Member Story - Conquering the Road to Victory

Pippa Murphy

Pippa Murphy has been a dedicated member of Colets Health and Fitness since 2010, and her journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

In 2023, Pippa accomplished a monumental fitness goal; completing the L’Etape du Tour. This gruelling event involved a 156km ride with 4,000 meters of climbing, all in sweltering 37-degree heat. Pippa’s success is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and the support she found here at Colets.

What motivated you to take on L’Etape du Tour 2023?

Completing L’Etape du Tour 2023 was driven by my passion for cycling and the desire to push my limits. The challenge of 156km and 4,000m of climbing in intense heat was daunting, but I was determined to finish ahead of the broom wagon.

How did Colets contribute to your success?

Colets played a significant role in my achievement by providing a convenient, accessible, and supportive environment for my training. The local facilities made it easy for me to maintain a consistent training routine and also offered a place to relax and recover.

How would you describe your best year yet in terms of wellness?

2023 has been my best year yet in terms of wellness because I managed to stay injury-free, avoid major illnesses, and accomplish my latest fitness goal. Being able to train consistently without setbacks was key to my success.

Which Colets classes or personnel have impacted your fitness journey the most?

Spin classes at Colets were instrumental in preparing me for road cycling.

However, for this particular achievement, I owe a lot to Caroline Taylor. She developed a gym programme to enhance my bike strength and provided weekly guidance from January until just before the event in July. Her support was invaluable.

What advice would you give to someone starting their wellness journey in 2024?

Set a clear goal, sign up for an event, and develop a training plan. It's easy to fall into a routine of attending the same classes and doing the same workouts.

Pushing yourself outside your comfort zone is beneficial both mentally and physically. Embrace new challenges to keep your fitness journey exciting and rewarding.

Do you have any new targets or goals for 2024?

Absolutely! I’m pushing myself even further by signing up for an Ironman 70.3.

This is a huge challenge for me as swimming isn’t my strong suit, and I’m not fond of running, even though I’ve completed the London Marathon in the past.

The event is in October, so I have plenty of time to train and prepare. Cathy has already provided me with some invaluable swimming tips, and I’m ready to tackle this new goal.

“Spin classes at Colets were instrumental in preparing me for road cycling.”

Would you recommend Colets to others?

Without a doubt, yes. I love the friendly atmosphere at Colets. It’s a place where you feel welcomed and supported, making it easier to stay motivated and committed to your fitness journey.

Pippa’s story is a shining example of how setting goals, seeking support, and pushing your limits can lead to incredible achievements.

Hopefully her journey at Colets has helped to inspire you to pursue your own fitness and wellness goals with renewed determination and enthusiasm!