Athletic Coaching Testimonials
© Copyright 2005-2007, Cristin Reichmuth, M.A.. Material provided on this web site is for educational and/or informational purposes only. This
web site does not offer either online services or medical advice. No therapeutic relationship is established by use of this site.
If you have comments or questions, please contact: info@bodyandmindsolutions.com.
"Dearest Coach Cristin, Kooper was so excited to win.  He was walking around most of the afternoon with one or more of his prizes.  The
elusive 1st place is no longer elusive.   He is even more pumped up than ever.  Thanks again,  Cristin.  I am just in awe of what you brought out
of Kooper.  We would have never known had you not continued to recruit him for your Triathlon team."
~Charlotte Knutson, Hammerhead Mom

"It was great having you here in Hawaii and Wildflower to support me.  Thank you!  You are the coach who helps athletes make their own tracks.  
You've made my experiences with triathlon perfect!   I was prepared and strong for my first Olympic (Wildflower) and my first Half-Ironman
(Honu).  As a result, my tri-experience was a good one."
~Laura Rasmussen - McClellan, Triathlete  

(After the Marathon) "Cristin,  I’m very pleased with the results (qualifying for the Boston Marathon with a 3:10!) of my run today (at the 2006 Napa
Marathon)! Even with the rain, cold and wind I think I did very well. I had a little trouble with the hill around mile 18 – 20, but I finished pretty well. I
felt very strong for the first 18 miles and then finished strong. I guess all that training really paid off!!  Thank you for all your help and coaching."
~Todd Andrade, First-time marathon runner

(Before the Marathon) "Cristin, Yes I have my GPS set for running mate. I have it set for 7:00 minute mile pace. If I'm to fast it beeps and if I'm too
slow it vibrates. I have been working on my runs to try to keep them faster than or close to race pace!  I have to be careful not to go out to fast and
burn myself out! I sometimes lose track of my pace and start speeding up!  Thank you for all your help, training, advice and pushing. It has
helped me.
~Todd Andrade, First-time marathon runner

"Dear Cristin,  I wanted to take a moment and thank you for being an incredible coach.  You truly have a unique gift- the ability to inspire people!  
You believe in others and it enables them to believe in themselves.  The people you coach, adults and kids alike, put 110% effort into what they
do because they always have someone in their corner, rooting for them.  The unwavering faith and confidence you convey to your athletes is
priceless!  You coach without condescension or arrogance, teach rather than tell.  High expectations lead to excellent performances.  All of
these things are also what makes you an awesome teacher.  

I am truly amazed at what I have accomplished in the last few months (and how much fun it has been)!  I never would have thought it possible.  I
will never forget the day you looked me in the eye and said, "There is no doubt in my mind that you can do this.  That began a life-changing
journey for me and for my family.  The journey hasn't taken me where I thought it would, but I couldn't be happier about where I am now.  Thank
you for all that you do!"
~Mandi Middleton, Body and Mind Solutions Athlete, lost 50 pounds and 16 inches from June 2005-February 2006

"Dear Cristin, Thank you for everything you've done for me and the team (
Team in Training) this season.  Your approach and ability to relate to
the team really made a huge difference.  Your energy is truly admirable!  Thanks for everything!  You rock!"
~Natalie Adams, Team in Training Team Manager

"C, I wanted to thank you for always pushing me to do more, go further, and ride the hill one more time! :)  I may complain at the time, but I do
appreciate it!  I am amazed at the things I have been able to do in the last few months.  I'm looking forward to further accomplishments!  
Today was my monthly weigh in and measuring.  I lost 12 lbs. this month! That makes a grand total of 42lbs!!  I've also lost 10 inches.  Just
wanted to share.  :)"
~Mandi Middleton, Body and Mind Solutions Athlete

"Coach Cristin, I can't thank you enough for all your help.  You gave me the confidence I needed.  I hope we can train together again sometime.  
Good luck with all your missions!"
Greg Bohlman, Team in Training, Big Kahuna Triathlete

"Coach Cristin, It had been a long time since I'd been coached in swimming.  It was an absolute pleasure to work out with you.  Your
suggestions really helped my swimming and my overall triathlon experience!  I love your attitude and enthusiasm.  You clearly love what you do.  
I'd love to train with you again in the future.  Best of luck in your endeavors!
~Elizabeth, Team in Training, Pacific Grove Triathlete

