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Fresh off my first HYROX experience in Bangkok, I'm sharing the highs, lows, lessons, and surprises from race day. From the atmosphere and race strategy to the stations that broke me and the moments that kept me moving, this is an honest reflection on what it was really like to compete in my first HYROX event. I discuss the biggest mistakes I made, what I learned about pacing, why being strategic matters more than simply being fit, and how HYROX compares to my background in endurance sports. And despite crossing the finish line exhausted, sore, and questioning my life choices, I somehow found myself signing up for another race before I'd even fully recovered. In this episode: Why I decided to do HYROXRace-day nerves and the Bangkok atmosphereThe stations that challenged me mostLessons on pacing and race strategyWhat surprised me about HYROXBiggest mistakes and takeawaysWhy I immediately signed up for another raceAdvice for anyone considering their first HYROXIf you've ever finished a race and said, "Never again," only to find yourself entering another one a few days later, this episode is for you. 📩 Email: [email protected] 📷 Instagram: @aidoalan 📊 Strava: Adrian on Strava 📘 Facebook: Adrian on Facebook

Finally the time has come to give my first HYROX a CRAIC!! Race week is here, and it’s time to find out where I really stand. In this episode, I break down my first ever HYROX race in Bangkok, how I’m feeling heading into it, what I’ve learned in training, and most importantly… my prediction. I dive into: My expected finish timeWhere I think I’ll perform wellThe stations that could make or break my raceMistakes I’m trying to avoidAnd what success actually looks like for me on the dayThis isn’t about being perfect, it’s about showing up, testing myself, and seeing what happens when training meets reality. Whether you’re racing HYROX, thinking about it, or just enjoy the process of pushing limits, this one’s for you. Let’s see if I’m right… 📲 Follow & Connect:📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidoalan📊 Strava: https://www.strava.com/athletes/1686155 📩 Coaching & Enquiries:[email protected]

Most people know their goals. Very few know their values. In this episode of The GymCraic Podcast, I go into the idea of living according to your values and why it’s one of the most important things i think i can do for longterm fulfilment. I break down the four values im trying to guide my life right now, freedom, health, connection, and creativity and how they influence everything from the way I train, to the work I do, to the relationships I build. But I also talk honestly about the fact that right now I’m not fully living in alignment with all of these values as of right now . Like most people, I sometimes drift away from what truly matters. This episode is about recognising that, reflecting on where I’m at and consciously redirecting myself back toward the life I actually want to build. Sometimes we chase achievements without asking if they truly matter to us. This conversation is about stepping back, getting clear on what you stand for, and making sure the life you're building actually reflects it. Keywords: personal growth, endurance mindset, values, self-development, life direction. Listen to The GymCraic Podcast: 🎧 Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/the-gymcraic-podcast 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-gymcraic-podcast/id1580946939 Follow Adrian:📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidoalan/ 📊 Strava: https://strava.app.link/l85uCUtvTLb 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aidoalan1

Welcome back to The GymCraic Podcast. Today’s episode is all about one thing: becoming a high performer in 2026. Over the past few days, I’ve just come out of a powerful two-day goal setting workshop, where I sought guidance from The Mindset Mentor, Rob Dial. And in this episode, I want to reshare what I’ve learned, what challenged me, and what genuinely shifted how I see discipline, identity, and growth. Because high performance isn’t about motivation.It isn’t about hype.And it definitely isn’t about perfection. High performance is about goal setting with intention.It’s about discipline as the highest form of self-love.Choosing your future self over your current comfort. It’s about identity.Belief.Action.Repeat. Who you believe you are shapes what you do.What you do shapes who you become. We’ll talk about finding your why, building goals that actually stick, and even strengthening something called the anterior mid cingulate cortex, the part of the brain responsible for doing hard things when you don’t feel like it. So if you’re ready to stop drifting…If you’re ready to stop negotiating with your potential…And if 2026 is the year you decide to show up differently… This episode is for you. 📩 Email: [email protected] 📷 Instagram: @aidoalan 📊 Strava: Adrian on Strava 📘 Facebook: Adrian on Facebook

