Welcome along to the first episode of this podcast brought to you by British Triathlon. We'll be giving you expert advice and experiences at all levels of the sport to make sure you're in the best possible shape when you get to the start line.

We're starting off by getting the inside track on preparing for a new season. We've got some different takes on the importance of planning, preparation and goal setting.

We've got three guests today - all Home Nation members of British Triathlon.

Paula Higgins has been in triathlon for five years. When she signed up to her first event, she couldn't even swim. She'd still describe herself as a completer rather than a competer. But having learnt to swim she found she absolutely loved the sport. This year she's going for longer distances.

Claire Walters only started in the sport last year after being an active and competitive cyclist. She surprised herself by picking up some podium finishes and also qualified for the GB Age-Group team in cross duathlon.

Donald Brooks started triathlon in 2014 at the age of 37. He's had an incredible time in the sport and in 2022 became British age group champion in every discipline and every distance. He's also got World and European titles to his name too!

The podcast is presented by Mark Shardlow, who's been part of the BBC's production of Olympic, Paralympic, Commonwealth and European Games since 2010....and Dan Ward, otherwise known as Triathlon Dan. Dan has a YouTube channel charting his journey in the sport.

British Triathlon Home Nation members get early access to these podcasts along with other benefits. Details at www.britishtriathlon.org