The main problem for adults starting sports is time. A coach is essential.

Contents:

• "My leg just broke, like a broiler chicken's, under its own weight"
• "You have a 20-year-old in your head, but in reality you're a sack"
• "I didn't have any messianic ambitions to make Russians healthier": how Alexey opened a franchise running school
• "Triathlon is the pinnacle of human self-knowledge"

Alexey Fomin is a talented journalist, successful businessman, and avid athlete. After finishing his career in journalism, he founded his own business, which he is actively developing. Since 2015, Alexey has immersed himself in amateur sports and shares his experience with others. His athletic career began with running, then moved on to triathlon and cycling. Alexey has completed marathons in New York and Moscow, and has also won numerous Ironstar triathlons and Gran Fondo cycling races. In addition to his athletic achievements, Alexey opened a franchise branch of the I Love Supersport sports school in Zhukovsky, where he trains and inspires active lifestyle enthusiasts.

Alexey shared his thoughts and experiences. He emphasized the importance of open communication and the exchange of ideas. He believes this helps not only in the professional sphere but also in one's personal life. He emphasized that everyone has the right to their own opinion, and it is important to respect different points of view. Alexey also shared examples from his own life that confirm how constructive dialogue can lead to new opportunities and mutual understanding. In conclusion, he added that the desire for self-improvement and the willingness to listen to others are key factors for success in any field.

• how a broken leg influenced the desire to run;
• about his first wild training sessions;
• why sports schools are not a business, but a mission;
• about the benefits of the I Love Supersport system;
• about how sports in adulthood change lives.

“My leg just broke, like a broiler chicken’s, under its own weight”

Alexey, tell us about your life before sports became a part of your existence. What activities or hobbies took up your time? What were your dreams and goals before you discovered the world of sports?

After serving in the Northern Fleet, I began a career in journalism. After seeing a job posting in MK, I decided to give it a try and applied. I wrote a Saturday crime column called "Chronicle of Incidents." Over time, I rose to the position of editor-in-chief, after which I moved to television. I concluded this stage of my career by becoming the general producer of one of the federal channels.

I founded a small communications agency, which is still successfully operating today. We help clients establish connections with the external environment and effectively promote their products. Our team uses modern methods, including social media, video content, and media publications, to ensure maximum visibility and reach for our clients in the market.

You started playing sports in adulthood. What prompted this passion?

At 47, I faced a serious weight problem, reaching 134 kilograms at a height of 193 centimeters. Carrying that much weight was a real challenge.

My friends and I used to have an interesting challenge – we would seek out weird and creepy places to hang out and have fun. After one of those parties, I found myself in an unpleasant situation: I lost my phone and got injured – I broke my leg. This experience became a lesson for me, reminding me that fun can sometimes turn into trouble.

What happened?

I can’t say exactly what happened, but my leg broke under its own weight, like a broiler chicken’s. While I had a cast, I spent time on social media. There, I saw photos and videos of friends running and winning medals. This made an impression on me, and I decided to start a new life.

One day, a girl told me about the I Love Supersport school chain. What’s unique about their training is that each student sets specific goals, for example, to run a half marathon in a few months. All training programs are designed to achieve these goals, ensuring an effective and targeted approach to training.

We aim for victory straight away.

Participation in the Beaujolais Run requires running a set distance. While winning this competition is unlikely due to the large number of participants, this doesn't eliminate the opportunity to demonstrate your strengths and improve your results. I liked the idea and decided to sign up for a running school to start training and prepare for the Beaujolais race.

This event takes place in France every year. Participants wear extravagant costumes and run along a route lined with tables offering a variety of food, water, and famous French wine. This is not only a sporting event but also a celebration that brings people together, creating a unique atmosphere of fun and fellowship.

Running through picturesque surroundings and enjoying a glass of Beaujolais, you can truly appreciate the beauty of the vineyards. The surrounding nature creates a unique atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy not only the taste of the wine but also the splendor of the landscape. The vineyards, spread out across the vast expanses, attract attention with their charm and harmony. Each run becomes not just physical activity but a true journey through the world of wine and nature.