"Hi Cristin, Thanks for all of your hard work to make the
Hammerhead Tri happen.  Hannah Rae thoroughly enjoyed herself and is totally sold on
triathlons.  She's ready to really focus on them.  The training you gave her in that short time was priceless to her and she couldn't have done the
race without you.  All the advice and encouragement made a huge difference with Hannah Rae.  My only regret is that we live so far away and
Hannah Rae can't train with your
team daily.  We'll be in touch and are still considering the racing team.  We will see you at Davis!" Much
gratitude,
~Debbie Finchamp, Triathlon mom of Hannae Rae, 2nd Place National Ironkids Champion

"... just a note to say that the swim clinic you ran at LSA back in April is paying off.  Having been a competitive swimmer, through school and
university then dropping out of the sport for several years, and now returning to it in my first season in trathlon, your coaching was the perfect re-
orientation - to avoid re-learning past mistakes.   The pre-swim analysis, practical advice and tips for open water, drills and feedback from the
video.... all have given me plenty to work on in training and the results to show.  For others like me using a past swim career as a launch-pad for
triathlon, I'd commend Cristin's positive attitude to coaching and experience, as the way to get on the right track from the start."
~Mike Casey, Engineer, Swimmer, Triathlete

"Cristin has taught me how to swim more efficiently and effortlessly by using less power (muscle...bummer!!!) and effort.  Today, I swam for an
hour with minimal effort and prior to our lesson, I'd be lucky to get 10 minutes in!  Now I'm just looking for another way to use my muscles."
~Chris Goodrich, Muscle Guy & Contractor

"I was surprized how good I felt at the end. I still had a lot of energy. I felt very prepared for the event. I really enjoyed myself. Thank you so much
for the training. I feel the schedule you gave me as well as our weekly meetings was imperative to making the event such an enjoyable
experience. (My husband however was totally worn out my the entire experience and had to take a nap when we returned home. Ha!) Thanks."
~Laura Rasmussen, Age Group Triathlete

"The 2005 Uvas Triathlon was one of hardest triathlons I have done, but was still a very positive experience, as it always is (this was triathlon #9
for me, over a span of 14 years, including 2 breaks of 8-1/2 years & 4 years, respectively).  This race was very important to me, in that it
represented a renewal of a more fit existence, following the birth of our third child.  It was also important because this time, for the first time, I
worked under a coach--Cristin Reichmuth--and with a group of other participants--in the Hammerhead Triathlon Club.  The coaching was
extremely helpful for providing structure and expert guidance for my training schedule, as well an inspirational leader to encourage me at a time
when self-generated motivation was hard to find."
~Lisa Singleton-Quijano, Age Group Triathlete

"Cristin's training program was a great experience.  From the basics to the secrets of the pro's, Cristin draws on her experiences and shares
her knowledge in a training setting.  I would recommend her to anyone looking to get the most out of their race day."
~Andrew Binder, Age Group Triathlete

"Cristin's spirit and experience are an invaluable contribution to my first triathlon. She is a tremendous person whose firm, yet encouraging
expertise makes training something worth waking up early for.  I am blessed to havev Cristin as a coach and friend.  Her ability to pull people
together and keep us focused was a great advantage to my training."
~Tras Berg, Cyclist, Age Group Triathlete

"Cristin's motto, "train because you can" to me means to appreciate my own abilities.  I am training for no one other than myself, and it's a good
feeling.  Cristin's program has taught me how to train smarter which has prevented me from injury.  I am prepared and eager to complete my
third triathlon this weekend!  If it wasn't for this, I wouldn't have kept up my training."
~Denise Binder, Age Group Triathlete

"I wanted to thank you for the informative clinic you put on last Saturday. It was helpful and informative. I felt comfortable being in open water with
a group of women with about the same ability as I. I enjoyed having you watch us swim while videotaping and critiquing our strokes. Being able
to see our film clip will help so we can correct. I especially like the land drills, even though my arms were a bit fatigued, the drill assisted when
we got in the water and actually put them into play. The nutrition tips helped. I won't be carbo loading anymore. The tips on putting on and
removing a wetsuit will be of great help. The next day I got back in the pool and practice really reaching, gliding and keeping my head low.  I look
forward to hearing about other clinics that you may offer in the future. Again, thank you."
-Cecile Riborozo, Age Group Triathlete

"I also wanted to say I thought you put on an excellent clinic.  Your energy and enthusiasm was much appreciated.  Your information was right to
the point.  I also enjoyed the supportive environment of the women.  It was an all around great experience. Just to let you know, that evening my
husband bought me a wetsuit for my Mother's Day present.  Look out OCEAN here I come! I will be seeing you soon in the upcoming ocean
open swim.
Good luck to all the women too."
-Jane McIntosh, Age Group Triathlete

