you have achieved your goals. But move on from there and do not be complacent. The same goes when you fail in it. You deserve to be sad but move on and put those negativities aside.
What do you love most about yourself?
I learn to adapt and overcome problems. I break hardship into bits and take it one step at a time.
What does your self-care routine look like?
The many years of racing and training to be a better person. I like decompressing myself by putting all my training plans aside and enjoying the process.
Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?
Remember that you are your biggest enemy. Only you can put yourself down. Be courageous and fight with your best. You never know what the outcome will be.
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