"In your head you're a 20-year-old, but in reality you're a sack."

Preparation always requires significant effort. Every stage of the process requires attention and diligence. It's important to take the time to plan, research, and practice. Thorough preparation not only helps you gain knowledge but also boosts your confidence. So, despite the challenges, self-improvement always pays off.

The first two workouts were a real challenge. I was out of breath, exhausted, and confused. I couldn't understand what was happening to me. I still had the 20-year-old me who served in the Navy in my head, and it seemed like I hadn't changed. But in reality, I felt completely different. This dissonance shatters my usual self-perception. Suddenly, I realized how much I had neglected my physical fitness.

Have you achieved success?

The intense physical exertion caused me to develop ligament inflammation, but despite this, I was able to prepare for and run the half marathon. Although I moved slowly, I finished the distance. In the preparation process, I lost 17 kilograms, and throughout this entire process, I lost the same amount.

Imagine what it's like to carry weights and then let them go. That feeling of lightness is truly euphoric. The process of releasing the load not only makes things easier physically, but also brings emotional satisfaction. The feeling of freedom and ease experienced after a kettlebell workout can be a powerful motivator to achieve new fitness goals and improve your overall well-being.

I didn't drink wine during the race, but after the finish, when they awarded me a bottle of wine instead of a medal, I decided to savor the moment. Only one thought was running through my head: "I ran! I'm an athlete, I did well!" This experience was not only a physical achievement but also a reason to celebrate my successes with a glass of my signature drink.

Many people have difficulty breaking old habits and often return to them. What is your experience with this?

I can't say that this is true for me. I was afraid of losing the state I had achieved. It's easy to get off track, but when you find yourself in a healthy community, staying on course becomes much easier. I Love Supersport offers not only running but also a variety of other disciplines, such as swimming. Joining these groups provides support and motivation, which helps you achieve your fitness goals and improve your health.

You come to a training session and hear someone share their achievements, such as running a marathon or planning to swim the Bosphorus. This inspires and motivates you to reach new fitness goals. Such success stories remind you that physical activity and determination can significantly change your life. Hearing about other people's triumphs can be a powerful incentive for your own growth and development in sports.

When you set a goal, it's important to develop a clear action plan to successfully reach the finish line. Start by analyzing your goal: clarify what exactly you want to achieve and what steps are needed to get there. Then, break your larger goal into smaller, achievable tasks to help you stay motivated and track your progress. Regularly review and adjust your plan to accommodate any challenges or changes. Don't forget the importance of self-analysis and reflection to understand what's working and what needs improvement. A systematic approach and persistence will help you confidently move toward your goal.

The program has a unique advantage: it sets a clear goal, which makes your intentions serious. You purchase tickets, register for the race, and pay for your participation in advance. This creates additional financial motivation. Furthermore, you become part of a team of like-minded participants striving for change. Girls and guys, everyone is working hard, and you don't have the opportunity to retreat or give up.

Still, don't you want to go back to your normal life?

It's really scary to turn back. After losing 34 kilograms, there is a desire to maintain the new state. You don't want to return to your old self, so you make every effort to maintain the results you've achieved. In this process, it's important to realize that you're starting to like yourself, both internally and externally, and not just others. This renewed self-perception becomes a powerful motivation for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and preventing a return to old habits.

Have old friends been holding you back?

The communications ecosystem has undergone significant changes. Old friends are being replaced by people with shared interests who inspire and motivate. A striking example of this is our community member Vasily Mozzhukhin, who successfully swam the English Channel. This experience underscores the importance of new connections and interactions in the modern world, where like-minded people become key figures in our development.

He spent a whole year preparing for this. To get used to the cold water, he even turned off the hot water tap in his house.

"I didn't have any messianic ambitions to improve the health of Russians": how Alexey opened a running school under a franchise

Were you so inspired by the idea of ​​running that you decided to open your own running school in Zhukovsky?