"I shaved 24 seconds off my 500 meter swim!!! Watch out, I'm going to get you. The last time I timed myself was mid January. I owe it all to you
and Alexis. The speed workouts she has me do are great. I use to never have a real workout plan for swimming. You gals rock!"
-Matt Osbourne, Age Group Triathlete & Swimmer

"Cristin, All I can say is WOW! I was impressed with the whole team on Saturday (but especially the performance of my kids!).  Kooper finishing
despite his crash.  Emma gutting it out.  Kimberley's exceptional 3rd place finish.  Patrick's great time of 1:25. Their performance coupled with
the hugeness of the event was inspiring.  This will be memory that all of them will not forget for the rest of their lives.  Great job."
-Jay Elkerton, Father of Two Triathletes on the
Youth Racing Team

“Hi Cristin: I wanted to personally thank you for the time you spent with the San Francisco Triathlon Club members this weekend.  Your swim
clinic was a valuable addition to our Wildflower Training Weekend.  More importantly, I was quite impressed with your positive attitude and
energy. As you know, that's one thing that I think makes our club unique...we are like a big close-knit family.  I'm glad we are sponsoring you this
year.  Keep up your attitude, energy, friendliness and spirit of camaraderie – they attract the type of new members that we love!”
-Lex Grecu, SF Tri Club Past President, Co-Founder, Age Group Triathlete & Swimmer

“I know I speak for many of my fellow triathletes when I say that Cristin will be sorely missed as our Masters Swim coach.  Not only is Cristin a
master of technique, but she also possesses the patience and teaching skills to effectively pass that knowledge on to her swimmers.  Even at
5:30 in the morning, Cristin greets her classes with an infectious smile and genuine enthusiasm - enough so to make you forget that you still
want to be asleep in bed.  Cristin's workouts are consistently fresh and interesting and she is constantly on top of what the members of the
class are doing racewise, tuning the workouts to match.  She has also brought in outside specialists to offer unique opportunities to try new
equipment and technique.  We wish Cristin the best, but we will all miss her just the same."
-Matthew Mizenko, USA Triathlon Worlds Team

“Hi Cristin, You would be so proud of the kids, especially Kooper!  He got a "Top Gun" at Championships (he improved all his times in the max
number of events he could enter).  When we were jumping around celebrating his victory he said it was because of you!  He really got serious
after meeting with you, your motivational talk and stroke instruction did the trick.  I have never seen him more determined or happier.  He looked
wonderful zooming through the water.  Thanks so much Cristin.  Kooper really has so much trust and respect for you.  You have really boosted
his confidence and belief in himself. Fondly, Charlotte Knutson"
-Charlotte Knutson, Swim Team Mom

"Hi Cristin, Just wanted to thank you for all your help during the weeks leading to Treasure Island. I'm sure you had a big part in motivating me to
do my first triathlon this year instead of sometime in the future. I was  especially impressed by how committed, involved and responsive you are
and even though I still need to get my freestyle to a competitive level, I did learn a lot about swimming and triathlon from you in just a few weeks."
-Dov Sharon, Competitive Runner & Age Group Triathlete

“Cristin's true passion for the sport of swimming come through in her coaching. I am a newbie triathlete trying to get set on the right  course in
my swim training. I was referred to Cristin by a fellow San Francisco Triathlon Club member who told me Cristin would be an excellent coach for
evaluating and correcting my swim stroke. She immediately impressed upon me that she was very knowledgeable and had very clear ideas on
her philosophy and coaching methods. Her coaching and drills during the Masters Swim at JCC-SF helped keep me focused on what I must do
in order to perfect my swim stroke. She is very approachable and has a very upbeat personality, which is impressive considering she has to
coach 20 or so swimmers at 5:30 in the morning. Sincerely, Ben Barbante”
-Ben Barbante, Age Group Triathlete & Swimmer

“THANK YOU!!!  You gave out more tips in 10 minutes then I've ever learned.  That Ian Thorpe video was awesome, the goggles under the cap
tip, putting your helmet on as you take off your wet suit legs, Pam, practicing your stroke in the mirror (tried it last night, very high elbow) high
knees in and out of the water, not standing up until your hand touches the beach, mirroring your lead hand, your arm travels through air faster
than water, flat hand entry, kicking like a wild man before getting out... I could go on and on.  I need to get in the water to practice all of this!!!  Do
you do swim clinics?  How can I work with you in the future?  Thanks again.”
-Bryan Hansen, Age Group Triathlete & Swimmer