Now just felt like the right time to try and speak about the last 5 months since my mom Catherine Allen has passed away in July after a year long battle with cancer. A tough topic but this is life. Over the past while life changed in a way I never really knew how to prepare for my mom passing away. In between life has been hectic and im trying to find stability once again. I didn’t want to record this straight away, and I also didn’t want to avoid it completely. So this isn’t a polished episode or one with answers. It’s just me being honest about what the last few months and what moms final weeks with us were like for everyone , what I’ve leaned on, what’s helped a in the "emotional moments" that have happened since. If you’re listening and you’ve been through loss or you’re in it right now this isn’t advice. It’s simply my lived experience, shared in real time to a certain extent. And if you haven’t experienced something like this yet, maybe this is just a reminder to slow down, check in, and appreciate the people you still get to call today. So yeah… this is me, talking about one of the hardest topics ill ever have to share but maybe it helps me and everyone else going through tough times.

🎙 Episode 55 – Why I Started, What I’ve Learned, and Where It’s Going From recording solo in my bedroom to chatting with ultrarunners, mindset coaches, triathletes and everyday legends — this podcast has taken me on a journey. In this milestone episode, I’m reflecting on the 10 biggest lessons I’ve learned across 50 episodes. From awkward beginnings to honest conversations, it’s all shaped the GymCraic podcast into what it is today. No studio. No editing. No script. Just a mic, a message, and the belief that if one person gets value, it’s worth it. Whether you’ve been here since episode 1 or just jumped in along the way, Here's to growth, gratitude, and showing up — even when it’s messy. 📩 Email: [email protected] 📷 Instagram: @aidoalan 📊 Strava: Adrian on Strava 📘 Facebook: Adrian on Facebook

In this episode, I sit down with Gráinne—an Ironman athlete, proud Donegal native, and all-round legend whose endurance journey has taken her from the GAA fields of Ireland to the finish line at the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii. We chat about life before triathlon, growing up in rural Ireland, the move to Australia, and how she found her way into the world of Ironman. Gráinne opens up about the early fears of swim-bike-run, the power of community through Districts GAA in Perth, and how she balances full-time work with full-time training. From mistakes made on race day to her recent injury setback, to training as a female athlete in a male-dominated space—this is a raw, real, and incredibly inspiring conversation about resilience, identity, and chasing big goals no matter where you start. Whether you're a seasoned triathlete or just curious about what drives someone to race an Ironman, Gráinne’s story will leave you feeling energised and uplifted. Find Grainne here: 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gbyrneit?igsh=dWQ2dHZkdDBqdTBp https://www.instagram.com/diaryofanironwoman?igsh=MWd3d3l4OWg2d3R3Ng== 📘 Facebook: 📩 Email: [email protected] 📷 Instagram: @aidoalan 📊 Strava: Adrian on Strava 📘 Facebook: Adrian on Facebook

Finally i got the gang together you've heard from Danny OSullivan & Denis Mc before their back again to share some more knowledge but now i get to introduce you to the man who planted the seed in all of our heads and that man is David Spring and his journey to becoming a 4 time ironman. In this episode of The GymCraic Podcast, I’m joined by three legends from home in Kerry — each with unique backgrounds, busy lives, and a shared goal: to hear the words, "You are an Ironman." We dive into what inspired them to sign up, how their goals evolved, and what they learned along the way. We talk motivation, mindset, and the real challenges behind the training — from balancing work and family to dealing with setbacks. You'll hear honest stories of mistakes, breakthroughs, and what it actually feels like to toe the start line of one of the toughest endurance events in the world. From race day highs and nutrition wins to emotional finish lines and valuable lessons, this episode is packed with insights for anyone thinking about doing an Ironman — or just curious about what it takes. Plus, we wrap up with a look ahead to their next big goal: a charity project close to their hearts.