I lived near Zhukovsky and commuted to Krylatskoye for training. The journey took two hours each way, which was extremely tiring. To save time and maintain my motivation for running, I decided to open a branch by purchasing a franchise from I Love Supersport. This decision allowed me not only to practice my favorite sport but also to find good coaches and a stadium. As a result, I was able to gather a group of students who share my passion for running.

Did you cover all the expenses yourself?

I was running a core business and used its income to open a school.

Promotion can be quite a challenge, especially in a highly competitive market. The process requires not only time but also careful planning and the skillful use of various promotion strategies. It is important to consider the target audience and select the appropriate promotion channels to achieve maximum effectiveness. The right combination of SEO, content marketing, and social media can significantly facilitate this process and help ensure successful promotion.

When purchasing a franchise of a popular and well-known sports school, significant promotional efforts were not required. The main tool in this case was targeted advertising on social media, which effectively attracted the target audience and ensured a steady flow of clients.

To successfully motivate the team and clients, it is necessary to create an atmosphere conducive to productivity and engagement. It is important to set clear goals and objectives that are understandable to all participants in the process. Regular communication and feedback help maintain a high level of motivation. Using various incentives, such as bonuses, recognition of achievements, and opportunities for professional development, also plays a key role.

Customers should feel important and receive value from their interactions with the company. Providing high-quality service, a personalized approach, and attention to customer needs contribute to the formation of long-term relationships. It is important to regularly inform clients about the company's news and achievements to maintain their interest and engagement. Thus, creating an effective motivation system for the team and clients helps achieve goals and strengthen our market position.

When launching the running school, I gathered a group of people and prepared a presentation to demonstrate what an exciting hobby running is. I shared information about the opportunities this activity opens, including the opportunity to travel around the world. I mentioned receiving the "cog" medal, which is awarded for participation in six major marathons: London, Boston, Berlin, Chicago, New York, and Tokyo. I also shared my personal story, which inspired many aspiring runners.

I didn't really intend to work on improving the health of Russians, but it all happened naturally.

Did you expect your business to be profitable, or did you start it purely for inspiration?

In small towns, it's hard to call this a real business. More like missionary work. We jokingly call our school a cult. The financial profit is barely enough to cover the rental of the treadmills and indoor arena, as well as the coaches' salaries. This type of business has low margins, but in return offers a high level of peace of mind and the satisfaction of doing something useful for people.

Since our school's inception, we've taught over 500 people the art of running. We've employed numerous creative approaches and ideas to make the learning process engaging. The New Year's "Promise Run" was especially memorable, becoming my favorite event. This race not only motivates participants to be physically active, but also inspires them to achieve their goals in the new year.

Did they really run on New Year's?

On January 1st, people instead of Instead of sobering up and finishing off stale New Year's salads, people came for a run. This became a tradition for many, with participants writing down their resolutions and goals for the New Year in advance. Among the runners was Olympic champion and former head coach of the Russian national track and field team, Yuri Borzakovsky. This approach to the beginning of the year inspires active change and helps set important life goals.

A large number of people came to the New Year's celebration of sobriety. This event brought together participants seeking to celebrate the holiday without alcohol, creating an atmosphere of fun and support. The tradition of holding such meetings is becoming increasingly popular, attracting people who choose a healthy lifestyle and want to enjoy the holiday in a sober environment.

In 2015, when we first started, there were only 7-8 of us. However, three years later, our community has grown to about 200 participants, making the event almost a citywide one. Unfortunately, the Zhukovsky branch didn't survive the pandemic, but many of those who were committed to developing their skills were able to maintain their love of running and continue to train independently. I Love Supersport continues to thrive in Moscow and other large cities. Are you planning to restore the old school or open a new educational institution? I don't see much point in that. I currently live in Moscow, where the largest school in the world, ILS, is located. There are also many other educational institutions in the city that are also striving to gain a competitive foothold in the educational market. While it's true that it's easier to engage in sports in large cities, a number of measures must be taken to improve the level of physical fitness in the regions. First, we need to invest in infrastructure: build modern sports complexes and facilities that are accessible to all residents. Second, it's important to develop programs for organizing mass sporting events, such as tournaments and festivals, to attract attention to sports and motivate the population to engage in physical activity. In addition, it is necessary to implement educational initiatives aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle and physical activity among young people. It is also worth considering the possibility of creating a support system for coaches and sports clubs to ensure access to quality training for everyone.