“I have to share with you my good news (since I give due credit to you for ALL your great coaching, tips, and advice...) I did the KKS 'Practice Tri'
on Sat (1000yd swim, 16mibike, 4mirun).  There was about 25-30 folks. And, granted - not your typical sampling of triathletes...but hey, I'll take
my simple victories where I can.   I came in 2nd on the swim and was the #1 woman!  It was a great personal confidence booster. Also, really
great experience to apply all of the great things I have learned and test my will.  Thanks again.   
Kristine Torrance, Age Group Triathlete & Swimmer

"Cristin's clinic was very informative and beneficial.  She taught me how to swim faster with less energy.  Cristin gave each athlete personal
attention and specific comments on technique and form.  Shortly after Cristin's clinic I completed the Ironman Florida swim faster than I thought
possible. Also, prior to Cristin's clinic my best swim time in the Escape was nearly 41 minutes - after her clinic it dropped to just under 34
minutes."
-Alan Geraldi, SF Tri Club Co-Founder, Age Group Triathlete

Hola Cristin! First I want to thank you sooo much for your help and guidance for me to get acquainted with swimmers and the bay's water. I had
sooo much fun at yesterday's triathlon!!!!! I finished it very well. My time was… The swim was my great pride. Now Alcatraz has a different
meaning to me. After finishing the whole thing I couldn't really speak, I had a knot in my throat and tears in my eyes from the emotion. It was the
very first big event I was able to finish to the very end. This  was my very first triathlon. Now I will work to improve my time. I look forward to meet
with you. Such a wonderful feeling, such great people. I loved the whole thing. Now I want more jaja :-). Thank you!!!
-Francisco Adame, LA Tri Club, Age Group Triathlete

“I wanted to say thanks for the clinic last night. I took 5 pages of notes and have already shared some of my earnings with 2 tri friends. I know
these events are a lot of work but the info was great as was the positive attitude. I left very motivated for my next two races.”
Maigread Eichten, Age Group Triathlete

“I was at the SF Tri Clinic at LSA.  I watched your instruction on the Thorpe technique.  I recently gave it a try in the pool and I can say that I like it
so much I want to learn more and make sure I'm doing it correctly. I need to learn the flip turns as well.  This new technique makes me hit the
wall too fast.  It wasn't a problem before.  It made me tired more quickly but, I'm sure more training will solve that problem.  Where and when are
your next classes that I can join in on?”
William Beaubien, Age Group Triathlete

“I just wanted to thank you again for the swim clinic at Lake San Antonio (Wildflower Training Camp) this past weekend...your energy is
contagious and your tips were awesome!!
-Kiki, Age Group Triathlete

"Thanks for the lesson.  The techniques that you taught me have slowed my stroke down and I do not get nearly as winded and tired from
swimming.  Today I knocked 3 minutes off of my 4  length time, then was able to swim 2 more lengths (at Aquatic Park).  I have a lot more
confidence now for the Angel Isle swim in a couple of weeks.  I will let you know when I need a refresher. Thanks again."
-Gray Calvert, Age Group Triathlete

“I just had to write and tell you I swam for 35 minutes straight today!!! I couldn't believe it I swam 60 laps straight, now grant it I swam some on
my back and did the break stroke but nonetheless I kept going. I couldn't believe it...I think I was kind of tired and just got into this groove and low
and behold kept going. It wasn't a pretty stroke but I just found myself leaning my head on my arm when I would lift it to breathe and it gave me a
little more time to catch a bigger breath. I was talking with Therese (another Edge client) last night at the track and she was telling about the first
time it happened for her and she remembered the date and everything. I think I will write this day down on the calendar too!