In Episode 52 of The Gym-Craic Podcast I’m absolutely delighted to finally be joined by Aaron O’Loughlin.  A name you’ll hear more of in both the running and Hyrox scenes. I first met Aaron at Fitstop over two years ago, and since then, he’s been smashing goals in every direction  In this episode, we dive deep into his journey: From sub-3 heartbreak to redemption in the Busso marathon 1 year apartTackling Herdy’s Backyard Ultra and what 24 hours of loops does to your body and mindHow Hyrox entered the picture and changed the training gameFinding his doubles partner Annie Busiko and building trust, teamwork, and pacing strategyThe art of balancing fatherhood, full-time work, and elite-level trainingHis training crew at Dubbell Run Group and the role of community in trainingWhat motivates him to get out the door at 4am, and how he keeps the fire lit Aaron is proof that with hard work, a solidroutine, and good people around you, anything’s possible. Whether you're chasing PBs, thinking about your first Hyrox, or curious what it takes to train like a absolute beast while being a full-time legend  this one’s for you. Follow Aaron On Strava https://strava.app.link/UYUGxgRQDSb 📩 Email: [email protected] 📷 Instagram: @aidoalan 📊 Strava: Adrian on Strava 📘 Facebook: Adrian on Facebook

🎙️ Episode 51- Returning to Perth – Rebuilding Routine & Returning to NormalityAfter 10 weeks in Ireland, I’m back in Perth—and in this episode of The GymCraic Podcast, I chat about the transition back into life, re-establishing routine, and how it feels coming home after a meaningful time away. It was a tough decision to come back and life unfortunately was never said to be easy. Topics I cover:The emotional shift of leaving IrelandGetting back into training, coaching, and work at the minesWhat I’m bringing back from Ireland—routines, habits, and perspectiveThe mental adjustment to a different pace of lifeHow I’m approaching the next block of training, coaching, and contentIf you’ve ever returned from a trip that changed your rhythm, this episode might hit home. It’s about more than just coming back—it’s about reintegration, balance, and using the experience to grow, not regress.Email: [email protected] 📷 Instagram: @aidoalan 📊 Strava: Adrian on Strava 📘 Facebook: Adrian on Facebook

Your Ultimate Guide to Dominating Hyrox on Race Day" Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just discovering the world of fitness racing, this episode has everything you need to crush your next Hyrox event! Join us as we break down what Hyrox is all about, where it originated, and why it’s taking the fitness world by storm. We’ll dive deep into the signature Hyrox workout, explore effective training strategies to build strength and endurance, and reveal the three biggest mistakes competitors make—and how to avoid them. Plus, get practical tips for race day preparation, from nutrition to mental tactics that will keep you going strong. Tune in, get motivated, and gear up to dominate your next Hyrox race! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me through the links below: Email: [email protected] Adrian on Instagram:⁠https://www.instagram.com/aidoalan/ Adrian on Strava:⁠https://strava.app.link/l85uCUtvTLb⁠ Adrian on Facebook:⁠https://www.facebook.com/aidoalan1⁠

Time to kick social media in the d1ck for 100 days and heres what i want to achieve from it.1. More Free TimeWithout constant scrolling, you’ll have more time for hobbies, exercise, reading, and meaningful activities.2. Better Mental HealthSocial media can contribute to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Removing it reduces comparison and stress.3. Improved Focus & ProductivitySocial media is a major distraction. Without it, you can concentrate better on work, studies, and personal goals.4. Stronger Real-Life RelationshipsYou’ll spend more quality time with family and friends instead of engaging in shallow online interactions.5. Better SleepLate-night scrolling disrupts sleep patterns. Without social media, you’ll likely sleep earlier and more soundly.6. Less Comparison & More ConfidenceSocial media creates unrealistic standards. Removing it helps you focus on your own journey without unhealthy comparisons.7. Less Social PressureYou won’t feel obligated to post updates, reply instantly, or maintain an online persona, reducing unnecessary stress.8. Greater Emotional StabilityYou’ll experience fewer emotional ups and downs caused by negative news, arguments, and unrealistic portrayals of life.9. Increased CreativityWith fewer digital distractions, your mind has more space for creative thinking, problem-solving, and innovation.10. Living in the Present MomentWithout constantly documenting everything online, you’ll fully experience and appreciate life as it happens.