Interest in sports can and should be revived through the creation of infrastructure, primarily outdoors. This includes parks, embankments, bike paths, and clean bodies of water. It is also important for city administrations to demonstrate loyalty to the organization of sporting events, such as mass starts. Supporting such initiatives promotes an active lifestyle, improves public health, and creates a positive image of the city. The development of sports infrastructure attracts the attention of both local residents and tourists, which contributes to the economic growth of the region.

"Triathlon is the pinnacle of human self-knowledge"

The effectiveness of the chosen training model lies in its ability to adapt to the individual needs and goals of each athlete. This model takes into account physical fitness, experience level, and specific goals, whether improving endurance, strength, or flexibility. Through a variety of training methods, this model avoids progress plateaus and increases motivation. Another important aspect is the integration of recovery periods, which helps reduce the risk of injury and improve overall fitness. Consequently, a targeted approach to training ensures greater results and sustainable progress in athletic activity. A key aspect of success is having like-minded people who support you from the very beginning. First, you run a 10-kilometer run, then a half marathon, and then a marathon—a consistent path to achieving athletic results. I Love Supersport founders Maxim Zhurilo, Irina Moskovkina, and Vladimir Pasekunov developed a unique sports school model for adults, thereby creating new opportunities for amateur sports in the country. I Love Supersport has dozens of branches both in Russia and abroad and has inspired hundreds of followers who have begun using a similar model. Thanks to ILS, tens of thousands of people have dramatically changed their lives, improving their physical fitness and reaching new heights in sports.

Pandora's box is a term used to describe a situation in which discovering something can lead to unpredictable and often negative consequences. In ancient Greek mythology, Pandora, the first woman, was endowed with many gifts, including curiosity. When she opened the box filled with troubles and misfortunes, she released them into the world, leaving only hope inside. This symbolizes how one careless action can trigger a chain of destructive events. Pandora's box has become a metaphor for various situations in life, where risk and consequences open up new, sometimes unwanted, opportunities.

It's an exciting hobby that makes you want to reach ever greater heights. After I mastered running, I wanted to try swimming. I started training and swam across the Volga. Along with running and swimming, I discovered triathlon—I learned to ride a road bike and have been cycling for four years now. After my first bike race, I realized that a 42km running marathon seemed like a cakewalk compared to these new challenges. Triathlon is a unique challenge that fosters deep self-discovery. It's a multifaceted sport that includes swimming, cycling, and running, requiring participants to demonstrate not only physical fitness but also mental fortitude. Participating in triathlon helps people overcome their own limitations, develop self-confidence, and find harmony between body and mind. Each competition becomes an opportunity for personal growth and self-improvement, allowing participants to discover new horizons and learn more about themselves. Triathlon is not just a sport, it is a path to understanding your capabilities and inner resources.

For those who want to start playing sports, in particular running, it is recommended to begin by defining their goals. Determine why you want to start running: to improve your health, lose weight, or participate in competitions. Then choose the right shoes and clothing to ensure comfort during training. Start with short distances and gradually increase the volume of runs to avoid injury. It is also important to establish a regular training schedule and monitor your well-being. Don't forget to warm up before and cool down after your run to prepare your muscles and avoid overexertion. Incorporating variety into your workouts, such as changing routes or adding interval runs, will help maintain interest and motivation. Don't forget about proper nutrition and hydration, as they play a key role in the success of your workouts.

The first piece of advice is to enroll in a running school. Professional coaches at these institutions will help you master proper running technique. This will significantly improve your results and reduce the risk of injury. Training at a running school will give you the confidence and motivation to train regularly, as well as the opportunity to connect with like-minded people.

Undoubtedly, training plays a key role in achieving success in any field. Continuously developing skills and acquiring new knowledge allows you to adapt to changes and improve your competitiveness. In today's world, where information is updated rapidly, continuous learning is becoming a necessity. Therefore, it is important to approach the learning process consciously, choosing relevant courses and resources that align with your goals and interests.