Anyway, just wanted to say thanks for all your help so far and I am sooooo excited that it finally clicked!! I bet you would have seen the light bulb
right over my head today!!! I was reading your swim magazine this weekend too, maybe that helped too...whatever, it's working!!! Yippee
Skippee!! Like I said, my form may be ugly, but it worked!
-Deanna Splees, Age Group Triathlete


“Well I 'Escaped from Alcatraz’ yesterday in one piece…all important time was the swim- 35 minutes 37 seconds.  That was quicker than the 39
minutes in the 1.2m at Wildflower & Alcatraz was a longer swim at 1.5miles. Kept reaching out & pulling back, and made sure to finish my
stroke! Thanks Cristin - I'll be in touch about another lesson soon. Thanks again Coach,
-Lochlainn O’Shea, Age Group Triathlete

“…The triathlon clinic was extremely useful. It helped me decide to go into training for my first triathlon. I know without doing the clinic I would not
have made this decision.  I found the coaching style perfect for me, which is part of the reason I decided to go into training.  With all the
introductions to the process of doing a triathlon, I have a feel for what to expect and will be better prepared for my first triathlon. I can't say that
there was one thing I liked better than the other. It was very informative and was a motivating factor in my decision to expand my whole training
program. It really was great.
-Therese Martin, Age Group Triathlete

“Just wanted to drop you a note thanking you for a great swim instruction yesterday. We (Westley Koenen, Chip Scovic, Brendon Lawry, Bret
Tucker) all thought it was an excellent use of time and will be inherently valuable move forward in our training. Good luck this weekend!”
-West Koenen, Age Group Triathlete & Swimmer

"Amy Rasbach here, your 4 pm a few Fridays ago at Aquatic Park. Wanted to let you know how much you helped my swimming. Incredible!  ...
Thank you so much!  It has all really helped my stroke and I really enjoy swimming now.  Anything you can do for the bike?  It's now my least
favorite."
-Amy Rasbach, Age Group Triathlete


“I found the triathlon clinic offered by Cristin Reichmuth at Gilroy Health and Fitness to be very helpful. Cristin’s coaching style is awesome. I
really liked the way she motivated us. She is very positive and helpful in improving technique. I believe I will be better prepared for my first
triathlon. I can't wait for it.  If I had a friend interested in this kind of thing I would definitely recommend it. I think it was one of the coolest clinics I
have taken.  Thank you so much!”
-Jamie Sergi, Water Polo Player, Swimmer, Age Group Triathlete

"I attended one of your classes in Burlingame a couple of months ago.  ...Just wanted to drop you a note to say that I believe that your lessons
really paid off. I swam in Sentinel this weekend and was one of the first 10 out of the water in the 30 - 39 age group.  I didn't get my swim split,
but my wife informs me I was well inside 20 minutes.  After attending your class I had a cycling accident.  I only got back swimming a couple of
weeks ago and really started concentrating on stretching out my stroke.  I believe that wearing a wetsuit assists in keeping your leading arm
high in the water, therefore improving performance. BTW, fantastic results at Pacific Grove and Sentinel.  I'm extremely impressed."
-Ray McArdle, Age Group Triathlete

“I found the Gilroy Health and Fitness Triathlon Clinic very helpful, in fact it was just the boost I needed to get working seriously on my goal of
competing in a triathlon.  The clinic was a great comprehensive introduction to triathlon.  The coach, Cristin Reichmuth, was terrific.  She was
knowledgeable, professional and geared the training to be specific and helpful to all members of the clinic with our different strengths,
weaknesses, and skill levels.  She not only provided the direct coaching during the clinic, she also provided great written materials pertaining to
each training session to expand the learning.  In fact, I felt confident and comfortable enough with Cristin after the clinic to sign on for additional
coaching.  I felt I received a great deal of knowledge about triathlon during the clinic and would go into my first triathlon feeling far more confident
than if I had not participated in the training.  I would say the clinic is a must for a person looking for a positive first triathlon experience, but it
would also be great for someone who has done triathlons and is looking for those techniques that will give them an edge.  I would highly
recommend the clinic to a friend. My favorite portion of the clinic was the last day when we did a complete trial run - swim, bike, run, with the
chance to practice transitions.  Cristin had us pack our bag for a triathlon, then we laid everything out as it would be at a race, then did the
practice race.  This day gave us a great chance to practice and she shared lots of great tips on ways to shorten transitions and make them
more comfortable.  There was no least favorite portion - all of the time in the clinic was well spent.”
-Kathleen Childers, Age Group Triathlete

"I wanted to thank you both for the advice you had given me leading up to this event. My work situation and family responsibilities cut into my
training time more than I had expected. But nevertheless, I was in decent enough shape to finish this event and had a great time doing it- my
first triathlon of any length!  My enthusiasm is high and my goals for 2004 is to do the California Triple Crown (Three Double Centuries), a Half-
Ironman and improve my time in the Treasure Island Olympic Triathlon. I just have to be diligent and creative in how I fit in my training schedule."
-Ben Barbante, Age Group Triathlete