My Journey as an Endurance Athlete Coach

Hi, I’m Chester Dilday, an endurance athlete coach with a passion for helping others achieve their fitness goals. I honestly believe that with the right guidance, every athlete has the potential to achieve greatness!  My journey into the world of endurance sports began with a friendly challenge years ago, and it has been an incredible adventure filled with highs and lows.

My love for competitive sports started early in life and extended throughout my career in the US Navy.  The discipline and structure of military life taught me how to create effective training plans, manage time efficiently, and practice accountability.  

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of participating in countless Sprint and Olympic distance races, double digit 70.3 mile races, and full Ironman races including Mont-Tremblant, Chattanooga and Ironman California.  I have qualified for World Championships multiple times. I am also honored to have achieved the distinction of representing Team USA at the Long Distance World Triathlon Championships in Queensland Australia, finishing first in my age group for Team USA and ranking top five worldwide.

Like any journey, mine was not without its obstacles. I struggled with over-training leading to recurring injury, nutrition and weight control, mental and physical fatigue, dismissing the importance of active recovery, and broken bones due to two separate biking accidents.  As an active competitor and a coach, I understand the unique challenges and triumphs that come with the journey.  

My coaching philosophy comes with a thirst for knowledge in endurance sports that is insatiable. My approach is holistic, focusing not only on physical training but also on nutrition, recovery, mobility, and mental wellness, giving you faster results while minimizing setbacks, plateaus and ongoing injuries. I have worked with, trained with, and studied under expert swim coaches, running coaches, nutritionists and biking experts both in the US and Internationally.  I continue to learn, study and consult with industry experts while actively training and competing.  

My results driven approach has proven effective for the novice completing their first 5K, the intermediate athlete setting a new PR and making the podium, and the elite athlete qualifying for a World Championship event.  

Tips for Aspiring Endurance Athletes: For those looking to improve their endurance, I would ask you to take a good look at the overall balance of your current training program.  Most triathletes train within the three disciplines of swim, bike and run, while ignoring the extreme importance of strength & mobility, sleep, mindset, active recovery & nutrition.  It doesn’t require more training time… it requires the correct balance of all disciplines to produce measured results!

Reflecting on my journey, I am grateful for the experiences and lessons learned. I encourage everyone to pursue their endurance goals with passion and determination. Your journey may be challenging, but the rewards are worth it.  Are you ready to take your endurance sport performance to the next level? Let’s connect!  I’m here to help you every step of the way.  Free 15-minute consultations are available!  

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