Episode 48 with Danny O’Sullivan   Last night I sat down with Danny to have a deeply moving and inspiring conversation. Danny from Tralee Co. Kerry has been an inspiration through his fitness endeavours with running events and most recent completing a sub 10h Ironman in Copenhagen at his first attempt but when you hear his story of what he’s biggest challenges are in life right now it’s sure to inspire many others.  Danny is a father of two wonderful young children who lost their mother Alison to cancer only 4 months ago at the age of only 37 . In the face of this unimaginable grief that no one should go through,  Danny has turned to his training on a day to day basis not to escape but as a way to show up and to navigate his loss, stay strong for his children, and find purpose in the toughest of times. We have a very open an honest conversation around many topics: How Danny has managed to balance training, fatherhood, and griefThe role that health and fitness have played in his healing journeyHis time spent in Perth Australia with AlisonHis football career with Kerins O’Rahillys and KerryHis deeper passion for runningHis experience racing at Ironman Copenhagen What the future holds for himHow he continues to cope with the loss of his wife Danny’s journey is a testament to the fact that endurance isn’t just about sport, it’s about life itself.  If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me through the links below: Adrian on Instagram:⁠https://www.instagram.com/aidoalan/ Adrian on Strava:⁠https://strava.app.link/l85uCUtvTLb⁠ Adrian on Facebook:⁠https://www.facebook.com/aidoalan1⁠ Email:[email protected]

Life is constantly happening around us, and we can only do our best to protect ourselves through it all. I’m back in Ireland once again, and unfortunately, it’s under tough circumstances. My mom isn’t doing well, and it only felt right to come home and be with her and the rest of my family. It’s been five weeks now, and though the situation is challenging, I’ve managed to create a routine and structure to guide me through each day. In this episode, I’ll dive into what life is like for me at the moment and how I’m handling the stressors that come with it. I’ve sought guidance from my good friend Denis Mac to help me stay accountable, keep my strength up in the gym, and support me through this transition. I’m transitioning away from my Ironman training during the off-season, and with my work in FIFO (Fly In Fly Out), my time commitments have been unpredictable. I wasn’t sure how long I’d be in Ireland, so it was important to get extra help and support to stay on track with my health and fitness goals. What I’ll cover in this episode: The current state of my life and how I’m coping with the stress of the situationWorking with Denis and the structures we've put in place to stay focusedOvercoming emotional eating, especially during times of high stressHow I’m managing my calorie intake versus output in training and the importance of balanceFinding gym structure while also keeping in shorter runs to stay activeThe generosity of my good friend Kevin, who kindly gave me a vehicle to useBooks I’m currently reading or listening to, and how they’re helping me growReflecting on the story of Together for Faidh, a beautiful community-driven initiative to support a young girl’s fight against cancerIt’s been a challenging but enlightening time, and I want to share these insights with you, hoping they can offer support, perspective, or simply help you feel less alone in your own journey.

Returning to mining wasn’t something I had planned, but when an old friend reached out last July, everything changed. An unexpected opportunity to work with one of Western Australia’s largest iron ore companies came my way. After navigating the interview process and enduring a few delays, I was offered the position. Between 2011 and 2015, I spent four years on grueling 3-4 week rosters in remote WA, with only one week off at a time. As a 30-year-old single guy back then, I didn’t exactly use that R&R for rest and recovery. This time, things are different. While it’s still early days on-site, I couldn’t pass up this chance. However, I carefully considered how this new FIFO lifestyle might affect my relationships, fitness, and personal goals before jumping back in. In this episode, I’ll dive into: Whether the 8-days-on, 6-days-off roster will improve or challenge my relationship and my lifestyle. What are the short and long term goals with the company. Strategies to stay on track with my fitness goals. Why sometimes you just can’t say no to an opportunity. How I plan to make the most of my week off doing the things I love. If you’ve ever wondered about balancing a FIFO lifestyle with personal goals, relationships, and fitness, this episode is for you. Got questions or feedback? Reach out to me through the links below: Instagram: @aidoalan Strava: Adrian Allen Facebook: Adrian Allen Email: [email protected]