If you simply put on your running shoes and start running, there is a high probability that you will not do it again. This happens because you do not monitor your heart rate and do not know the proper running technique. As a result, you risk injury, and the training will not benefit you. Swimming is similar: you need to complete school training, master the technique, and set goals. After that, you can move on to cycling, and then triathlon, which will open new horizons in your athletic life. School is an important part of the educational process. It provides the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary for further learning and development. Without school, it is impossible to obtain a basic education, which opens doors to many future opportunities. School develops critical thinking, social skills, and self-confidence, making it indispensable in every person's life. Thus, schooling plays a key role in preparing for adulthood and a successful career. Discipline and an experienced coach are key to achieving success. However, the greatest difficulty is overcoming one's own barriers. This applies not only to athletic achievements but to life in general. The main problem for a person seeking self-change at an age when they are already consciously perceiving the world is internal resistance and fear of change. This process requires not only effort, but also deep self-knowledge and a willingness to change.

Time is a key category that determines the order of events and their duration. It influences all aspects of our lives, from organizing our workday to planning long-term goals. Understanding time allows us to effectively manage resources, set priorities, and achieve desired results. In today's world, where the speed of information and the pace of life are constantly increasing, the importance of correctly understanding time is especially relevant. Optimizing time use contributes to increased productivity and a better quality of life.

Exactly. This process cannot be accomplished without outside help. A clear plan, as well as supervision and mentoring, are essential. These functions are effectively fulfilled by a sports school aimed at adults. It adapts to the individual regimen of each client. Coordinators create a flexible training schedule that can easily be adjusted to any schedule, thereby ensuring maximum effectiveness and comfort for athletes.

The key factors for success are desire and determination. When you have a clear goal with a specific start date, you can structure your life to minimize losses and maximize opportunities. Proper planning allows you to move toward your goal with confidence and effectiveness. The most important thing I took away from my transformation and sports was the understanding of the power of discipline and perseverance. Sports taught me to set goals and achieve them, even when it requires significant effort. I realized that physical activity not only strengthens the body but also develops mental fortitude. These skills transferred to other areas of life, helping me cope with difficulties and achieve success in my personal and professional endeavors. The importance of a healthy lifestyle also became clear to me, as regular exercise and proper nutrition contribute to an improved psycho-emotional state and an overall higher quality of life. Sports does not guarantee a better life or success, but in adulthood, it can radically change your existence. Life changes: your social circle changes, new hobbies appear, and your approach to nutrition and leisure activities changes. Sports effectively help manage stress and improve physical fitness, while also developing patience and strengthening nerves. As a result, tackling other challenges becomes easier and more accessible.

There is a problem associated with injuries. Injuries can occur as a result of various factors, including physical activity, accidents, or inadequate safety precautions. This can lead to serious consequences for both a person's health and their future physical activity. Injury prevention and proper rehabilitation play a key role in maintaining health and quality of life. It is important to understand the risks and take measures to minimize them to avoid long-term consequences.

Sport, especially during competition, can have negative consequences. It must be approached wisely. However, when you climb the 10th floor without feeling tired and surprise the doctors with a stable heart rate, you feel young and full of energy. Sport gives you a feeling of youth and energy. Fitness is a great alternative to traditional sports, but it may not be for everyone, as many find it tiring and boring. It's important to find a balance and choose an activity that brings you both enjoyment and benefits, whether it's sports or fitness.

Your athletic career is just beginning, but you've already achieved significant success and tried your hand at a variety of disciplines. What are your plans for the future?

After achieving success in running, swimming, and triathlon, I chose cycling as my main activity. This sport is one of the most challenging and demanding. In the summer, I prefer to train on the road, and in the winter, on the track. Cycling not only develops endurance but also strengthens muscles, making it an ideal choice for an active lifestyle.

I'm actively developing my cycling skills, training 3-5 times a week and competing with my team. For now, this is enough to achieve my goals. However, in the future, I am open to new challenges and opportunities.